Welcome to Queen Mary! My name is Helena Smout and I am the International Student Experience Officer at QMUL. As a previous student of this University, I understand just how nervous, excited and apprehensive you must be feeling about the adventures ahead. My role is to work with you and your schools, the Students’ Union and other departments across the University to help you get the most out of your time here.
All new international and EU students are invited to take part in the International/EU Student Welcome Programme during Welcome Week (Monday 17 – Friday 21 September). The programme will introduce you to living and studying in the UK and, specifically, at Queen Mary. Book your place here.
We shall be running lots of information sessions on topics including registering with the Police, immigration advice, banking, where to buy food, keeping fit and finding part-time work. There will also be lots of social events taking place throughout the week run by both the University and the Students’ Union.
We do hope that you will be able to join us at the International/EU Student Welcome Programme. Please be aware, however, that if your academic department or school has scheduled meetings or events at the same time as the International Welcome Programme then you should attend the school events as a priority.
If you are on an Erasmus+, Associate or Study Abroad programme of six months or less, there is a separate introductory programme for you, but you are still welcome to join any of the other workshops as your schedule allows.
If you have any questions or just want to say hello, feel free to contact me on int-studentexperience@qmul.ac.uk.
Queen Mary Students’ Union is the voice of all students studying at Queen Mary, and offers over 300 clubs and societies to join where you can make new friends, build new skills, spark new interests and give back to the local community. The Students’ Union runs a range of cafes, bars, restaurants and shops, as well as a sport and fitness centre: Qmotion.
If you need pillows and duvets but need to wait until you arrive, check out the Online Shop and pre-order yours for collection when you move in.
You can also run to be an elected representative and have your say on your course and on issues that affect Queen Mary, the local area and nationally. You can find out more about your Students’ Union here.
We run hundreds of events throughout the year, including events specifically for international students and events designed to help you meet new friends at Queen Mary, including speed meetings, our Welcome Fair, socials, club nights and more. You can find all our events on our website, and look out for Try Something New, a guide of events and activities run by the Students’ Union and student groups throughout the year.
You will soon be getting your Welcome Pack, which will include information on how to get involved with your Students’ Union, as well as a free GiffGaff SIM card with £5 free credit, which covers international calls – perfect for when you want to call home! There will also be a box available at the Students’ Union Hub Reception if you don’t collect yours during the International/EU Student Welcome Programme.