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.
What does a Freshers wristband do?
Buying an official wristband from us is a great way to save money and time during the first few weeks of coming to uni. One wristband will grant you priority access to all events put on by our clubnight partner, Stonegate, who have several venues in Derby City Centre.
How do you get a Freshers wristband?
This year all new students will receive a free wristband from the University upon enrolment. If you are a returning student and don't want to miss out on the Freshers experience, you can purchase your wristband in advance. Wristbands will then be available to collect when you arrive in Derby.
How long does Freshers last?
The Freshers period starts with WelcomeFest on 16th September, and ends on Sunday 1st October. There are official events on every single day during these two weeks to help you to settle in the university life.
Is Freshers only for first years?
The primary aim for Freshers Fortnight is for the Union of Students to welcome first years to the city and the university, however all students are encouraged to get involved and attend the events.
I'm an online student, can I still come to Freshers Fair?
Definitely! Freshers Fair is open to all students so we encourage you to come along if you can.
Is Freshers week the same as welcome week?
Welcome week or Freshers Fortnight are the same thing – they are just umbrella terms for the first week or two of the new academic year at university.
Do you have to go out in Freshers week?
Freshers is a great time to make new friends and explore everything that uni life can offer, but don’t feel pressured to go out if that’s not your thing. There will be lots of other opportunities to make friends in your own time.
Is feeling lonely in Freshers week normal?
It is very common to feel lonely during Freshers. The events in Freshers fortnight are there to help new students meet new people and make lifelong friends. You can also join one of our sports clubs or societies to meet people with a common interest. If you are struggling to make friends and settle in, you can speak to one of our advisors who will be able to support you.
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?