The Student Room Group

Kingston Students' Union and the support they offer

Starting university is an exciting time, but it’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. That’s where Kingston Students' Union (KSU) comes in! KSU is here to make sure you’ve got all the support you need and that your time at Kingston is as enjoyable and fulfilling as possible. Whether it’s helping you out with academics, mental health, or just finding friends, KSU’s got your back.

Let’s dive into how they can help you:

Academic Support

Got questions about coursework or feeling unsure about how to handle a tricky assignment? KSU’s academic support services are a lifesaver! Every year, fellow students are elected as course reps to make sure your feedback is heard. It’s like having a direct line to your tutors for improving the courses. For example, if students find a particular module tough, the reps can push for extra tutorials or assignment guidance. Plus, if you’re struggling with a difficult situation, KSU can help you understand how to apply for things like mitigating circumstances (basically, giving you extra time or support if life throws you a curveball).

Health and Wellbeing Because Your Mental Health Matters

University life can get stressful, and KSU knows that. They organize well-being workshops, yoga classes, and mindfulness sessions to help keep stress in check. Imagine starting your week with a relaxing yoga session not a bad way to beat the Monday blues, right? If you need someone to talk to, you can access free counseling services through Kingston’s support team completely confidential.

Finding Your Home Accommodation Help

If you’re worried about finding a good place to stay, don’t be! KSU provides loads of helpful advice on finding accommodation and understanding rental agreements. They even run events to connect students looking for flatmates. So, if you’re new to Kingston and worried about house-hunting, KSU has your back to ensure you find a comfy, safe space to call home.

Money Matters Budget Like a Pro

We get it, managing money as a student can be tough. From budgeting tips to guidance on scholarships and emergency funds, KSU makes sure you’ve got the resources to stay financially afloat. If you're ever stuck, KSU is there to point you in the right direction. It’s reassuring to know you’re not alone when unexpected costs pop up!

Disability and Dyslexia Support Empowering Every Student

If you need extra support for a disability or learning difference, KSU works with the University’s Disability team to make sure you’re set up for success. Whether it’s arranging extra time during exams, providing assistive technology, or just being there to listen, KSU ensures that everyone gets an equal shot.

Faith and Spirituality A Home for All Beliefs

With a diverse student body, Kingston celebrates all faiths. There are dedicated prayer spaces and a chaplaincy for spiritual guidance, as well as events like interfaith dinners and discussions where everyone’s welcome. It’s a great way to meet people who share (or even challenge) your beliefs in a respectful and open-minded environment.

Careers and Employability Get Job-Ready

KSU’s career support is perfect if you’re thinking ahead to life after uni. They host career fairs, networking events, and workshops on topics like acing interviews and crafting the perfect CV. Ever considered joining a student society? Not only is it fun, but it also looks great on your CV, showing future employers that you’re proactive and sociable.

Welcoming International Students Your Global Home Away from Home

Coming to a new country can feel daunting, but Kingston has a thriving international community. KSU runs orientation events, cultural socials, and peer mentoring programs to help international students feel at home. Whether it’s a Diwali celebration, Chinese New Year festivities, or simply a coffee catch-up, you’ll find plenty of ways to connect.

Support for Parents and Carers Juggling Uni Life and Responsibilities

For students with caregiving responsibilities, KSU offers flexible learning options and connections to Kingston’s Student Life Centre. They know it’s not always easy to balance everything, so they’re here to make it a little more manageable.

The Bottom Line? KSU Has Your Back!

Kingston Students' Union is all about making sure that every student feels supported, heard, and included. Whether you need academic advice, mental health resources, or a fun society to join, KSU is here for you. When you come to Kingston, you’re not just enrolling at a university you’re joining a community that’s dedicated to helping you succeed, thrive, and make the most of your time here.

- Anushka
(Kingston Student Rep)
(edited 1 month ago)
What’s the most valuable support or resource KSU has provided you so far?
Original post by Anonymous
What’s the most valuable support or resource KSU has provided you so far?

Hey! 😊

For me, the most valuable support KSU has provided is the academic rep system. As a student rep, I’ve seen how it actually makes a difference. There was a module where a lot of students were struggling with unclear assignment expectations, and after raising it in a meeting, the lecturer provided more detailed guidance and even set up an extra support session. It’s one thing to give feedback, but another to actually see it lead to real changes.

Another big one for me has been the career support. I used their CV workshops while applying for placements, and the feedback was really specific—not just generic advice, but tailored to the industry I was applying for. I probably wouldn’t have caught some of the small mistakes on my CV without it.

What about you? Have you found anything particularly helpful?

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