We know there's often lots of questions on your mind when you start Uni, and the unique situation we are in currently can cause a little worry. We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions below, simply click or tap on a question to see the answer.
How do I/do I have to join the Union?
When you enrol with the University you become a member of the Union. This will give you access to all of our services, events and activities. At the point of enrolment you can opt out of your membership and you can find out more about this process in our Standing Orders.
How do I meet people?
There will be lots of opportunities to meet new people during your studies. You will meet people on your programme of course, but there are many other great ways to meet like-minded students. We suggest you take a look at our range of sports clubs or societies to find out about different groups you can join. If you have a particular interest that isn’t covered, then get in touch with us to set up your very own group.
The Union also runs a variety of events throughout the year, this starts with our Freshers programme above.
How do I log in to buy a ticket?
This year we're also working in partnership with a company called Native to offer you some great events. If you're interested in one of these events you'll be taken to our sister site derbyunion.native.fm to sign up – you'll need to create an account with them to book your tickets. You can regsiter with any email address, but we'd suggest using your Derby Unimail address if possible.
If the event you're interested in is hosted by us, you can simply log in to the site at derbyunion.co.uk/login (there will also be a link to the login page on every ticketed event hosted by us if you're not already logged in) with your student number and University password. If you’ve not got these yet, or you’ve only got them recently you may not be able to link your University and Union accounts yet, so you’ll need to create a guest account (from the same login page) to book any tickets until the accounts can be linked.
How do I know if it's an official Union event?
All Union of Students events can be found here on our official website, or on our sister site at derbyunion.native.fm. New events are being added all the time so check back regularly for the latest updates.
Do the events cost money?
Many of our online Freshers events are free to attend, but most of our evening events will have a small ticketing fee – if you plan to attend a lot of our events then buying a Wristband may reduce the overall cost for you.
Some Society or Sports Club (GIAG) events may also have a cost attached, but these will be clearly marked on the events pages when you look for more information.
Can I bring a non-student guest to an event?
Yes! You can bring up to a maximum of two guests per student to our events. You just need to sign in on the door/entrance of the event and entry will be subject to acceptable (18+ proof of age) identification.
Some Society or Sports Club (GIAG) events may also allow guests, feel free to contact the specific sports club/society for detailed information.
I’m in my third year at uni – can I come to some of the events?
Yes! All University of Derby students are welcome to attend our events!
How do I join a sports club?
We’ve got over 40 teams for you to get involved with and you can even set up something new if you think there are enough people interested.
You can find a full list of our clubs and sign upon the website. Clubs and societies offer free sessions so you can try before you join.
Do you have any non-sporting, social, groups?
Our societies help likeminded people gather and meet each other, whether you have an existing hobby or want to experience something new.
You can find a full list of our societies on the website; and if you can’t find what you are looking for you can even start your own society!
Do sports/activities cost to join?
Sports clubs and activities usually have a cost to joining to keep the club running and ensure students are safe and insured. Membership prices for each club and society will be available on the website from September.
Check out our full list of clubs and societies.
I’m struggling to settle in, is there someone I can talk to?