University is stressful. And expensive. So why not get your money’s worth out of it? Here are some services that most unis provide that you might not know about.
Rent a Suit
Okay, so not all universities offer this directly, but they will be able to tell you where you can get this service. If money is tight and you need a suit/formalwear for a job interview, please contact your university’s Student Services team. You might be able to borrow (for free!) or rent an outfit. This service can often be found as a pop-up stall at graduate/jobs fair events.
Gym Access
From a timetabling and safety point of view, time to exercise at uni is often in the dark, which isn’t ideal. However, as part of wellbeing, many universities have an on-campus gym, usually with no membership fee. Not only will it be a safe space to exercise, but many run weekly courses such as yoga or Zumba, which are great opportunities to make friends.
Related: How To Choose The Right Uni Course For You?
Counselling
Staying on the topic of wellbeing, many universities provide a free and confidential counselling service. Qualified professionals will be widely accessible to accommodate for timetabling needs, and will be used to working with students. A key benefit of this service is that you won’t necessarily be on a very long waiting list as you might if you went through your GP.
Money Advice Team
If you are finding that you’re struggling to make ends meet every month, seek out your uni’s finance team. They will be ready to help you with budgeting and cost-cutting ideas. They will also be able to tell you if you are eligible to claim any additional benefits to help with your study.
Safezone App
Many universities are linked to the Safezone app which provides additional security on and around campus. Not only does the Safezone app allow you to check-in to your location if you are alone, alerting nearby security staff, but it also allows you to access emergency wellbeing teams.
Library Services- free TV and films!
This is possibly my favourite one that I discovered by accident in lockdown. More often than not, your university’s online database isn’t just limited to textbooks and classic literature. English, Media and Performing Arts students often have access to free TV and films for study purposes, so why not piggy-back and see what you can find? An example of this is the free access to the National Theatre Collection for those unis who are registered.