Embarking on the adventure of studying abroad as an international student is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for personal and academic growth. Working while studying can add tremendous value to your study abroad experience. It can enhance your overall experience, increase your employment prospects and make you feel more connected with the local area and culture. It is important to prioritise your studies and understand any visa-related employment rights and restrictions. Many international students choose to work part-time to make extra money, make friends and get invaluable UK work experience, which can improve future job prospects. Working part-time while studying has many benefits, but it also requires careful planning and organisation to strike a balance between work and studies. Here are some tips to help you navigate this balancing act effectively:

Working a job that is flexible

Having a flexible job is good because you can pick up or drop hours depending on your needs. Some weeks you may be busier at university, and some weeks may be quieter, it’s important to have a flexible job.

It is also a good idea to reduce your working hours during the assessment/exam period, so your studies can be your soul focus.

During peak academic periods such as assessments or exams, consider reducing your work hours to alleviate pressure and allow dedicated time for studying. Your studies should always take precedence during these critical times.

Moderate Your Work Hours

While the temptation to work more hours for extra money may be strong, it’s essential to prioritise your well-being. However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that as a Student Route visa holder, your work entitlement is linked with the level of study and the type of degree you are enrolled in.

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Here’s a breakdown of the regulations for students studying at the Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ:

For individuals under other visa categories, such as PBS dependants, ILR holders, Visitors, Short-term students, etc., your vignette Biometric Residence Permit, or eVisa will specify whether you are permitted to work.

If you are a dependant of a Student Route visa holder studying at the Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ, you are allowed to work. However, if you are in the UK on a visitor route or short-term study route visa, you are not permitted to work, volunteer, or engage in work placements.

Utilise Holiday Breaks

Make the most out of your longer holiday breaks to work full-time to earn extra money and gain work experience. As an undergraduate student, you can use the longer summer holidays to save money for the upcoming academic year. ÌýBy planning your work schedule around university holidays, you can be more focused on your studies during term time.

If you are a postgraduate student, your full-time work options are limited due to the nature and length of the degree. You can usually work full-time during the university’s winter and spring breaks as well as after completing your studies.

Make sure you’re organised

University assignments, a job and your social life can be tricky to balance. Keeping organised can be useful to not feel overwhelmed and know what you’re doing each day. A weekly planner is a good tool for writing the days you have lectures and when you’re working.

If you’re ever struggling with money or would like some advice, Chichester University has a great Student Money team that can help with issues such as budgeting and money management.

They can be contacted via studentmoney@chi.ac.uk

Tap into University Resources

Chichester University also offers an invaluable (and FREE!) Careers and Employability Service. Whether you want, CV advice, career support, or anything employment-related, the careers team are on hand to advise and support you.

In addition, our International Advice team can help you understand what it means to have a student visa and how this impacts your employment opportunities during and after your studies. The team offer information on post-study work visa options, for example, the Graduate Route visa, which allows you to stay in the UK for 2 years to work after you successfully complete your studies.

Careers Fairs

The university also hosts careers fairs on both campuses which is a great way to explore the employability opportunities in the local Chichester and Bognor Regis areas.

Work placements

As a Student Route visa holder studying full-time at a degree level or above you can take part in a work placement as long as it is an integral and assessed part of the programme.

Please take a look at our Student Route Visa & Employment rules to have a comprehensive overview of our rules and regulations regarding student visas.

In conclusion, while juggling work and studies as an international student may present its share of challenges, with proper planning and utilisation of available resources, you can achieve a harmonious balance between the two. By prioritising flexibility, moderation, and organisation, supplemented by university support services, you can navigate this journey with confidence and success. Remember, your academic pursuits are your priority, and a balanced approach ensures a fulfilling and enriching student experience.

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University can be stressful and it’s important to consider how we can look after ourselves during these times. This week is Mental Health Awareness Week which, this year, focuses on movement. Here we will discuss a couple of ways we can incorporate movement and other techniques to help reduce stress and look after ourselves better.

The Magic of Exercise.

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Movement has been shown to help our mental health and it can be very fun!

If you’re not a regular gym goer, finding ways to get moving can feel a little overwhelming but no fear! Movement, although great for many, does not have to involve getting a gym membership. Movement can look different for everyone and can include activities such as sports, taking a stroll, or having a go at yoga, it is completely up to you.

To make movement and looking after your mental health more energising, why not create a playlist of your favourite songs to help you feel motivated and raring to go?

Getting Out in Nature.

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Understandably, many of us sit for hours at a time staring into the void of our phones and laptop screens but – as science has proven – getting outside can improve our mood and wellbeing behaviours such as improving our sleep quality.

One study investigated the power of nature. They found that those who could see a green space from their window recovered from illness faster than those who did not. This proves getting yourself out in nature is all worth the while.

If you find yourself feeling anxious or stressed, why not consider a walk or picnic perhaps with your friends or a book for company while you unwind and disconnect for a while?

Making Sense of it All.

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Many of us feel as though our minds are buzzing with thoughts, worries and tasks on our to-do lists but have you ever given journalling a go? Writing our thoughts down can give us clarity and help us think about our worries more clearly.

Perhaps, if you feel overwhelmed, try scribbling all those thoughts down from time to time. Read it back – what advice would you give if your friend were to confide in you with the same worries?

If you don’t fancy yourself a writer, art and crafts are alternative ways in which you can express how you feel when it may be hard to put into words. Why not pop down to a session run by our Mental Health Ambassadors such as Book Club or Crochet & Chat to learn a new skill or unwind?

Other Services and Support.

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Sometimes, however, we need to reach out for further support. In this case, the university Wellbeing team are here to support you at chiwellbeing@chi.ac.uk.

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Moving to University

Moving to uni and finding a place where you’ll be happy to live can sometimes feel daunting, so here’s a quick guide on making the move!

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Packing what you need:

It can be easy to pack your entire wardrobe but you will need to think carefully about what you can take, there are things that you think you will need but won’t end up using and they will just take up space. Split your packing into categories to help you figure what you need, for example:

• Bedroom
• Bathroom
• Kitchen
• Study

Remember, you’ve also got to transport all your things to uni, so packing light is always worth it. You can always go back home if you need extra items or buy anything you’ve forgotten once you’re settled in.

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Once you arrive at uni:

When you get to your accommodation, unpacking first is always a good idea so you can start to feel at home straight away. Tackle your room first, then move on to dividing up what you need in the kitchen, – you’ll also be able to see what the uni has supplied for you already like kettles, microwaves etc. Afterwards, its time to get your first food shop so you can refuel after all that moving and get sorted to see you through fresher’s week!

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Meet your flatmates!

Now is the time for you to relax and socialise! You’ll be living with your flatmates for the year, so it’s important to get to know them. Fresher’s week is a great opportunity to become friendly with your flatmates and go out together to Students’ Union events and take part in Freshers Fair and Welcome Week.

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Explore the local area!

Once you’ve moved into your accommodation make sure to explore the local area with your flat-mates. It’s not only a great way to bond but it’s also very reassuring to know that you’re not the only one navigating the new surroundings. You can start to get a feel for what it is like living in a new place and where the local shops, restaurants, cafes and bars are.

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Your first week of studies:

You’ll have some time to settle in to living here before term starts so it’s always a good idea to check you have all your study supplies and are clear on your timetable beforehand. During your first week you’ll get to know more about the course, the modules for the year, meet your lecturers and start to make friends with your course mates too. It is always a great idea to organise to meet up outside of studies during the first few weeks to get to know each other properly!

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How to prepare for university over the summer

So, you’ve made your UCAS application, finished your A-Levels and are now relaxing on your well-deserved break over the summer. But you might be thinking, what do I need to do before uni! Don’t panic, here’s your guide to everything you need to know before starting uni in the autumn.

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Chat to others

• It can be good to chat to other students starting uni in September, it will make it easier when starting if you know a few people. You can also chat about all things related to your course and to the uni.
• Have a look on Facebook and other social media sites to connect with others.
• You can also follow the university’s social media sites such as @UniversityofChichester and @ucsu_offical on Instagram.

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Practice your cooking skills

• It’s good to brush up on your culinary skills over the summer ready for uni.
• Learning some basic recipes will be useful for when you need something nutritious to eat.
• Living on ready meals and takeaways may sound good, but in the long run, it’s better to cook your own meals!
• It’s also a good way to impress your flatmates!

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Working over the summer

• While you’ve got some time off, working to earn some money may be a good idea to save for uni.
• Lots of students don’t prioritise a part time job in the first term while they are getting used to the university.
• So, it may be good to make the most of the break by working a summer job.
• You might also be able to keep your job so you can work there in the holidays when you’re back home.

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Deciding what to take

• Look at what your accommodation already provides as to avoid purchasing unnecessary items.
• It’s good to sort your belongings into categories so you remember what to take.
• You can always go back home if you forget something, so only take what you need.

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Tips for bonding with flat-mates & course-mates during your 1st year:

• Explore the local area together during fresher’s week. For example, go to the beach in Bognor, or visit Chichester town and the city’s cathedral.
• Attend fresher’s fairs and sign up for clubs & societies together and bond over shared interests.
• Cook, or go to the canteen with your flat-mates.
• Have a group social, go to the SU, or have flat film night.
• Take the time to get to know your course peers and build friendships. This will make the rest of your university experience far more fun and enjoyable.
• Don’t be afraid to talk to a flat-mate or the wellbeing team about feeling home-sick, you’re not alone.
• Make a rota for keeping communal areas clean and tidy.

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Most importantly, relax! You’ve worked hard and you deserve a break!

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How to choose the right accommodation for you

The University has a variety of accommodation types to suit everyone across the Chichester and Bognor Regis campuses. Picking the right accommodation is important as this is where you’ll be living throughout the year, it is important that you feel comfortable and at home where you are staying!

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Here are the different categories that accommodation falls under:

• On and off campus
• Catered or self-catered
• En-suite or shared facilities
• The license period (how long your lease is)

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Some points to consider when choosing the right accommodation for you:

• On-campus is super convenient when getting to your lectures, the SU and the library, however some people may want a bigger difference between their study and life environment.

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• Off-campus will usually mean being closer to the city, you may prefer the greater independence and separation from your studies.

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• Really consider whether you’d prefer shared or en-suite facilities in university halls. It’s a decision between cheaper rent and shared facilities, or spending more for a private bathroom.
• You will also have to consider which campus you want to live on if you select on-campus halls as you don’t have to live on the campus where your course is based. You can select either the Bishop Otter Campus in Chichester or Bognor Regis Campus.
• Living on the same campus as your course is convenient but the FREE university bus service allows you to commute between campuses if you’d prefer to live in a different location! It may also depend on your timetable and how often you have to commute in for lectures and classes.

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This year’s BRIT challenge focuses on wellbeing. The mental health ambassadors at the university wanted to share some ways to improve wellbeing as a student.

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1. Explore the world around you

There’s lots of benefits to spending time outdoors and in nature, from reducing loneliness and stress to improving confidence. You could engage with nature by gardening, or bird watching, or smelling the flowers. If exercise is more your thing going for a run or bike ride in nature is a great way to support your wellbeing. Meditating or taking part in other mindfulness exercises in nature can also help reduce stress and improve your wellbeing.

2. Sleep well

Make sure you are getting enough sleep by setting regular sleep and wake cycles. Spend time to wind down before bed to make sure you can get a good night’s sleep, this could be by spending some time reading, reducing screen time or doing a relaxing activity before bed. If you find it hard to relax before bed, it can help to write a to-do list for the next day to help you to switch off and relax.

3. Social time

Spending regular time with friends, family and pets is important for wellbeing, as well as having alone time to relax and do things you want to do. Make sure you have time to catch up with the people close to you and plan things you enjoy, as well as taking opportunities to meet new people.

4. Spend time doing things you enjoy

Its easy to forget to spend time relaxing and doing enjoyable activities when you are at university. Spending lots of time studying is essential… but so is making sure you have regular breaks. Picking up an old hobby, or learning something new is a great way to have a break from study – or you could try playing a game, volunteering or playing an instrument.

If you want to meet some new people in a laid-back setting, you could join the mental health ambassadors who host a variety of settings on campus, email peersupport@chi.ac.uk or follow the @chiuniwellbeing Instragram page for updates.

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My name is Tom and I studied Sports Media at The Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ between 2017 to 2020.

The Sports Media course at Chichester was a perfect set up for how working in my specific industry would be. It was a great way to build up the confidence in working with external clients and building a strong portfolio, whilst working in multiple different avenues as a videographer, editor and graphic designer, and building those skills to make myself an all-rounder.

I received great opportunities whilst studying my course. Ian Worden was brilliant for all of us, he had some great contacts at Chichester City and allowed us the brilliant opportunity to follow the team and their triumph in the FA Cup! He also gave us the foundations to work with the university sport clubs, allowing us to build up our skill set.

I am currently a graphic designer for Manchester City Football Club. My work alters day to day, one day I could be creating new branding for the whole club’s identity across social media, the next day I could be working with Erling Haaland and Jack Grealish, directing them for photoshoots that can help us further down the line. I work in a team of 13 designers, there is tonnes of work and can change day to day. I see my team working on promotional content for Netflix Documentaries, transitions and branding for Live Matches and much more!

I spent the first-year post university volunteering at a multitude of football clubs, working freelance and building on my portfolio as much as possible. I also worked for a Football Academy creating content for different media channels and websites. After that, I worked for a graphic design agency in London that worked with several sports betting companies, particularly focusing on Horse Racing. I then started working for Watford Football Club and spent a year and a half working as a designer for them, alongside freelance work for Puma.

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I think my proudest moment is getting a dream job for the Champions of the World, Manchester City.

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The most exciting part of my job is being able to work for one of the biggest brands in the worldÌýand seeing everything that goes on behind the scenes to make Manchester City the great club that it is. Also seeing some of the best athletes interacting with content you have created it pretty cool!

My biggest advice to anyone is to do as much as you can for as many people as you can. It’s hard to at first but putting in those first steps of work can help so much, and being able to showcase a strong portfolio is only beneficial. I’d also encourage as many interview processes as possible, I applied for so many roles that I wasn’t qualified for, but it allowed me to understand what I needed to do in order to be at the stage that was required!

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Do as much as you can for as many people as you can!

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-Tom, Sports Media alumni

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For university mental health day, the mental health ambassadors wanted to share some tips and advice on how to talk to someone about mental health. Talking is a very valuable tool and we should all aim discuss mental health more openly.

It’s important to talk about mental health, it’s just as important as our physical health and if you feel something isn’t right, it’s important to reach out for help. Starting conversations face-to-face can be daunting and hard for people but there are alternatives such as video calling, talking on the phone, or even by text. These are all great ways to start the conversation.

In terms of talking to someone who you think may be struggling with mental health, there’s a few things you can do to make the conversation more comfortable and open. Firstly, make sure that if you are approaching a person to talk about mental health, you pick a time when both you and the individual are relaxed and open-minded and are ready to have the conversation.ÌýMake sure it’s a time when you and the individual are free and not time limited (for example about to go to a meeting or a lecture).

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Remember it’s okay not to be okay.

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You should also make sure you choose a place with minimal distractions; you don’t want to start discussing mental health in the middle of a busy room or when everyone is sitting down for a meal together. Sometimes writing down things you want to talk about can also help make starting the conversation easier. Another tip is to make sure to listen to the person talking, if they don’t feel like you are paying attention to them then they will be less likely to share what’s on their mind.

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Be kind to yourself.

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Make sure that you reassure the person that you won’t disclose what they have told you with others (unless the person is in danger/at risk). Reassure them that you are there for them and if they want to tell you anything at any time, you are there to listen if they need to talk.

If you feel like you want to talk to someone about your own mental health, the above tips can also be used to start a conversation with someone.

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We are here to support your wellbeing at the university.

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If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health don’t forget there’s lots of support available through the university by accessing wellbeing services or speaking to mental health ambassadors who can signpost you to support services.

Email address: peersupport@chi.ac.uk

-Mental Health Ambassadors

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Volunteering is a great way to spend your free time, it is good for you, for the community and will help you to stand out to employers.

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Benefits

• You can gain valuable experience and depending on where you volunteer, you may be able to tailor it to a career you would like after university and gain examples for your CV.
• Volunteering can help to develop your skills. Skills such as time-management and teamwork are really important in the workplace, so its useful to start practising them now.
• You will also meet new people and learn more about the community you live in. Helping out with causes close to you is a great way to give back.
• It is also a good way to bridge the gap between university and the workplace after graduating.

Places to look for volunteering:

• – A national volunteer charity which you can use to search volunteer opportunities near you.
• – A charity based in Chichester helping to prevent homelessness.
• Chichester and Bognor have lots of charity shops on the high streets who are always looking for volunteers.

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Chichester, a city steeped in history and nestled on the southern coast of England, offers more than just picturesque landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Chichester, although small, is home to the Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ, providing students with a close-knit academic community and a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.

As a student who’s lived and studied here for 3 years now, let me take you on a short tour of the delightful city, beyond textbooks and deadlines, into the heart of what makes Chichester a student haven.

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The City After Dark: Chichester’s Nightlife Unveiled

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So, after a day of classes and exploring, where does a student in Chichester head for a good time?

Pubs in Chichester:

Chichester boasts a range of pubs with over 15 inside the city walls, each with its unique charm. Here are some of my favourites:

Situated in the heart of Chichester,ÌýThe Nags HeadÌýis a traditional English pub offering a range of local and international beers. With its warm and friendly ambience, it’s a great place to gather with friends for a pint or two. It’s also home to one of my favourite Sunday roasts in Chichester!

The EscapistÌýis a Micropub right in the heart of Chichester that’s independently run. They specialise in a huge variety of Craft beer and Artisan drinks. It’s the perfect in-between of a traditional pub and a late-night bar, making it the perfect spot for some social drinks.

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The wonderfully traditional Greene King Inn sits at the heart of historic Chichester providing freshly prepared, irresistible food all day, every day. Grab a drink and get comfy.

Steeped in history,ÌýThe Fountain InnÌýis a quintessential English pub with a charming atmosphere. With its traditional pub menu and well-kept ales, it offers a taste of old-world charm for those seeking a cosy night out.

The Duke & RyeÌýis one of my favourite pubs in Chichester, where you get expectÌýgreat food, drink and often live entertainment. Situated in an ex-revival stone church, it’s a very picturesque pub full of history. They often do great deals on Cocktails and sometimes offer special student discounts on their Facebook page, making it a hotspot for many local students.

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Dance the Night Away:

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Chichester’s nightlife scene doesn’t disappoint.Ìý,ÌýÌýand theÌý, best described as pub clubs all offer lively atmospheres, with DJs spinning tunes that keep the dance floors packed until the early hours. With regular events and student nights, you won’t be short of options for a really good night out!

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My top attractions for young people in Chichester:

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Chichester isn’t just about the nights; there’s a whole world to explore during the day. Ever wondered about the stories Chichester Cathedral could tell? It’s not just a landmark; it’s a peaceful space where you can soak in centuries of history….

Explore Chichester Cathedral:

Discover the rich history and beautiful architecture ofÌý. It’s not only a cultural landmark but also a peaceful space for reflection.

Chichester Festival Theatre:

Check out the diverse range of performances, from plays to musicals, at theÌý. Students can access offers for those agedÌýbetween 16-30 Prologue with ticketsÌýfor as little asÌý£5 without any membership fees! There’s also 10% off all food and drink in the café if you show your student ID. Find out moreÌý.

Visit Oxmarket Contemporary Gallery:

Art enthusiasts can exploreÌý, which is a volunteer-run charity which hosts more than 150 high-quality exhibitions a year and is a hub for artists and designers. Oxmarket Contemporary is located in St Andrew’s Court, off East Street, in central Chichester and is also free of charge. This is near the centre of town and very easily accessible.

Take a Stroll atÌýChichester Harbour:

Enjoy the scenic beauty ofÌý. Chichester Harbour is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and is an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). Take a walk along the shoreline admiring the twisted, wind-blown trees, have a picnic, or try out water sports if you’re feeling adventurous or you can even do a harbour tour. You can get the stagecoach Route 53 from Chichester toÌýÌýand walk from there to the harbourside.

Trendy Thrift & Charity Shop Finds in Chichester:

Now, let me spill the beans on Chichester’s best-kept secret – our Thrift and Charity shops. Chichester’s vibrant thrift and charity shop scene is a treasure trove for students seeking unique, budget-friendly fashion. Here are some of my personal favourites ….

Oxfam Boutique (East Street):

A standout among Chichester’s thrift shops, Oxfam Boutique on East Street offers a curated selection of second-hand clothing, accessories, and vintage items. Students flock here for its trendy yet affordable options, with proceeds supporting Oxfam’s charitable initiatives.

Chestnut Tree House Charity Shop (North Street):

Nestled on North Street, this charity shop is a local favourite. Students can discover hidden gems, from chic clothing to quirky accessories. Shopping here not only adds to your wardrobe but also supports Chestnut Tree House’s vital work with children and families.

Cancer Research UK (East Street):

Situated on East Street, the Cancer Research UK thrift shop is a must-visit for those searching for budget-friendly fashion. With regularly updated stock, students can explore racks filled with stylish clothing and accessories while supporting cancer research initiatives.

St. Wilfrid’s Hospice (North Street):

St. Wilfrid’s Hospice on North Street offers a wide selection of second-hand clothing and accessories. Students exploring this thrift shop will discover not only trendy finds but also contribute to the hospice’s compassionate care for those with life-limiting illnesses.

Embarking on a thrift shopping adventure in Chichester will allow you to curate a wardrobe that reflects your unique style while also supporting charitable causes. These thrift and charity shops are not only fashion-forward but also socially responsible, making them go-to spots for students seeking trendy, sustainable finds.

South Downs Escapes:

Being here for three years has allowed me to discover the hidden gems around Chichester, like West Wittering Beach with its sandy shores and clear blue waters. Butser Hill, which is just over the county border in Hampshire, andÌýÌýhill – these aren’t just names; they’re gateways to breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.

West Wittering Beach:

Located in the southwest of Chichester,ÌýÌýis renowned for its sandy shores and clear blue waters. It is a popular destination for sunbathing, beach games, and water sports. The beach offers stunning views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs in the background. There are aÌýÌýrun by Stagecoach, which make it easy to get to (plus journeys are capped at £2 making it affordable).

Butser Hill:

This is the highest point in the South Downs National Park. The climb to the summit rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including the Meon Valley, South Downs and beyond. On a clear day, the Isle of Wight can be visible in the distance!! To travel in the summer months, take a train to Petersfield and make use of the 37/38 Bus route to Clanfield where you can begin your walk.

The Trundle:

Ìýis another popular destination, withÌýa well-marked trail leading to the top of the hill. Once at the top, it provides hikers and walkers with panoramic views of the Chichester area, including Chichester Cathedral and the Chichester Harbour. Similar to Butser Hill, on clear days even the Isle of Wight can be visible in the distance. TheÌýÌýbus to West Dean or Singleton will get you to withinÌýaÌýshort hike to The Trundle.

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So, that’s a glimpse into my life in Chichester. If you’re curious for more insider tips and stories, explore further on website for more adventures in and around Chichester.

By Dan Goodwin

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