International student
welcome programme
September 2015
Contents
Trip to Loch Lomond
1
Hello and welcome
2 Support for international students
3 Arriving in Glasgow
4 Getting to GCU
5 Welcome desk
6 Welcome weekend
7 International Orientation Week
13 Dates for your diary
18 Important! Key information
20 The Positive Living Team
21 Careers Support for International Students
23 Faith and Belief
24Checklist
25Ceilidh
Join Welcome to GCU on Facebook to find out about events and make friends before
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Join our Offical Group:
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Olá
Hello and welcome
Hello and welcome from the Campus Life Team at Glasgow Caledonian University.
We are delighted you have chosen to study at GCU and join our international
University. This is an exciting time as you take the next step towards your future.
We host the International Student Welcome Programme to support you in making this big
step. The programme includes social events, opportunities to meet students and staff, and
essential information. As you begin your studies, you may find that joining a new university
and moving to a new city or country can be a challenging experience. We are here to help
you throughout this time. Remember, other students are going through similar experiences
to you so invite your new friends along to events and activities as well.
We wish you every success in your studies at GCU and hope the experience is rewarding,
successful and most of all, fun. We look forward to meeting you during the programme and
getting to know you during your journey at GCU.
Read on to discover our International Student Welcome Programme . . .
Photo from our Welcome Ceilidh
[email protected]
1
Support for
international students
Visa Immigration Support and Advice (VISA)
The VISA Team specialises in visa and
immigration advice within the University.
If you have any enquiries regarding your
visa status, please contact the team directly.
All visa and immigration advice can only
be given by qualified staff within VISA at
the University.
We will help you make a new application or
extend your visa. For any personal issues we also
offer support and guidance. All communication is
confidential and free of charge.
Meeting an advisor
You can meet an advisor at a drop-in session, or by
making an appointment at the Campus Life Desk.
When meeting a VISA advisor for visa advice
ensure you bring your original passport and visa.
Campus Life Team
GCU’s professional student support services are an
important first port of call for practical advice and
support on all kinds of issues including settling into
university life, money, accommodation and disability.
Your first point of contact is the Campus Life Team,
who will be able to answer many of your questions
directly and can signpost you to staff from specific
services, if needed. They work closely with the staff
from each service to enable them to support you.
Temporarily located on the ground floor of the Saltire
Centre, the Campus Life Desk is the first point of
contact for students and staff. We are here to help
and support your academic life at GCU.
Our friendly and helpful team is available to help you
with any query you may have such as:
• Student ID cards
• Confirmation letters
• Making appointments
2
We are also a gateway to the many services available
such as:
• Careers Service
• Positive Living & Disability
• Funding
• Visa Immigration Support & Advice
• Cultural Activities Team
The Campus Life Desk is here to help you! If you need
any assistance or have any questions please do not
hesitate to visit us.
Check out our Cultural Activities Team on
www.facebook.com/WelcomeToGCU
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
@Cultural_Activities_GCU
Contact us
Inside UK T: 0141 273 1244
Outside UK T: +44 141 273 1244
For VISA enquiries email: [email protected]
Arriving in Glasgow
Free Meet and Greet Service
Our welcome team will meet you at Glasgow
International Airport and at the University
during programme hours.
Welcome Team Ambassadors will meet and greet
you at Glasgow International Airport*. They will
guide you to public transport services and answer
general enquiries. Find our student welcome team
at the Welcome Desks – they will be wearing easily
identifiable white Glasgow Caledonian University
sweatshirts.
Please try to arrange your travel to arrive within
the times stated below to take advantage of
this service. Please register your arrival details
on the website (see below) and if they are
outwith programme times, we will make suitable
arrangements where possible.
Location
Glasgow International Airport,
International and Domestic Arrivals.
Programme dates
Friday 4th to Sunday 13th September 2015.
Welcome hours
Monday – Thursday: 9.00am – 8.00pm
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 8.30am – 9.00pm.
Cost
Free
Public transport
Our Welcome Team will guide you to the shuttle bus
that runs from the airport to the bus station in the
city. Make sure to have cash for the bus (the fare is
around £6). You may need to provide proof of student
status (i.e. offer letter) in order to obtain a student
fare. The bus station is directly across the road from
the University.
Register your arrival details at
www.gcu.ac.uk/meetandgreet
*Please note Glasgow has two airports: Glasgow
International Airport and Glasgow Prestwick Airport.
[email protected]
3
Getting to GCU
It is very easy to get to GCU. The city has two train stations – Glasgow
Central Station and Glasgow Queen Street Station – these are both within
walking distance of the University (uphill walk from Glasgow Central
Station). We also have two airports – Glasgow International Airport
(closest to Glasgow) and Glasgow Prestwick Airport.
You can visit the New2GCU website for maps and travel information
on getting to the University and Glasgow City.
Glasgow
University and colleges
A Glasgow Caledonian University
B City of Glasgow College campus
C City of Glasgow College campus
Bus station
We are here
National and regional travel
Train stations
D Central Station
E Queen Street Station
Bus station
F Buchanan Bus Station
Local and regional travel
Train stations
G Argyle Street
H Charing Cross
I Anderston
J
H
Subway stations
J Cowcaddens
K Buchanan Street
L St Enoch
K
I
L
4
Welcome desk
There are welcome areas, events and activities offering you the opportunity
to meet new people and staff, ask questions and find out information.
Student Welcome Ambassadors are on hand to tell you about events, answer questions,
provide information and literature, and guide you around the campus. They know what it is
like to be an international student in a new place and are very happy to help.
Dates:
Venue: Time: Friday 4th September 2015 to Sunday 20th September 2015
Saltire Centre Mezzanine Area
10.00am – 4.00pm every day
[email protected]
5
Welcome weekend
Saturday 5th September and Sunday 6th September 2015
Services
Social
Santander Bank
Additional opening hours
GCU Welcome Event
Sunday 6th September 2015
Venue:Campus branch, next to
John Smith’s bookshop
Time: 12.00pm – 4.00 pm
Cost: Free
Venue: Students’ Association Bistro
Time: 6.00pm – 9.00pm
Cost:Free
6
Events schedule 2015
International
Orientation Week
‘A fun week of
opportunities to
meet new people
and enjoy the
cultural attractions
of Glasgow’
Monday 7th September 2015
Glasgow City Challenge Tour
Discover your new city, challenge your friends and win prizes!
Meeting point: Time: Cost: C001, ground floor, Charles Oakley Building.
11.00am – 12.00 pm
Register for your free ticket online at
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Informal refreshments (tea, juice, crisps)
Enjoy refreshments following the City Challenge Tour.
Venue: Cost: C001, ground floor, Charles Oakley Building.
Free
Glasgow Museum Trips
Experience the beauty and cultural delights of Glasgow’s museums and
galleries: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Burrell Collection and
the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA).
Meeting point: C001, ground floor, Charles Oakley Building
Time: 1.00pm – approx. 5.00pm
Cost: Museum entry is free. GoMA can be reached on
foot and is therefore completely free of charge.
Subway fare is required for Kelvingrove and train
fare for the Burrell Collection.
Choose which trip you would like to participate
in and register for it online:
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Free time: After the museum trips, students can either head back to the University with the Welcome Ambassadors or explore the area which they are visiting. For example, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is situated in the vibrant and attractive West End of Glasgow.
© CSG CIC Glasgow Museums Collection
[email protected]
7
Games Night
Enjoy an informal evening of board games and computer games with your
new friends.
Venue: Time: Cost: Caledonian Court Social Space
6.00pm – 9.00pm
Free
Tuesday 8th September 2015
Taste of Scotland Event
Sample Scottish food, including the famous haggis!
Vegetarian options available.
Venue:Faith and Belief Centre
(ground floor of William Harley building)
Time: 12.00pm – 2.00pm
Cost: Free - please register online so that we have numbers
for catering: www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Visit to the Riverside Museum
Riverside Museum was voted European Museum of the Year 2013. It is
home to some of the world’s finest cars, bicycles, ship models, trams and
locomotives. Interactive displays and the hugely popular historic Glasgow
street scene bring the objects and stories to life.
Meeting point: Time: Cost: 8
Main Gates of the University, Cowcaddens Road (we will go by coach together)
2.00pm – approx. 5.00pm
£1, to be paid on entry at the coach
Please register online to notify us of your participation:
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Events schedule 2015
Cycle Tour of Glasgow
For this event all students should dress suitably for riding a bike. Check
the weather forecast; wearing layers is advised. A backpack would be
helpful for carrying your belongings, as the bikes do not have baskets. A
reasonable level of fitness is required to manage a three-hour cycle.
We provide the bikes, locks and helmets. Our Ambassadors are qualified
Cycle Ride Leaders and will undergo safety checks with you before you
set off. You must heed their instructions for everyone’s health and safety,
and enjoyment of the tour.
Meeting point: Time: Cost: Outside the Arc Gym
Departing from the University at 1.00pm,
returning at approximately 4.00pm.
Free – register: www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Games Night
Enjoy an informal evening of board games and computer games with your
new friends.
Venue: Time: Cost: Caledonian Court Social Space
6.00pm – 9.00pm
Free
Wednesday 9th September 2015
Faith and Belief Brunch
An informal opportunity to meet with our friendly University Chaplains
and mix with other students. Open to everyone, of all faiths and none.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Venue:Faith and Belief Centre
(ground floor of William Harley building)
Time: 11.00am – 1.00pm
Cost: Free - please register online so that we have numbers
for catering: www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Cycle Tour of Glasgow
For this event all students should dress suitably for riding a bike. Check
the weather forecast; wearing layers is advised. A backpack would be
helpful for carrying your belongings, as the bikes do not have baskets.
A reasonable level of fitness is required to manage a three-hour cycle.
We provide the bikes, locks and helmets. Our Ambassadors are qualified
Cycle Ride Leaders and will undergo safety checks with you before you
set off. You must heed their instructions for everyone’s health and safety,
and enjoyment of the tour.
Meeting point: Time: Cost: Outside the Arc Gym
Departing from the University at 1.00pm,
returning at approximately 4.00pm.
Free – register: www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
[email protected]
9
Chinese Tea Afternoon
Open to students of all nationalities. Enjoy tea and moon cakes in
celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival.
Venue:
Event Space 2, Level 0, Saltire Centre
Time: 2.00pm – 4.00pm
Cost: Free - please register online so that we have numbers
for catering: www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Film Night
Relax and watch a movie.
Venue: Students’ Association Bistro
Time: 6.00 – 9.00pm
Cost: Free
Thursday 10th September 2015
Medical and Dental Registration
Venue: Event Spaces 1 and 2, Level 0, Saltire Centre
Time: 10am – 12.00pm
Cost: Free
Safety in Glasgow
Practical advice on keeping yourself safe in the city, delivered by our
Facilities Operations Manager, Ross, formerly of Strathclyde Police.
Venue: W324, Hamish Wood Building
Time: 12.15pm – 1.15pm
Cost: Free
Royal Conservatoire of Musical Theatre Showcase
A feast of drama, singing and dance given by the exceptionally talented
RCS Masters students. Last year our international students said that the
show was ‘spectacular’!
Meeting point: Time: Cost: 10
Events Space 2, Level 0, Saltire Centre
1.30pm to walk to Conservatoire together for
hour-long show
Free but you must register at
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
as places are limited.
Events schedule 2015
International Careers & Shortbread Event
Drop in to our shortbread session and meet the International Careers
Adviser. Come and have an informal chat while experiencing the delights
of some famous Scottish shortbread!
Venue: Careers Event Space 1, Level 0, Saltire Centre
Time: 2.30pm – 3.30pm
Cost: Free
Party – Rotaract Welcomes International Students
A welcome party thrown by voluntary organisation Rotaract (part of
Rotary International). Make connections with fellow students and
young professionals. This is a social event but if you are interested in
volunteering during your time in Scotland then you can find out about
opportunities to do so with Rotaract. The first 50 students to arrive will
receive a free drink! (Non-alcoholic beverages available).
Venue:Palomino bar, 207 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HZ
(downstairs function room).
Time: 6.00 – 9.00pm
Cost: Free to attend, plus pay for your own drinks
after first complimentary one. Register online:
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Friday 11th September 2015
Sports Morning
An action-packed morning at the Arc Gym! Feel free to come to one or all
of the sessions for zumba dancing, badminton, football and basketball.
Venue:Arc Gym, large hall
Time: 10am – 11am: Dance class in one half of hall,
badminton in other half; 11am – 12pm: basketball;
12pm – 1pm: football.
Cost: Free - register online at
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Cycle Tour of Glasgow
For this event all students should dress suitably for riding a bike. Check
the weather forecast; wearing layers is advised. A backpack would be
helpful for carrying your belongings, as the bikes do not have baskets.
A reasonable level of fitness is required to manage a three-hour cycle.
We provide the bikes, locks and helmets. Our Ambassadors are qualified
Cycle Ride Leaders and will undergo safety checks with you before you
set off. You must heed their instructions for everyone’s health and safety,
and enjoyment of the tour.
Meeting point: Time: Cost: Outside the Arc Gym
Departing from the University at 1.00pm,
returning at approximately 4.00pm.
Free – register: www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
[email protected]
11
Hair and Beauty Pampering Afternoon
Relax and enjoy free mini treatments such as a manicure and hair styling,
plus refreshments. One for the ladies!
Venue:
Event Spaces 1 & 2, Level 0, Saltire Centre
Time: 2.00 – 4.00pm
Cost: Free – but places are very limited so you must register
in advance at www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Informal Drink at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut
Discover one of the most acclaimed live music venues in the world where
many famous bands started off their careers, including Oasis, Radiohead,
Florence and the Machine, as well as Scotland’s own Biffy Clyro.
Venue:King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, 272a St. Vincent Street.
Glasgow, G2 5RL.
Time: Space reserved 5.00 – 8.00pm
Cost: Pay for your own drinks.
Saturday 12th September 2015
Day Trip to Loch Lomond
See Scotland at its best with a visit to Luss and Loch Lomond Shores.
Luss is a picturesque village, with a real Scottish charm. Loch Lomond
Shores offers an outstanding mixture of leisure and shopping experiences,
overlooking the majesty of Loch Lomond at Balloch.
There are plenty of places to buy food but please do bring a packed lunch
if you have any dietary concerns. Children are most welcome but you
must register them for a ticket.
Meeting point: Main Gates of the University, Cowcaddens Road
Time:Departing from the University at 10.00am, returning at
approximately 5.00pm.
Cost:
£5 and make sure to bring spending money! You must register for this trip in advance to book a place on the bus: www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Sunday 13th September 2015
Welcome Barbecue
A sizzling celebration to round off the International Orientation Week!
This is a family event; children are most welcome. There will be Halal and
vegetarian options. Please don’t worry about rain; you will be able to eat
inside if weather is poor.
Venue:Secret Garden (between George Moore and Govan
Mbeki Building)
Time: 12.30 – 4.00pm
Cost: Free but you must register your attendance so
that we have numbers for catering:
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
12
Due to on-going construction work on campus, venues are subject to change, please keep up-to-date
by checking www.gcu.ac.uk/internationalwelcome or www.facebook.com/groups/Sept15Welcome
Email any questions to [email protected]
Dates for your diary 2015
Dates for your diary
We will have a fantastic time during the International Orientation Week but
the activities won’t end there! Freshers’ Week begins Monday 14th September –
there will be events and activities on throughout the University.
Monday 14th September 2015
Principal’s Address to Students – Professor Pamela Gillies
Course leaders within your School will notify you of details.
Tuesday 15th September 2015
New to GCU Careers
A session to help you understand the support that the Careers Service
can offer you, from early career planning to writing effective CVs for parttime jobs, internships and graduate opportunities in the UK and globally.
Venue: Careers Event Space 1, Saltire Centre, Level 0
Time: 2.30pm – 3.30pm
Tuesday 15th and Wednesday 16th September 2015
Freshers’ Fayre
Venue: The Arc gym
Time: Drop in 10.00am – 3.00pm
Remember to get your student ID card from Registry
Venue: CEE Building Level 1
Time: From 7th – 18th September 2015.
Monday – Thursday 9.30am – 6.00pm;
Friday 9.30am – 4.00pm.
On 21st September only, Registry staff will be available for card collection at
the Student Services Desk, Level 0 Saltire Centre, 10.00am – 6.00pm.
[email protected] 13
14th – 20th September 2015
Glasgow Doors Open Days
A fantastic free city-wide event celebrating Glasgow’s architecture,
people and history. There are walks, talks, tours and exhibitions on,
as well as the chance to explore over a hundred of Glasgow’s iconic
buildings. glasgowdoorsopenday.com
Wednesday 16th September 2015
Glasgow Rotaract Club Meeting
Come and find out more about volunteering and social activities with
Glasgow Rotaract; part of worldwide service organisation Rotary
International. Dress code – informal.
Venue: Palomino bar, 207 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HZ
(downstairs function room).
Time: 6.30pm start
Cost: Free
Thursday 8th October 2015
Traditional Scottish Party – Ceilidh
Delight in Scottish dancing, food, live music, prizes and much more!
Our ceilidhs are always enjoyable and popular events. Children are most
welcome.
Venue:
Time: Cost: 14
GCU Restaurant, George Moore Building
6.00 – 9.00pm
£5 per ticket. Register online:
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Dates for your diary 2015
Begins Thursday 25th September 2015
Weekly Social
Make new friends at our weekly social evening – games, snacks and chat!
Venue: Caledonian Court Social Space
Time: 5.00pm – 7.00pm
Cost: Free
Saturday 17th October 2015
Trip to Enchanted Forest - Pitlochry
It’s the event you’ve all been waiting for! We are going to visit the
beautiful Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry! A spectacle of music and light in
the woods. On the way we will stop at the wonderful Scottish Chocolate
Centre and you will have free time in the afternoon in the charming town
of Pitlochry, before the evening’s Enchanted Forest experience.
Meeting point: Time: Cost: Main Gates of the University, Cowcaddens Road 10am sharp, returning late (estimated 10.30pm)
£20
Please register online to notify us of your participation:
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
There will be lots of fun social activities throughout the year!
Information will always be posted on our official Facebook group:
www.facebook.com/groups/Sept15Welcome
[email protected] 15
1st
in Scotland
for international
student support
Source: ISB, Summer 2014 wave.
16
[email protected] 17
Important! Key Information
Student visa
Most of you will be joining GCU on a Tier 4 Student
visa. As stated on your visa there are conditions of
your immigration status – it is vital that you adhere
to these. You will be given information regarding the
conditions of your student visa during the welcome
programme. If you have any questions regarding
your visa status in the UK please contact VISA
immediately by emailing [email protected]
If you need to extend your student visa, it is essential
to contact VISA 90 days before your visa expires in
order to prepare for your visa. We will assist you with
advice and completing the online form, checking and
posting of applications. You must submit your visa
application to VISA no later than 3 weeks before your
visa expires.
It is your responsibility to ensure you have valid
leave to study within the UK and at Glasgow
Caledonian University and that you do not breach
any conditions of your visa.
Working in the UK
Your working conditions will be stated on your visa –
if you require clarification on your working allowance,
please contact VISA Team. You must not undertake
paid work during term time for more than the
permission stated on your visa i.e. 10/20 hours
per week.
18
National insurance number
In order to work in the UK, you will be required
to obtain a National Insurance Number.
See www.hmrc.gov.uk/ni for details. It is your
responsibility as a student to ensure that you adhere
to the working conditions permitted on your visa.
Registering with the police
If you are required to register with the police, this will
be clearly stated on your visa. You must do this within
7 days of arriving in the UK, so you are not in breach
of your visa conditions.
Attendance
You must attend all your classes and contact your
school if you are absent for any reason.
Re-registration
It is your responsibility to ensure you
re-register with the university as required.
Contact details
You must update the University if there are any
changes to your Visa Information and Contact Details.
It is a responsibility of your visa status to ensure
your Police Registration Certificate is accurate
and up-to-date. If you change your place of study,
course, address or visa status, you must inform the
police immediately.
Accommodation
We strongly advise you to arrange accommodation
before you arrive in the UK. It can be difficult to
source accommodation once here. Please contact our
Accommodation Office for advice: www.gcu.ac.uk/
study/undergraduate/accommodation
Healthcare
You must register with a doctor (also known as a GP)
while studying in the UK. You can visit a doctor for
all general medical problems. As a full-time student,
you and your dependants are entitled to free essential
NHS care and this includes a doctor.
We have close links with other medical services such
as dentist, opticians and family planning clinics.
If you would like any information on these services,
please contact [email protected]
You can register for a GP at our session in Events
Space 2, Level 0, Saltire Centre on Thursday 10th
September 2015, 10.00am – 12.00pm
Opening a UK bank account
We advise you to open a bank account in the UK.
If you have to extend or apply for a visa, it is an
advantage to have an account in the UK. Santander is
a University partner, their branch is on campus next
to John Smith’s bookshop.
The Santander branch has arranged additional
opening hours during our Welcome Weekend.
In order to make visa requirements easier, we advise
you set up to receive monthly bank statements and
also register for online banking.
[email protected] 19
Positive Living &
Disability Service
Our service offers FREE and CONFIDENTIAL advice and
services to ALL students at GCU.
Do you have a long term health condition or disability which might affect
your studies? Our team of Advisers can offer you advice and support so
that you are able to fully participate in university life, and perform to the
best of your ability. In the UK, we have laws and cultures which ensure
that disabled people are treated equally to those without a disability.
We hope that you will enjoy your time as a student at GCU. However,
we know that studying abroad can be difficult. If you are feeling sad,
lonely, homesick or stressed you might find it useful to speak with
a Student Counsellor, from the Positive Living Team. Counselling
can help people to feel more in control of their lives, and to feel
happier in themselves.
To find out more about our
services for International Students,
please come to the Positive Living
and Disability Service in room M136,
on the first floor of the George
Moore Building.
Also, download our FREE MOBILE
APP! You can use the App to contact
us and to find out more about us.
To download our App, go to either
of our websites, or simply scan the
code below.
For Information
www.gcu.ac.uk/disability
www.gcu.ac.uk/positiveliving
20
Careers Support for
International Students
Arriving to study at GCU is an exciting time for
you. Career planning is so important, no matter
what stage of your studies you are at or where in
the world you want to work. The careers team can
support you while you are here and help you to plan
for a brighter future.
Our team of careers advisers are professionally
qualified and we have careers partners working
alongside programme leaders in all of the Schools,
including the graduate school, so remember that we
are here for you. Workshops and presentations may
be delivered as part of your programme or through
a series of opt- in sessions.
Studying and working in Scotland
We can help you:
• Explore internships, part-time or voluntary work
while you study or during the vacation periods
• Find out about graduate opportunities
• Understand the application process and the
language used in UK graduate recruitment, along
with job search advice on the UK and global
markets
We know that many international students will
want to return to their home country, so it is equally
important that you keep connections there as well.
Careers Service Blog for International Students
Jobs and careers may not be the first thing on your
mind before you travel to GCU, but do have a look at
the International Careers Blog. This gives you basic
information to help you get by in the first few weeks:
caledonianblogs.net/careersworkinginuk/
International Careers Insight Series
This is a special series of information sessions and
workshops – free to all international students and
covers a range of topics that we just know you will be
interested in! The full programme is advertised in the
Careers Centre and further details will available on
the careers service website: www.gcu.ac.uk/careers/
Thursday 10 September 2015
International Careers & Shortbread Event
Drop in to our shortbread session and meet the
International Careers Adviser. Come and have an
informal chat while experiencing the delights of
some famous Scottish shortbread!
Venue:Careers Events Space 1, Saltire Centre,
Level 0
Time: 2.30 – 3.30pm
Tuesday 15 September 2015
New to GCU Careers
A session to help you understand the support that
the Careers Service can offer you, from early career
planning to writing effective CVs for part-time jobs,
internships and graduate opportunities in the UK
and globally.
Venue:Careers Events Space 1, Saltire Centre,
Level 0
Time: 2.30 – 3.30pm
We look forward to seeing you whenever you
are ready!
Once you are settled in GCU start to use the Careers
Service website as this is a source of really useful
information and quick links : www.gcu.ac.uk/careers/
[email protected] 21
Faith & Belief At Glasgow Caledonian University we welcome all
students and staff of any faith or none. The Faith
and Belief Centre is located on Level 0 of the William
Harley Building. The space offers Chaplain’s Office,
space with kitchen and projector screen, washing
facilities, disabled access, storage facilties, piano
and sound system throughout.
The University has a diverse and vibrant community
and we aim to celebrate this through events and
meetings on campus throughout the year. You can
visit our website for information on the facilities,
societies and events available that are open to all
students and staff.
Come along to our Faith & Belief Brunch on
Wednesday 9th September 2015 where you
can meet the Chaplaincy Team who are here to
support students’ and staff’s spiritual wellbeing
and provide guidance and support. Visit the
website for a welcome message from the team:
www.gcu.ac.uk/student/faith
[email protected] 23
Checklist
Before you arrive
After you arrive
Bring your national dress for events
Apply for your student visa
Get travel insurance
Use our Meet and Greet Service at Glasgow
International Airport:
www.gcu.ac.uk/meetandgreet
Arrange student accommodation
Visit our Welcome Desk in Saltire Centre
Register arrival details:
www.gcu.ac.uk/meetandgreet
Attend our International Orientation
Week events
Join our official facebook group:
www.facebook.com/groups/Sept15Welcome
Visit New2GCU on www.gcu.ac.uk/new2gcu
Complete your registration by collecting your
student ID card from the Campus Life Desk,
Level 0, Saltire Centre. You will need to show
your passport and visa documents
Register for our International Orientation Week
activities: www.gcu.ac.uk/internationalwelcome
Register with a doctor/GP and dentist
Register with the Police (if you are required to)
Register online following the joining instructions
sent from the Registry
Open a UK Bank Account – Santander are
available on campus
Prepare for Scottish weather i.e. waterproof
clothing and footwear
Arrange insurance for your contents
Ensure your hand luggage includes your
essentials and visa documents i.e. copies
of your passport, visa, CAS and maintenance
evidence
Apply for a National Insurance Number to allow
you to work part-time
Ensure you are aware of your student visa and
working conditions. Contact: [email protected]
for clarification
Prepare method of transferring funds to
a UK bank account in your name
Contact Cultural Activities Team for advice
in preparing to come to Glasgow:
[email protected]
Check out the Careers Service website
www.gcu.ac.uk/careers/
Register for Careers Service events,
presentations and vacancies
www.gcu.prospects.ac.uk/
24
Ceilidh
Enjoy a traditional Scottish ceilidh with a
live band, piper, refreshments and lots
of dancing! NOT TO BE MISSED!
Thursday 8th October 2015
6.00 - 9.00pm
GCU Restaurant, George Moore BUilding
£5.00 per ticket
We invite you to dress in your national costume for a chance to
win a prize; there will also be prizes for dancing.
All students, family and friends are welcome.
Register online for your ticket:
www.cultural-activities.eventbrite.co.uk
Tickets must be purchased in advance from the Cultural
Activities Team.
[email protected]
Campus Life Team
Glasgow Caledonian University
Cowcaddens Road
Glasgow G4 0BA
Contacting the Campus Life Team
Voted Number One in
Scotland for International
Student Support by our
international students in
the i-graduate International
Student Barometer
(Summer 2014 Wave).
Inside UK T: 0141 273 1244
Outside UK T: +44 141 273 1244
E: [email protected]
Join our Official Group:
www.facebook.com/groups/Sept15Welcome
© Glasgow Caledonian University 2015. Glasgow Caledonian University
is a registered Scottish charity, number SC021474. 88790_07/15
www.facebook.com/WelcomeToGCU