University gives financial helping hand to freshers

Students worrying about starting university this year are getting a helping hand at the University of Derby.

The university has announced it is giving everyone enrolling in their first year a free Freshers’ wristband, worth over £60.

This provides access to various events where they will have the chance to meet other students and get their university years off to the best possible start.

Professor Keith McLay, provost (learning and teaching) at the University of Derby, said: “Students who collected their exam results last Thursday have experienced the pandemic, teachers’ strikes and the cost-of-living crisis, and many are worried about leaving home and making friends.

“We want every student to get the best start at university. To help them settle in and make friends we are covering the cost of freshers.”

Derby’s freshers can look forward to a wide range of activities, organised by the Union of Students, including UV rave and foam party nights.

There are also lots of other fun, inclusive and engaging events, from sports to socials, quizzes to games nights, so there is something for everyone.

Professor McLay said: “We are looking forward to welcoming our new students in September and supporting them as they start their journey with us.

“Thanks to the Union of Students, there will be plenty of activities to help them settle into their new life and start the next chapter in the best possible way.

“We recognise that starting university can be a daunting experience. Often students are moving away from home for the first time and may be moving to a new city or even country – all of which are important life decisions.

“At Derby, our focus is on providing students with a supportive, inclusive environment where they can fulfil their potential.”

Dominic White, president of the Union of Students, said: “The cost-of-living crisis means that not every student could afford to take part in Freshers, and are losing out on opportunities to socialise.

“I am delighted that the Union of Students is working with the university to enable all our first years to experience Freshers for free.”