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Find Your Creative Flow: Freshers' Week at Arts University Plymouth
Thursday, 5 September, 2024 — Unleash your creativity this Freshers' Week at Arts University Plymouth! Dive into unique events, make meaningful connections, and explore new opportunities in your creative community.
<p dir="ltr">Welcome to Freshers' Week at Arts University Plymouth! As you step into this exciting chapter, we want you to feel inspired and ready to explore all the creative possibilities that lie ahead. Freshers' Week isn't just about settling into a new place — it's about diving into a vibrant community of artists, designers, and makers, discovering new passions, and forming connections that will shape your time here. Whether you're navigating your first studio session, exploring Plymouth’s art scene, or meeting like-minded peers, Freshers' Week is your first brushstroke on the canvas of your university experience.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Choosing to study in Plymouth means immersing yourself in a city that celebrates creativity at every turn. As a coastal city with a rich history, Plymouth offers the perfect blend of stunning natural surroundings and a thriving cultural scene. From the bustling Barbican, with its independent galleries and quirky shops, to the city’s beautiful waterfront and historic landmarks, there is always something new to discover. Being in Plymouth means you're not just studying art; you're living it every day, surrounded by a supportive creative community and countless opportunities to find inspiration, collaborate, and grow.<br /></p>
Arts University Plymouth by Luke Frost
<p dir="ltr">Feeling a bit nervous about your first week? Don’t worry – that’s completely normal! To help ease those first-day jitters, take some time to get familiar with Arts University Plymouth. Start by checking out the welcome emails we've sent and exploring our online welcome page. Here, you’ll find all the details on enrollment, your timetable, and everything you need to know before you step onto campus. And don’t forget to follow us on social media for the latest updates and advice throughout your first year!</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you’re unsure about what to pack, our friends at <a href="https://www.unikitout.com/collections/student-kits?tw_source=google&tw_adid=695622591247&tw_source=google&tw_adid=695622591247&utm_term=unikitout&utm_campaign=21150789510&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=3537576794&hsa_cam=17157102221&hsa_grp=157443783981&hsa_ad=695622591247&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-369326770790&hsa_kw=unikitout&hsa_mt=b&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwiuC2BhDSARIsALOVfBKf6NUsPcblBttsVHxff3yYT6baAaeAdwHZVpGuXq6RWqcWfnnYHYEaAoSyEALw_wcB">UniKitOut</a> have made things a lot easier with their student starter boxes, filled with all the essentials you’ll need – no stressful trips to IKEA required (we know the feeling!). Plus, you can save money using our discount code ‘AUP10’. And if you realise you’ve forgotten something, don’t worry! <a href="https://www.drakecircus.com/">Drake Circus</a> shopping mall is just around the corner from most of the local student accommodation, so you’ll have plenty of shops nearby to pick up any last-minute items from shops like <a href="https://www.drakecircus.com/eatdrinkshop/boots">Boots</a>, <a href="https://www.drakecircus.com/eatdrinkshop/primark">Primark</a>, and <a href="https://www.drakecircus.com/eatdrinkshop/flying-tiger">Tiger</a> (fairy lights for your room, anyone?).</p>
<p dir="ltr">You might also want to set up a <a href="https://www.moneysupermarket.com/current-accounts/results-page/?goal=cur_student&sort=overdraft&source=GOO-0X0000048C2DEA1CE0&gclid=Cj0KCQjwiuC2BhDSARIsALOVfBIbZJbGMFF3A-J-F5fWWS11gWWXkBiSyuqcHiqx3l41d4c6V89rQG8aArvpEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">student bank account</a> with an interest-free overdraft to help cover university costs. Just remember, it’s a safety net, not a free pot of money – you’ll need to pay it back, so use it wisely.<br /></p>
<p dir="ltr">To help you settle in and start feeling at home, we suggest moving into your halls of residence as early as possible. This gives you a chance to get a head start on unpacking, making friends, and exploring your new surroundings before everyone else arrives. Getting settled in early can really help with any homesickness by creating a safe and familiar space for yourself.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Once you're all moved in, take some time to get to know your local area. Finding a nearby store for affordable groceries can be a lifesaver—look out for <a href="https://stores.aldi.co.uk/south-west/plymouth/greenbank-road?utm_source=google&utm_medium=Yext&utm_campaign=E0319">Aldi</a> or <a href="https://g.co/kgs/LHqYyTt">Lidl</a> if you’re on a budget. If not, stores like <a href="https://www.tesco.com/store-locator/plymouth/tesco-stores-ltd?sc_cmp=ref*yg*stc*3033&utm_source=yext_google&utm_campaign=local_Express_England&utm_medium=organic">Tesco</a> or <a href="https://g.co/kgs/1MJ5iS4">Sainsbury’s</a> often have great point card systems that can save you money.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you’re in shared accommodation, why not team up with your housemates for joint food shopping? It’s a great way to save some cash and maybe even cook together, making mealtime a fun social activity.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Luckily, Plymouth is quite a small city so you’ll be able to familiarise yourself with it quite quickly. Not only is Plymouth one of the <a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/posts/why-you-can-feel-safe-living-in-plymouth">safest cities in the UK</a>, it has also been ranked as one of the<a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/posts/plymouth-one-of-the-cheapest-uk-cities-2022"> cheapest cities in the UK</a>, and the <strong>Cheapest City in the South of England</strong> according to a survey by the <a href="https://www.studentcrowd.com/page/cheapest-uk-cities-for-student-accommodation">StudentCrowd</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Our Student Union has put together a handy <a href="https://www.artsuniplymsu.co.uk/post/getting-to-know-plymouth-1">guide</a> to help you get to know Plymouth. <br /></p>
Plymouth is quite a chilled-out and relaxed place, which helped me to settle in. I really like Royal William Yard and I love the Hoe. It was the first time I’d had an ocean view in my hometown so it was really amazing. And I like the pubs!
Tatsu Ishikawa, international student
<p dir="ltr">Our wonderful <a href="https://www.artsuniplymsu.co.uk/">Arts University Plymouth Student Union</a> has curated an exciting lineup of <a href="https://www.artsuniplymsu.co.uk/event-list">events</a> to help you settle in and make new friends! They've planned a range of activities to suit everyone, from city tours and bar nights at the Students' Union to special events for LGBTQ+ students, mature students, international students, and more.</p>
<p dir="ltr">All events are ticketed and admission-free, so you can easily secure your spot and join in on the Freshers' fun without any stress. Whether it's exploring the campus or discovering your new city, there's something for everyone. To check out and book these fantastic events, <a href="https://www.artsuniplymsu.co.uk/event-list">click here</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In addition to Student Union events, we’ve compiled a list of other Freshers’ activities happening in Plymouth:<br /></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.yourfreshersguide.com/event/plymouth-freshers-week-wristband-2024-the-biggest-events-of-plymouth-freshers-2024-%F0%9F%8E%89/">Plymouth Freshers Week Wristband 2024 – The Biggest Events of Plymouth Freshers 2024 🎉</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.yourfreshersguide.com/event/freshers-shutdown-plymouth-freshers-2024/">Freshers Shutdown | Plymouth Freshers 2024</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.yourfreshersguide.com/event/fml-its-freshers-plymouth-freshers-2024/">FML It’s Freshers | Plymouth Freshers 2024</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.yourfreshersguide.com/event/back-to-the-90s-00s-plymouth-freshers-2024/">Back to the 90s & 00s | Plymouth Freshers 2024</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.yourfreshersguide.com/event/fck-me-its-halloween-plymouth-freshers-2024/">FML It’s Halloween | Plymouth Freshers 2024</a></p></li></ul>
<p dir="ltr">Plus, don’t forget to visit our ‘What’s On’ page and our ‘What’s On In Plymouth: September 2024’ for more local events that might pique your interest. If Freshers’ events aren't quite your thing, these alternatives are a great way to dive into life in Plymouth!<br /></p>
<p dir="ltr">Freshers’ week is just the beginning. As the first term progresses, there will be plenty more events and opportunities to help you settle in and make the most of your university experience. Don't miss the <a href="https://www.artsuniplymsu.co.uk/event-details/freshers-2024-freshers-fair">Freshers' Fair</a>—it's your gateway to discovering the wide variety of societies and clubs on offer. Whether you’re into niche hobbies or mainstream activities, there’s something for everyone. Plus, who doesn’t love a good freebie? You’ll leave with more than enough pens, food vouchers, and other goodies to make your new flat feel like home.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Plymouth’s nightlife also has plenty to offer, with local clubs hosting student nights featuring discounted entry and drinks. Whether it's a night out with friends or a quiet evening at the SU bar, there’s always something happening to keep you entertained.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.artsuniplymsu.co.uk/meettheteam">The Student Union</a> at Arts University Plymouth is dedicated to ensuring you have the best experience during your time here. Our diverse team, made up of students and graduates, is elected by you to represent your voice and provide support. The SU organises events, activities, and campaigns throughout the year, including special initiatives to promote mental health and wellbeing, such as Mental Health Awareness Week and University Mental Health Day.</p>
<p dir="ltr">You’ll find our Student Union team ready to help with everything from academic representation to finding ways to get involved in campus life. The SU also provides free condoms and pregnancy tests from the Student Union Office at Tavistock Place, so don't hesitate to drop by if you need them. If you have any questions or need support, the SU is just an <a href="mailto:studentsunion@aup.ac.uk">email</a> or a visit away!<br /></p>
Student Union Manager Harriet Moore & Student Union President & Student Governor Beth Evans
<p dir="ltr">It’s easy to get carried away in the excitement of your first few weeks, but managing your finances early on is crucial. Set up a budget and stick to it using a budgeting app to keep track of your spending. It's easy to overspend during the initial weeks and find yourself scraping by on instant noodles by the end of the term. Remember, your student loan might not arrive immediately, so having some savings or an overdraft as a safety net can prevent any unnecessary stress.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Check out our advice on <a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/posts/top-tips-managing-your-money">budgeting and finding student jobs</a> to help you manage your finances effectively.<br /></p>
<p dir="ltr">Now that you're living independently, maintaining a healthy diet is key to staying energised and focused. While takeaways are tempting, cooking at home is a more budget-friendly and nutritious option. Try doing a big food shop once a week to stock up on essentials, and consider batch cooking to save time and money. Not only will your body thank you, but so will your bank account. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Checkout the Student Unions guide to <a href="https://www.artsuniplymsu.co.uk/post/budget-friendly-foods">budget-friendly foods</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">University life can be overwhelming at times, but remember, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our <a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/disability-support-and-reasonable-adjustments">Student Support</a> team offers a range of free services throughout your studies, including counselling, mindfulness sessions, and wellbeing workshops. Whether you’re feeling homesick, stressed, or just need someone to talk to, we're here to help. Take advantage of these resources—your mental and emotional wellbeing is just as important as your academic success.</p>
<p dir="ltr">From managing homesickness to staying on top of your finances, we're committed to supporting you every step of the way. Your journey at Arts University Plymouth is just beginning, and we’re excited to see where it takes you.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Starting university is a big step, but remember, you’re not alone—there’s a whole community here at Arts University Plymouth ready to welcome you with open arms. From discovering new passions and making lifelong friends to finding your own unique path, your university experience is what you make of it. So, embrace every opportunity, lean on the support around you, and most importantly, enjoy this exciting new chapter! We can't wait to see all the incredible things you’ll achieve here. <br /></p>
