Hi ,

I hope you're settling into university life, enjoying exploring your new campus and starting your studies.

Whether you're making friends, exploring your local community or looking for ways to thrive, this newsletter is packed with student recommendations, opportunities and resources to help you feel supported and connected. 

You belong here and we're so glad you're part of our Newcastle University community! 

All the best, 

Yvonne 

In this edition: 

Finding your people

In the pre-arrival course, we asked: 'What worries you about starting university?'

The most common answer was 'making friends'.  

Being a student can sometimes feel lonely, but remember, if you haven’t found your crowd or made any connections yet, that’s completely normal and OK!

It can be daunting, but university is also a fantastic opportunity to socialise and build lasting friendships.

Estrella, a Journalism, Media and Culture student, shares her top tips for making friends - from joining clubs and societies to saying yes to new experiences. 

Enjoy the journey of finding your people! 

Share your story with Our Cultures, Our Communities, a new student-led blog from your NUSU President, Ilsa Hartley, celebrating the diverse voices, identities and experiences of life at Newcastle.

Whether through a blog post, poem, artwork or photograph, you can showcase what makes you you and help build empathy, awareness and connection across our campus.

📅 Submissions open 1 October – 17 October, with the first posts going live on 27 October.

Visit King's Gate

Did you know King's Gate Levels 1 and 2 recently had a makeover? 

Designed with students in mind, you'll find social spaces, purpose-built wellbeing rooms and dedicated areas like the START UP space for our community of entrepreneurs and creatives. It’s the perfect place to connect, study and relax! 

You'll also find your friendly Student Engagement Team here, ready to offer expert advice and point you in the right direction if you have any questions. Whether you need support, information or just a space to unwind, come by King’s Gate! 

👇 Watch the video to explore King's Gate 👇

Student Communities 

At Newcastle University, we’re dedicated to making sure every student has the best possible experience!

Whether you need academic skills support, careers advice, wellbeing resources, or help with the cost of living, there’s a wide range of support available. 

If you identify with any of the groups on our Student Communities webpage, you’ll also find tailored support from the University, the Students’ Union and other helpful resources. 

Introducing your Academic Officer 

Say hello to Gina Tindale, your Academic Officer for 2025–2026!

Gina is here to represent your academic interests, champion inclusivity and make sure your voice is heard at the highest levels of the University.

Find out how Gina is working to support your student experience - from tackling cost of living challenges to shaping academic policy through her role on University Council and Senate. 

Sober fun in Newcastle

Whether you're sober curious, cutting back or just looking for new ways to socialise without alcohol, there are plenty of ways to have fun and feel connected.  

Rachel, a recent Marketing graduate, has rounded up her favourite alcohol-free things to do in and around Newcastle.

From pottery painting to cute brunch spots, check out the extensive list of wholesome activities to keep you busy for the rest of the year!  

Belonging in your local community

Feeling at home in Newcastle isn’t just about campus life - it’s also about connecting with the wider community around you. 

Whether it’s getting to know your neighbours, exploring local green spaces or giving back through volunteering, there are plenty of ways to feel part of something bigger: 

• Be a good neighbour - be respectful and considerate, especially when socialising. Think responsible drinking, mindful noise levels, and proper litter disposal. 
• Go Volunteer - from one-off opportunities to regular roles, it’s a great way to make a difference in your local community. 
• Conservation volunteering - help the local environment with conservation tasks at local parks. 

'North-East Gems' collection 

Whether you’re settling into life as an honorary Geordie or if this is home turf for you, reading some ‘North-East Gems’ on Libby will make you feel right at home. 

Lose yourself in a great mystery novel, learn some North-East history or even borrow a travel guide.   

Explore the North-East by downloading the Libby App where you can access free audiobooks and eBooks that will take you from coast to country.   

✅ Register to vote: Look out for a form from The Electoral Commission to check who's registered to vote at your address. Respond by the deadline to make sure you're ready to vote!