Hello, my name is Jamie Young, and I am the Student Voice Rep for the School of Nursing at the University.
I’m waiting the start of my third year in BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing Practice. I am here to give you some hints and tips about settling into your first year.
Freshers Fair
This is a great event to meet Your SU and Your Societies, Team Sunderland, and businesses from the city with great promotions. If you are walking through the fair, and there is something that catches your eye, have a chat with the staff or students that are running the stand - ask the questions that you're dying to ask – and get involved.
Last year there were some great deals and freebies, including places to eat and drink in Sunderland, including Independent, a venue in the city. Independent are working in partnership with Your Students’ Union to deliver some fantastic events this Freshers, so make sure you check out the full programme at www.sunderlandsu.co.uk/yourfreshers.
Whether you’re interested in getting freebies, making friends, getting involved in activities or societies, this really is a great day out for all new students.
My experience as a local student – places to eat and drink
I grew up in Sunderland and could talk all day about how great some of the places are here. Within the city and along the coast in Roker and Seaburn, we have loads of places to eat and drink, catch up with friends, or even make some new ones.
In the city centre, Port of Call and Gatsbys are good places to go for food and drinks. With their huge menus and accessible location, they represent a good choice for students.
My favourites here are:
- Port of Call (1 Park Lane) - Steak Loaded Fries (Steak cooked rare!)
- Gatsbys (13-14 Derwent Street) - Chicken Carbonara
If you have a bit of time between lectures whilst on St Peter's Campus, why not have a wander up to one of the local cafes, restaurants or bars in Roker with your mates for some dinner.
- The Wolsey (Millem Terrace) - My favourite place to eat in Roker, with daily, weekly specials and a cracking carvery on a Sunday. Are you free on a Thursday night? Head on over for their quiz night (some rounds are paid entry - but cheap). My favourite food here? Thanks for asking! It would have to be a hot beef baguette, every time.
- The Stack (Whitburn Road) - A must-try. With regular live artists and DJs, lots of bars and food vendors; there's something for everyone. Their open rooftop allows the sea air and sun to come through, keeping you fresh while you have some fantastic food, delicious drinks and a cracking catch-up with your friends. My favourite food vendor would be Acropolis with their homemade Greek cuisine. Give their Chicken or Veggie Gyros a try - they're great.
And if you want to try something new, and watch your pennies, you’ve picked the perfect time. 14 to 22 September is Sunderland Restaurant Week, with your chance to try more than 40 local restaurants and cafes at bargain prices: https://sunderlandbid.co.uk/restaurant-week/
Settling into your course in first year
Starting this new milestone in your life can seem daunting, as it can for anyone. Here are my tips to settle in a little easier:
- Attend all your lectures and seminars, especially in the first few weeks of your modules. During these, you'll have time to take part in ice breakers to meet your new course mates and staff.
- Make as many notes regarding your assignments, exams and academic plan as you need to help you feel comfortable with what is yet to come.
- Are you lost on campus? Feel free to ask anyone! Student, or staff, people will be willing to help you to where you need to be. There is plenty of signage to help you, but always ask for help if you need it.
Enjoy yourself and see you around campus! - Jamie