5 things for undergraduates to get involved in next year
Published on 16 May 13
We know you've got the whole summer to get through first, but there's plenty to look forward to when you return in September
Many things you can just turn up and get involved in next semester, but others you need to think about now to make sure you get what you want.
1. Take a different course unit with the University College
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If there's something you've always fancied studying, just for a bit, then take a look at the course units with the University College. The stand-alone units from right across the University are designed to challenge you to think outside of your usual academic discipline, and discover new ways of learning and thinking. You'll get credits towards your degree for all of the courses, and some also form part of an additional award, such as the Manchester Leadership Programme.
If you like the idea of understanding a little bit of something new, but can't commit to a whole course unit, you could try volunteering for research projects around the University. Being a research volunteer is a great opportunity to see first hand the range and variety of research that goes on everyday at Manchester. Some opportunities also have a monetary or other reward.
2. Represent your fellow students
Student representation is much more than just a playing at politics, student reps at course, School, Faculty, and University level make a big impact on what goes on. Reps - and their big siblings the Students' Union sabbatical officers - are chosen by students to represent their views on everything from the quality of your teaching, the state of your buildings, or even just he food served in your canteens. Go on, make a difference.
3. Volunteer in the local community
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Contrary to some reports, there are people living outside the Oxford Road bubble. Hundreds of students regularly give up time to support projects throughout South Manchester and beyond. The Sport Volunteer Scheme and Student Action are just two organisations run within the University and Students' Union that you can get involved with.
Students volunteer for many reasons, but according to Alice Engelhard, winner of this year's Volunteer of the Year, you'll benefit most from "the opportunity to engage with members of the community outside of their daily lives". Of course, you might develop some skills too.
- Read more about Alice's Volunteer of the Year award
4. Get a part-time job on campus
If you need to earn some extra money, then you may be able to find a part-time job on campus. There are lots of ways to get paid while representing your University - sharing your experiences with prospective students during Open Days, new students during Welcome week, or with our alumni - as well as other events and projects throughout the year. Most campus opportunities are advertised through the Careers service. There are also jobs in the bars and shops close to campus. The sooner you get in touch with them, the better your chances of finding work.
5. Try a new activity
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With almost 300 societies, ranging from Hiking to Bhangra, Chess to Philosophy - and a huge variety of religious, cultural, and political groups - there's something for everyone. But if you really don't find what you're looking for you can always start your own! Being part of a society is a fantastic way to meet new people and try something new. You can also gain the skills employers are looking for by getting involved in running a society, such as team work, organisational, and communication skills. All the info you need to start, run, and join a society is on the Students' Union web pages.