Student Support

John Kirby

Faculty Postgraduate Tutor

Graduate School

Faculty of Medical Sciences

Common problems• None at all

–Most common of all!– I get lonely waiting to talk to someone….

Common problems• Safety and security

– If you are new to Newcastle ask for advice from people who have been here a while• Despite appearance we were all new once!• Talk to current students• Estate security service (telephone ext 6817)

–A roof over your head• Accommodation office, colleagues etc

Common problems• Health issues

Common problems• Money worries

–For advice on grants, fees, council tax etc. first ask in the Graduate School office

Common problems• Money worries

–For advice on grants, fees, council tax etc. first ask in the Graduate School office

–Student wellbeing service• Access to learning fund, loans etc

Common problems• Money worries

–For advice on grants, fees, council tax etc. first ask in the Graduate School office

–Student wellbeing service• Loans, hardship funds etc

–Student advice service• Within the Union building

Common problems• Illness

– If you need to take time off tell the Graduate School – we can ‘stop the clock’

• Disability issues– Comprehensive support provided through the

student wellbeing service

• Personal worries– Student’s counselling service

Common problems• Your supervisor and/or project

– Don’t suffer in silence…

• Who can I talk to?– Your supervisor(s)– Your Institute Postgraduate Co-ordinator– Your progress review team – Me or anyone in the Graduate School office– The Dean, Barry Hirst

• In whatever order you choose

Common problems• What shall I do with my life?

–During your course, you will be introduced to a number of career options

–The University careers service is excellent and can provide a one-to-one service• Reviewing your CV• Interview experience

The bottom line

• Don’t keep a problem to yourself!– The university has dealt with thousands of

students – it is unlikely your problem is unique!

– Don’t be afraid to talk to someone• You can talk to male and/or female staff• We respect confidentiality

– If the Graduate School can’t help you directly, it will almost certainly be able to direct you to someone who can