Mature Students: Getting involved in student society
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Your support makes all the difference.FEAR NOT, the image of beer-guzzling, sofa-loving, night-clubbing young layabouts may be true of some students, but is an unfair depiction of most.
All students, regardless of age, background or experience go to university to explore the social and educational opportunities which exist, and most students are positive and highly motivated.
"Student life is what you make of it," says Graham Christ, 43, who gained a BSc in molecular biology at the University of London, aged 29, and is now studying for a MPhil in intellectual property law at the University of Sussex.
"I'd stress it is important to throw yourself in as education is about broadening your mind, meeting new people, discussing ideas or discovering new interests which are as important as anything you study.
"I knew some mature students who missed out on so much because of their family commitments. If you can organise your time well, it should be possible for anyone to become involved.
"The key is not to be daunted by the experience. Remember it is as new to the other students as it is to you and they are likely to be just as nervous. Regardless of your background, you've all got your university experience in common and that creates a very special bond."
He suggested that single mature students should explore the possibility of finding a shared house to rent, as it is an excellent way to make friends with students from different disciplines, and provides more privacy than halls of residence.
Jan Selwyn said: "Most departments hold welcome parties which are well worth attending since they introduce students to each other and to the staff. There are also mature student societies which are a good idea if you need reassurance.
"The freshers' fair, where all the university clubs, groups and societies recruit new members is also worth investigating as there is bound to be something to interest everyone and clubs are another means of finding common ground."
For those who might find time only at a premium, she recommends joining a course-orientated club or signing up for extra-curricular outings as a good way to get to know people and further your understanding of a subject.
"The main thing is to be confident. Introduce yourself to other students and ask them what they are studying," she says. "You'll soon strike up a conversation."
"If you find time is lacking because of family commitments, make an effort to go for a coffee with students after a lecture or tutorial. It needn't take long and it is a brilliant way of confirming that you're actually a part of it all."
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