Things get tough sometimes - but it’s important to know you’re not on your own.
If you’re struggling with something small, check out our Resources for Students page or drop a message on your year WhatsApp group. Don’t be afraid to use the office hours scheduled on your timetable. The module lead can answer specific questions, or explain parts of the course in more detail. Note - some office hours are hosted online as per student request so you may have to drop an email first!
If you are encountering serious problems - e.g. struggling with an entire module - your first point of contact should be your personal academic tutor (PAT), who you should meet with once a week. They can try and help you gain a better base understanding of the content, as well as providing overall advice about the course, its structure and what options the department offer.
Your PAT is also who you need to speak to if you’d like to discuss changing your course - alongside the Student Union who can be contacted in person, over email, or over the phone. Even course changes within Physics have to be authorised by them - and they have specific guidance and a form on their website.
If something specific is causing you issues in a course or module - don’t be afraid to let someone know. There are plenty of accessibility accommodations available, and people to speak to. Course Reps and the Physics President work closely with the department to sort out academic-only issues, the University have a Special Considerations Board for both exams and assignments, and the Student Hub and Exams Support can help put into place any lecture/exam accommodations you may need.
In the case you are having serious issues with a group or someone in particular, contact the Student Union, and let the Welfare Secretary know. If these issues happen during lab sessions, contact your Head of Labs. The University also have a ‘Harassment Contacts’ system for anyone who is being bullied/harassed. The link to this service can be found here.
The University have their own doctors - called the University Health Service. You can register online here, and the surgery is located in Building 48 on Highfield Campus. If you’re having long-term health issues, get into contact with the Student Hub to organise accommodations to make studying easier for you, or to apply for Special Consideration for assignments/exams. It’s also worth letting your PAT know what’s going on.