Community
Integrating within the community
Keep an eye on induction events that IELLI and St Leonard's College runs, which are normally in person and online. Your School will also run welcome events; these are a great way to meet other staff members in your department. There are often online PG cafes too, so if you're a remote student, you can also participate. St Leonard's is open to suggestions as to what events they might host for PGRs, so please do get in touch with them if you have ideas.
PGRs have access to a physical space: Old Burgh School, which is a couple of minutes walk from Jannetta's. You can use this space to study or socialise. If you're a commuter, you also have access to the student commuter lounge and you can book rooms via the Resource Booker if you'd like a quiet space to work.
Societies and networks
There are lots of different societies you can join as a PGR student - from Ballroom Dancing to Films, from Doctor Who to Rock and Metal Music, and covering a wide range of faiths, cultures and charities. You can find a full list of Societies on the Student Association website.
Carers, Commuters, Mature, and Flexible Learners
The Carers, Commuters, Mature and Flexible Learners Network (CCMFL), is a subcommittee of the Students' Association, representing students with non-traditional learning pathways to and at university. They represent student carers, commuters, mature students and flexible learners.
Research Communities
Building a research community is also important.
How can you do this as a PGR? Attend research cafes in your School, attend PG forums and symposiums, and attend conferences at and outside of the university. Lots of conferences offer reduced membership fees for societies and reduced conference fees (some Schools and departments also offer funding for you to attend these). Keep an eye on the PG newsletter for information about some of these opportunities and ask your supervisors what research networks you can join and conferences you should attend. Through these opportunities, you’ll not only network with others in your field but exchange experiences and insights with peers, other PGRs and ECRs (early career researchers).
Useful Tips:
I went to a PG cafe run by St Leonard's College in the month I started. This was a great way to meet a range of other PhD students and to feel part of a wider community. I would highly recommend attending one of their events; I met one of my now closest friends there!
