We know that starting at university can be a confusing time, especially now, and so we've compiled answers to some of the most common questions we get around this time of year below!
Questions have been grouped into 3 categories: Freshers, SOAS Students' Union, and Joining SOAS.
If you can't see the answer to a question you have, please feel free to reach out to any member of the SU Staff Team, Co-Presidents, or Officers.
- What is Freshers?
Freshers is a 2 week period at the start of the new academic year where your Students' Union puts on a range of activities to welcome you to university life, introduce you to new people, and give you the opportunity to try new things.
You can find out more about the Freshers events we've got planned here!
- What is Freshers Fayre?
Freshers Fayre is your opportunity to meet our sports teams and societies in person, to find out more about what they do, and to register your interest to get involved.
We'll be hosting Freshers Fayre in person on October 1st for you to come and join any sports teams or socieites you'd like, and we'll be hosting online meet and greet opportunities too. You can find out more about Freshers Fayre and who will be attending here.
- How do I attend Freshers events?
If you see an event you'd like to attend during Freshers...come and join in!
All of our events will say whether they're being held online or in person, and whether or not you need to register to attend. All events are open for all students to attend, so if you see something you're interested in simply turn up!
- How do I join a sports team, society, or campaign?
You can join sports teams and societies in person at the Freshers Fayre, or online by registering on the specific team/societies page.
You can register for campaigns in person at the Campaigns Fayre, or online by emailing the specific campaign to say you'd like to join.
- Will there be online events during Freshers?
Yes!
We're aiming to hold a mix of both in person and online events throughout Freshers so everyone can have the opportunity to get involved. We're also encouraging all of our societies, sports teams and campaigns to do the same, so you should be able to join in no matter where you are!
- Will there be in person sports during Freshers?
Yes!
National regulations currently allow for us to host some in person sporting activities, so keep an eye out for the taster sessions our teams will be hosting across the Freshers period. If you have any questions about sports or the safety measures in place, you can always speak to our Activities & Events Coordinator, Jesse.
- I require assistance attending an event on campus, who should I contact?
SOAS SU is committed to ensuring all of our events are accessible for all students. You can find out more about our Accessibility Measures on our website, or feel free to contact our Activities & Events Coordinator Jesse to find out more information and arrange any assistance you may require.
- How do I make friends at University?
First of all most students are asking the same question and are also looking to meet people and make friends, so don't be shy to go and say hello because most people are trying to find the courage to do the same! We have lots of ways to meet new people at the students' union, get involved with a sports group, join a group that's doing something you're interested in, come along to a network meeting or one of our social events. Turn up at the bar with a tasteful playlist.
- What is SOAS Students' Union?
SOAS Students' Union is a union for the students of SOAS. We're run independently of SOAS itself and we're here to support you throughout your studies, providing support, opportunities, and events.
You can find out more about what we do here.
- How do I join SOAS Students' Union?
Every student at SOAS is automatically a member of SOAS Students' Union, so there's nothing you need to do to!
- Where is SOAS Students' Union?
SOAS Students' Union is located on the ground floor of the Main Building, immediately to the right of the foyer.
Here we have 3 staff / co-president offices, the SU shop (where you can buy food, drink and SOAS merch), the JCR (our open student space), and the SU Bar (located on the lower ground floor, down the stairs in the JCR). We also have the SCR (secior common room) for postgraduate students on the second floor directly above the JCR.
- Can I create my own society / sports team?
Yes, we always welcome students to create their own society or sports team if a similar one doesn't already exist.
To create a new society, contact our Activities & Events Coordinator Jesse, who will be able to talk you through the process.
- I'm having issues with my enrolment, who should I contact?
Enrolment is conducted by SOAS, and the Students' Union are not able to help with this process.
Should you be having any issues with your enrolment you should contact the Students Information Desk or call the Enroment Hotline.
- I'm struggling with starting at university (with mental health or my studies), who can I reach out to?
University can be a difficult time, and it's okay to reach out and ask for help if you need it.
SOAS SU has compiled a list of useful contacts and resources to support you through a variety of Academic and Personal issues that you might experience.
If you'd like to speak with someone, please contact the SU Advice Caseworker Susanna, or the Welfare & Campaigns Co-President Ella who will be able to talk through your potential options and support you.