Settling into a new environment can take time. You might feel unsure or worried about some parts of student life, and that’s OK, we've got you!
Study skills & support
Your University Library is here to help you do your best from your first week through to your final assignment. Using a university library is different to other libraries you may have used before. Want some help finding literature for your assignment? Need some reassurance that you are referencing your sources correctly? Unsure how to get started using your library? We know there is a lot to take in, so speak to us if you are feeling a little wobbly.
- Chat with our team at our helpdesks or online
- Sign up for a tour of our libraries
- Join a study skills masterclass
- Book a one-to-one with a study skills advisor or librarian
Making friends
Joining a club through Team Sunderland or a society with Sunderland Students’ Union can help make lifelong friendships.
- Team Sunderland caters for students of all abilities and it’s never too late to join a club. Check out the list of clubs available here.
- CitySpace offers you the perfect opportunity to get involved in physical activity, through our fitness suite and fitness class memberships. You can find their full offer here
- Sunderland Students’ Union societies are also available for students to join throughout the year, find the list of societies here.
Who to talk to
Our Student Support teams are here to help you:
- Speak to the Wellbeing team for mental health support - you can self-refer online
- For those with long-term health, mental health, neurodiversity, hearing and/or visual impairment, mobility issues or Specific Learning Difference (SpLD), book an appointment with our Disability Support team
- Find out how to make money work for you with our Student Financial Guidance team
- Take a look at our overnight wellbeing support service, operating between 6.30pm and 6.30am
- Get involved in our wide range of wellbeing support workshops, activities and friendship evenings
And if you are having more than a wobble and in crisis:
- Reach out to the Crisis team by phone on 0303 123 1145 for support,
- Find out more information on Crisis support online
Still in a wobble?
As the hub for all student enquiries, Gateway Enquiries are best placed to advise and support all students through the university journey whatever your issue. Whether your issue is big or small, quick or complex; The Gateway Enquiries team are here to help. If we can’t help you there and then, before you leave us you will have all the information you need to resolve your enquiry.
- Got a question? It's probably already been answered in our Compass FAQs
- Can't find what you need? Submit an enquiry on Compass
- Download the Compass UoS mobile app on apple or android for access to enquiries at your fingertip
Our final top tips to help you settle into student life
- Learn about student discounts, offers and activities
- Get settled with our welcome hub, including information on opening a bank account, registering with a GP, understanding council tax concessions, and more.
- Our international arrival guide provides information on accommodation, healthcare and managing money. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Get in touch with International Student Support for additional support.