Starting off at university is a nerve-wracking experience for everyone, yet beginning in a pandemic can be even more stressful. In this article we will be discussing what RGU is offering students so that you can still have a great student experience even if slightly altered from previous years.
Starting off at university is a nerve-wracking experience for everyone, yet beginning in a pandemic can be even more stressful. In this article we will be discussing what RGU is offering students so that you can still have a great student experience even if slightly altered from previous years.
For those who are staying in RGU Student Accommodation the RGU ResLife team is there to create a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere for students. The team has planned some amazing competitions to keep students entertained and involved. Competitions involve pumpkin carving and best-looking room decor. The prizes will reflect what students most need during lockdown (i.e. EarPods and Speakers), so definitely worth looking into. Additionally, the ResLife team have been putting on Bingo sessions, Pictionary Nights and Treasure Hunts. You can keep up-to-date with all the fantastic RGU ResLife events through their social media pages or by contacting reslife@rgu.ac.uk.
The RGU: Union and its Societies and groups are still operating, although virtual. There will be plenty of opportunities to take part and enjoy the social aspect of university life. Events to look forward to include Netflix Parties, Online Quizzes and Virtual Q&A sessions. You can find more information on all the great events that will be taking place through https://www.rguunion.co.uk/whatson/ . RGU’s media groups are operating; so if you would like to spend your free time in lockdown honing in on your creative skills there are opportunities to create music shows, podcasts, articles and even videos, all from the comfort of your home but whilst still giving you a platform to get your voice heard.
Jordan Moore, RGU President of Sport and Physical Activity, has equally stated that RGU Sport is back open- both virtually and physically. Moore commented, “I personally feel very very lucky that sport and physical activity has remained on the ‘can do’ list and I am determined to utilise this opportunity to grow our community and warmly welcome as many new students as possible.” Sport is, of course, still a vital part of our health and wellbeing; to take time away from our desks, especially when we are in lockdown, is important. Whilst the gyms are back open, with covid-19 safety procedures in place, your 2020/21 membership now includes online fitness classes and a webinar series. Additionally, the RGU sports clubs are not currently allowed to use the gyms in the same way that they were so previously. Still, clubs are ‘taking this as an opportunity to develop skills, build fitness and grow their teams ready to return to sport as we know it when allowed to do so.’ If interested in joining a club or to get more information, drop them an email at ‘clubname@rguunion.co.uk’ or through their social media pages.
Whilst 2020 is a scary time and students do want to socialise, we must always remember to stay safe. Terry Knight, ResLife & Student Help Point Manager congratulated students on obeying the rules; “...our halls student community should be praised for their cooperation and compliance with the safety measures in place. I am very grateful and proud of them, and the support our Union has provided them during this pandemic.”
The RGU has recommended that all students download the NHS Test & Trace App and to remember the Scottish government's rules in helping us protect each other from the virus.
On a final note, if any student is struggling with their mental health, please get in touch with RGU mental health support services. There is RGU: Nightline and Counselling Services through ASK:RGU. Just because we are separated, does not mean you are on your own.