We're so excited to welcome you to campus - check out what we've got planned for you during January Welcome, along with some helpful tips to get you started with life as a university student!
We're so excited to welcome you to campus - check out what we've got planned for you along with some helpful tips to get you started with life as a university student!
Starting in a new place can be scary, especially if you don’t know anyone or have travelled miles away from home for the first time. However, the SU has a few ways of making that transition into university life a little bit easier.
Every student at The University of Central Lancashire is automatically a member of UCLan Students’ Union, regardless of which campus they’re studying on.
From the Course Reps and School Presidents who help shape teaching and learning, or the Advice Centre which supports thousands of students each year, to the Sports Clubs and Societies who provide an opportunity for students to connect and feel part of the student community – your student experience matters to us.
As a UCLan Students’ Union member you can:
- Vote and run for a position in the Students’ Union Elections
- Have your voice heard and represented
- Submit ideas and campaigns for positive change
- Access support from our free, independent and confidential Advice Service
- Join or start any UCLan Students’ Union Sports Clubs or Societies
- Get involved in our volunteering projects
- Socialise and relax in our social spaces
You can read more about who we are here
Your officers are here to represent the views of YOU and ensure that you're getting the best academic and student experience whilst at studying here. The role of officers is to raise awareness of issues and campaign for change. They are also involved in making decisions alongside senior university staff and attend various key meetings to get student voice heard at the highest levels. Your 23/24 Officers are President Luke, VP Activities Sophie, VP Welfare Joe and VP Education Charlotte!
"We're thrilled to introduce ourselves and share our passion for making your University experience at UCLAN the best it can be. Together, we form the core team dedicated to advocating for your needs, amplifying your voices, and enhancing every facet of student life.”
“We're more than just titles – we're here to be your allies and advocates in navigating the student journey. From addressing concerns to amplifying your achievements, we're driven by your needs and aspirations.
Connect with us, share your ideas, and let's work together to create an unforgettable university experience. Your voices matter, and we're here to make them heard."
The officers have been elected by your fellow students in the 2023 student elections and are here to support you.
Their inboxes are always open so don't hesitate to get in touch if you need or want to raise anything about us or the University!
You can read more about the officers here
What's Welcome Week without a full lineup of events for you to spend your time at??
We've got quite a range of events specially curated for you. From a Vintage Thrift Sale, to a Sip n Paint night to a Harry Potter Quiz, we think we've got something everyone will like.
Head to our events page here to browse through all of our events. You'll also be able to check out events that our clubs and societies are currently offering!
View events
In the heart of Preston campus is where you'll find us and your new student social spaces!
Lampworks
Your brand new student social space! Open seven days a week, Lampworks is your one stop place for eating, drinking, studying, playing games and socialising! - The chill atmosphere makes it the perfect place to hang out after a long day. We’ve got pretty much everything you’d want to do on campus. Book a table and find out more here
Cafe
Fresh pastries, warm bagels and meal deals - need we say more!? Our Cafe is great for a quick pick-me-up before or between classes right in the centre of campus! Catch up with your mates or have a study sesh with our indoor and outdoor seating.
Merchandise
Who doesn’t want to rep their University with that classic sweatshirt? That’s not all we offer though, browse our full range of merchandise including hoodie, t-shirts, pens and even UCLan teddy bears! Visit our Preston welcome desk or have a browse online
Joining our clubs and societies is a great way to meet others with the same interest as you, or for you to find a new interest. Societies are student-led extracurricular groups covering a range of interests, designed to bring students together and find your community. We have it all! Joining a Society or Club is the perfect way to meet your people, make friends, and get involved in social activities. There’s no limit on how many you can join either, so take a look through what’s on offer and sign up now!
A new and different way to make friends at University is to download the “Umii” app. Umii is a friend meeting app (kind of like a dating app) that allows you to see and be seen by other verified UCLan students who have also signed up. Create a profile on the app, with your course, interests and hobbies and then leave it to Umii to find people like you!
We hope you never need us, but we’re here to help if you do.
The Advice and Representation Centre can be found on the ground floor of the Students’ Union and can help all students with advice on a range of matters. Our advisors are here to offer free advice in a professional but friendly, relaxed environment. We won’t judge you, we're here to help you as much as we can, regardless of your issues.
Because we are independent from the University we are able to represent you without any conflict of interest. All enquiries are dealt with the strictest confidence, which means that we do not disclose anything that you have told us unless you have given us permission to do so.
You can find out more about our Advice Centre and support services here
How the Students' Union Benefits Me as a Student
"As a student of UCLan, you automatically become a member of the Students’ Union, meaning we can benefit from all of the services and events that are happening throughout the SU."
Being an International Student
"Being an international student, travelling miles away from home and landing somewhere completely new is an adventure all on its own. It's the start of a new life and comes with highs and lows that not everyone can understand or relate to."
Volunteering Projects for the New Year
"Looking for something new in your new year? We have several volunteering projects for you to get in involved in! Our projects are a great way to develop new skills and meet other students"
How I'm Coping With the Rising Cost of Living
"As students, I’m sure most of us can relate to the fact that we don’t have millions of pounds in the bank to be splashing around whenever we fancy. In this article I will be sharing my own experiences as a 2nd year student in Preston, and how I (attempt) to save money as best as possible."
Making Friends at University
"Meeting new people - the thing we all want to do but simultaneously dread! Luckily that means you’re in the same boat as everybody else, wanting to mingle and meet new people but trying to overcome the nerves first"
My Experience of Being a Part of Sports at UCLan
"I have always loved everything sports, so I was easily drawn to try out new sporting activities and the Students’ Union provided many opportunities and easy access to get involved in a variety of sports. The SU set up Give It A Go sessions which gives students the opportunity to try something new in a safe environment.
Student Money Week Resources & Tips
"The cost of living crisis is affecting lots of people in lots of different ways, and there has been a lot of news about the continued rise in energy bills, inflation, and the cost of living. Here are a few top tips and resources to help you get by"