New Student Orientation: Embracing your Global Future
On Campus Accommodation Information
Accommodation for Visiting Families and Friends- Richmond
Heather, Shannon, Khadija and Drilona welcome new students
Orientation occurs during the week prior to the start of classes. At this time, students check in to the University, get settled into their accommodation, carry out various tasks leading to advisement and registration for courses, meet faculty and administration and, best of all, make new friends.
You will meet people from all over the world, who like yourself, have chosen to study at a small international university in one of the world's most exciting global cities. Part Orientation is the First Year Program, which will begin to help you gain global perspectives and provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills for your global career. It is crucial that all new students attend Orientation.
Academic Orientation
During the week there will be several Academic Orientation meetings that will enable you to meet faculty, be advised, register for courses, and to participate in "The First Year Reading Experience".
You are required to take placement tests in English and Maths. These tests are designed to help us place you in the English and Maths classes that are suited to your current level. English and Math are both part of Richmond's "Core Curriculum" requirements. Some students with advanced transfer credits will be exempt from these tests and will be informed upon check-in. If you do not take the tests, your registration will be delayed. You cannot study for these tests--just take them and do your best!
When you receive your test results, you will see a faculty adviser who will help you choose your courses. In your first semester, you will be taking courses in the Core Curriculum which includes a First Year Seminar. You will also take an English course and others that are directly related to your major. If you have transfer credits, you will be seen by a specialist adviser. The faculty are very helpful and will answer any questions you have at this time.
The Social Side of Orientation
In the evening and over the weekend there are activities planned to give you time to relax and meet the other new students. Most activities are free, though some may cost a few pounds. All activities are open to new students regardless of whether they live on or off of campus. These activities may include a quiz night, karaoke, a trip to the theatre, or an excursion outside of London. Full details are available at Orientation.
The Basics
Orientation also helps you with all of the essential practicalities of living on campus and in the UK such as registering to use the wireless network and library, paying your fees, registering with a doctor, and opening a bank account. The sessions that will help you learn about being a student at Richmond and living in the UK include:
- Campus Tours
- Computer and Library Orientation
- National Health Service Registration
- Safety in the City
- Living, Studying and Working in the UK
- First Year Seminars
We surveyed students and asked them to provide a list of what they couldn't live without from home and what the really could live without. Here are the results!
WHAT I COULDN'T LIVE WITHOUT
• Warm sweaters or hoodies (wool is best, but not absolutely necessary)
• A raincoat (preferably with a hood)
• An umbrella small enough to fit in your bag
• A winter coat, gloves, hats, and scarves
• A few mementos from home like a small stuffed animal or family pictures
• Bring at least one set of towels and linens & buy the rest when you come
• Favourite little snacks from home
• Tons of DVDs
• Copies of important documents: passport, loan application, acceptance letter, bank letters,
• medical records
• A pair of heels or dress shoes, sneakers, flip flops, rain boots
• Lots of socks
• If you like to party, then nice pants, dress shoes, and a collared shirt (for guys) nice dress or outfit (for girls)
• National or State ID (or passport) – you will be asked when purchasing alcohol or tobacco
• Your preference of painkillers or medicine
• Medical prescriptions
• Contact lenses (they might be cheaper back home). Contact solution is readily available here.
• Consider bringing some school supplies, although they are available for purchase here
WHAT I COULD LIVE WITHOUT
• Appliances or as non UK equipment poses a fire hazard even with the correct adapter
• Hotplates or cooking implements with open coils (Possession of these items can incur a fine of ` GBP500)
• Radios, hair dryers and other commonly used items (can be bought inexpensively in the UK… check out Argos)
• Candles, shisha pipes, incense or other smoking instruments as they are not allowed in rooms ( Possession of these items can incur a fine of GBP500)
• Shampoo and soaps (Bring some to last the first couple days, then buy the rest here)
TOP TIP Don't pack too much! Living space is a lot smaller over here!
Meals During Orientation
All meals on campus are available to ALL new students both on and off campus throughout Orientation for FREE as our way to be sure that you are welcomed by campus personnel and all our resources properly.
