#StaffsWelcome Top Tips
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Top tips for mature and/or parent students at Staffordshire University
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Comments by Jamie Robertson, Salma Khan and Nat Campbell. Edited by Ela Hollies.
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We spoke to our Mature Student’s Network and some of our parent staff members who gave us their top tips for enhancing your University experience as a mature and/or parent student.
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There’s groups that cater to everyone with our Network (Mature, Parent & Carers) and loads of Clubs & Societies that you can drop in and out of and that are focused on interests and activities for all.
Sports teams see each other every week, but for students that aren’t able to commit as much time outside of their studies Networks exist to make it easier to connect students with similar backgrounds and interests. Joining the Network Facebook group is an easy way to keep up with what’s going on with more relevant information for you.
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2. FIND OUT WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THE STUDENTS' UNION
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The Union offers flexible employment around your studies and other commitments. You can develop your skills and employability, represent your peers, volunteer or just find out what’s available in the local area.
“Often people only see Students’ Unions as night-time events and clubs & societies, there’s so much more… FoodHub, the Advice Centre etc. These are all things that anybody could use at any time. And by far the best thing… you’re a member and can shape it. If you think something should change, talk to the Union and we’ll support you to make it happen.”
Jamie Robertson, Student Voice Manager
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3. IT’S YOUR CAMPUS – SHARE IT WITH YOUR FAMILY
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Campus venues, like Ember, Verve & Squeezebox, are all family-friendly, with children’s menus on offer. The Union venues are open to students with children until 7pm*. You’re welcome to breastfeed, heat up any food/drinks for no cost, and there are changing facilities available in the toilets. If you need anything at all, the staff are more than happy to help!
The library has introduced a family-friendly area recently too!
*(Due to licensing laws, they can’t have under 18’s in past this time).
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4. THERE'S ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING ON
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The first Sunday of Welcome Week is all about family-fun. There’s inflatables, free activities, a petting zoo and some tasty treats, plus so much more…
If you’re looking to pass some time between lectures, why not drop into Verve on Mondays and check out live acoustic sets, or have a look around the campus for the Union’s pop up stalls where you can stop for a chat. The Union’s website has a full list of What’s On if you’re stuck for something to keep you occupied for an hour or so.
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5. MAKE USE OF ALL THE DISCOUNTS YOU'RE ENTITLED TO AS A STUDENT
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Life can be expensive. Totum (NUS Extra) offer hundreds of discounts that work both nationally and locally from cinema tickets, to restaurant offers and activities for everyone to enjoy. Find out more about here.
“Don’t forget, the Nursery on campus can be used by all Staffs students at a discounted price. I didn’t realise I could still use it over the summer too!”
Salma Khan, Union Team Member
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6. DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP
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Help is available for a wide range of issues, from the Students’ Union and University services. Remember you’re not alone and there are others that are going through the same as you.
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7. ENJOY IT!
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“It might have taken you a bit longer to get to Uni so enjoy every moment and grab any opportunity that comes your way! Make the most out of your student experience.“
Nat Campbell, Mature, Parent & Carer Committee
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Let us know your top tips by tweeting us @staffsunion.
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