So, what even is a Students’ Union, and how do I join one? Is there a difference between Welcome and Freshers? And how do I make friends at uni?
As a new student, you probably have so many questions, as there’s a lot to take in! Or, you might be a returning student who hasn’t found their feet or had the chance to get involved with LUU yet.
Take a scroll to see some of the most common questions we receive every year, and make sure to get in touch if you have further enquiries.
What is Welcome? And when does it start?
Welcome is what we call our Freshers to show that it isn’t just for new students – everyone is welcome! Every student is welcome to any event – it is never too late to get involved with LUU.
Our Welcome Week officially starts on 22 September, but there are events before it too – such as the Arrival Party on 21 September.
Check out the programme and learn more on our Welcome page!
What is a Clubs and Societies Fair?
A Clubs and Societies Fair is your chance to meet all of our 350+ clubs & societies, as well as external businesses and brands, and find out all the ways you can get involved and make the most out of your time at Leeds. We host our Clubs and Societies Fair over 3 days from 22 to 24 September.
The clubs and societies in attendance are different every day, so be sure to come along to all three days to get as much information as possible on what could be right for you! This event will be held inside and outside LUU, and down into the Edge.
What is a Students’ Union, and how do I become a member?
A Students’ Union is an independent organisation that exists to represent students and their interests to the university, as well as on a local and national scale, giving them a voice on the things that matter to them.
LUU – Leeds University Union – is a not-for-profit charity run by students for students. LUU is run by six Student Exec Officers who are elected each year by the members of the Union, and supported by a team of dedicated staff. Our charitable status means that every penny of profit we make goes straight back into improving things for the students.
You don’t need to pay for a membership and student at the University of Leeds can a member – during your registration process, you will be asked if you would like to join the Union – by ticking this, you will make it easier to get involved with what we have to offer.
To stay in the loop, make sure to follow us on social media, and check your inbox for our weekly term-time newsletter!
How will I make friends?
It is normal to feel overwhelmed and lonely when you come to university – you might have left your home for the first time, you might have even moved to a new country, and you might struggle to approach new people. But you’re not alone feeling like this!
Here’s our top tips to make friends:
- Check out our vast catalogue of clubs & societies. Register for a membership if anything grabs your attention, or try it first at our free Give It A Go sessions. You can also meet all the clubs & societies at the Welcome Fairs and ask them anything in person!
- If you’re staying in halls, get to know your hallmates. Prop your door open and put some music on as you unpack – anyone passing is bound to say hi. If you want to get chatting to people before you arrive, you can join the official Facebook group for your hall. Your hall will also be organising events throughout the year.
- Check out the Global Cafe every Monday in Common Ground. It is an opportunity for any student to meet new people, relax with friends, have great conversations, and enjoy free refreshments.
- Take a look at our events programme. Our trips and mindfulness sessions are a great environment to connect with new people.
- If you feel the calling to make a difference, become a student leader. By putting yourself out there for Lead LUU or joining Liberation and International Student Network (LISN), or doing some volunteering, not only are you helping improve our community, you’re also expanding your network with like-minded passionate people.
- Work in LUU. LUU is a great place to work as a student as it is convenient and flexible. Make friends while earning money and picking up useful skills!
How do I log in to LUU websites?
First things first, there are two websites you need to check out:
- Leeds University Union (this website – www.luu.ac.uk) for general information, resources and recent updates
- Engage for events, clubs & societies, and FAQs
You can log into into the Engage Platform when you have your @leeds.ac.uk username and email address. If you forgot to opt into LUU membership during registration, this will also allow you to sign-up and join clubs and societies.
We at LUU are so excited to open our doors to every new student at Universities in Leeds. Look below for some FAQ’s, and if you’re still curious, please email Help and Support with any further questions.
QUICK QUESTIONS
But, what is LUU?
LUU is a charity independent from the university that provides students with support, events and a space to be themselves. We are host to food outlets, bars and venues and a huge support network, and you can’t forget the clubs and societies! Our core values are ‘Fun, Empowerment and Inclusivity’ and our main goal is to ensure that all students love their time at Leeds.
How do I get my username, password and email account?
On a University computer: press Ctrl + Alt + Delete, enter ‘mypassword’ in both boxes, enter student ID number and date of birth.
On a home computer: visit mypassword.leeds.ac.uk, enter your student ID number and date of birth
What is a Totum card?
Totum card is a student discount card which can be used to save on food, fashion, cinema, rail tickets, and loads more. It starts at £12 and lasts either one, two or three years.
You can order yours directly from the Totum website.
Note – you can get discounts with your student ID too!
Where can I find a map of campus and ask for directions?
Our friendly Help & Support staff are always up for giving directions. They are located in the foyer, on the entry level of LUU, in front of the large digital screen. They will typically be wearing blue shirts, so feel free to ask them if you need any help. You can also use the map in the UniLeeds mobile app, or look at the map online.
What is a GP and why is it important to get one?
At University it is vital that you get a GP. A GP is the designated doctor that will help you personally, and is covered financially by the NHS. This means that you will have a specific doctor’s practice to attend when you are feeling unwell.
Leeds Student Medical Practice is the GP located closest to the University. They will be popping up on campus throughout Welcome Week, so keep an eye out for them if you have any questions that cannot be answered through their website.
https://www.leedsstudentmedicalpractice.co.uk/
I need some support, where do I go?
If you have any queries relating to student life or if you need any advice, please contact Help & Support on helpandsupport@luu.leeds.ac.uk. If it feels a little more serious, we recommend you talk to your GP or contact the University Counselling service.
https://students.leeds.ac.uk/counselling-wellbeing-support
Where are the cash machines?
There is a cash machine in Union Square on Level -1 of LUU, next to the Amazon lockers – this does have a charge. The nearest free cash point is outside Tesco near the Parkinson Building.
Where can I fill up my water?
There are a number of Chilly’s water fountains in LUU, providing both free tap water and filtered water for up to £1. Water is also available in our cafes and bars.
Where do I go to check lost property?
All property lost in LUU is handed in to Help & Support in the Foyer, either on the day it was lost, or at the latest 48 hours later. We also get lost property handed in that has been found elsewhere on campus, so it’s worth checking even if you lost it somewhere else
How can I post a letter or parcel?
There is one post box near the Business School and one just after the Laidlaw library. You can get stamps from the Co-op in LUU.
If you’re returning a parcel to an online company, you may be able to drop it off in the Union Shop using Collect Plus. If it’s a personal parcel or the retailer doesn’t accept Collect Plus, the Post Office is your best bet. You can choose one near your house or the closest ones to campus are St Johns or Woodsley Road.
What and where are all the venues in LUU?
LUU is host to many different venues across the one building. We are lucky to have two bars, three event spaces, two theatres, four dance studios and multiple retail outlets. Events will be held in these spaces all throughout Freshers week, and will become a staple in your university experience. We recommend you take an explorative walk around these spaces to discover what there is to offer, and ask help and support for directions if you’re looking for somewhere specific.
Where can I smoke on campus?
The University of Leeds is a smoke-free campus. This means that between the hours of 8am-6pm, smoking is prohibited throughout all areas of the University, including LUU. If necessary, we would recommend walking out of the university grounds, as to not disturb any fellow students. If you need help to quit smoking, please consult the NHS webpage.
LUU – Your Place For Fun & Friendships
Poem by Louise Banahene
