Hello and welcome to the University of Bath from all of us at The Students’ Union!
Starting postgraduate study can feel like a lot. Perhaps you have travelled a long way to come to Bath, with some of you moving from another country. You may miss your friends and family, everything may feel unfamiliar, and you might be worried about adjusting or making new friends.
Let me be the first to reassure you that, although all these feelings are completely valid, you are about to begin a year, or perhaps several years, filled with experiences for the memory book. It may take some time, but you will adjust and make new friends. Being away from home also does not mean that the people you love will stop being part of your life.
There are, however, a few things you can do to make your adjustment to postgraduate life quicker and easier.
1. Make the most of Freshers’ Week
My first tip is to get involved in The SU’s Freshers’ Week. This is when we organise a wide range of events for new students, including departmental mixers, city events, board game sessions, wine tasting and the Freshers’ Fair. You name it, and we are probably doing it!
With around 150 events planned, there should be something for everyone. Attend the events that suit your interests and personality, but also be open to trying something new. These events are a great opportunity to meet other students who, just like you, are looking to make friends and find their place at Bath.
2. Remember that you are not alone
Almost every new student feels the same uncertainty at some point. Even those who appear completely confident may still be wondering whether they will fit in or find their people.
Try to be open and friendly to those around you. Start a conversation with someone in your class, introduce yourself to the person sitting beside you at an event or invite someone for a coffee. Sometimes, one small conversation is all it takes to begin a friendship. You may find that Bath starts to feel like home much sooner than you expected.
3. Join a postgraduate support scheme
Postgraduate students can also benefit from schemes designed to help them settle into university life.
If you are a postgraduate taught student, the PGT Buddy scheme gives you the opportunity to connect with another PGT student and navigate the experience together. It means having someone to talk to who understands what it is like to be a Master’s student at Bath.
For postgraduate research students, the Doctoral Peer Mentor scheme connects you with a current doctoral student. Your mentor can answer questions, share their experiences and support you as you begin your doctoral studies. You do not have to figure everything out by yourself.
4. Ask questions and explore
Bath has so much to offer, and both the University and The SU provide a wide range of services, opportunities and support. However, you may miss out on these if you do not ask questions or explore what is available.
If you are unsure about something, ask. Speak to your department, contact The SU, talk to other students or visit the relevant support service. No question is too small, especially when you are new. The sooner you ask, the sooner you can access the help or information you need.
5. Become a student leader
If you can, consider taking on a student leadership role alongside your studies. It is a brilliant way to develop new skills, gain valuable experience, build your confidence and contribute to the student community.
You could become a Hall Rep, Global Connect Ambassador, Academic Rep, PGT Buddy or Doctoral Rep, among many other opportunities. Try a role that interests you and discover what a fantastic student leader you can be.
6. Find your community
Finally, join the societies and student groups that genuinely interest you. University is about so much more than the degree you leave with. It is also about the communities you become part of, the friendships you build and the experiences you gain along the way.
Give yourself permission to explore, make mistakes, try new things and grow. You do not have to have everything figured out from the beginning.
I am sending you all my best wishes as you experience Bath with new and fresh eyes. Welcome to our community. I hope your postgraduate journey brings you wonderful memories, meaningful friendships and many reasons to call Bath home.