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Summer Semester Pre-arrival guide 2014 Welcome to Liverpool John Moores University

Summer Semester Pre-arrival info guide 2014

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Page 1: Summer Semester Pre-arrival info guide 2014

Summer Semester Pre-arrival guide 2014

Welcome to Liverpool John Moores University

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liverpool john moores university

Liverpool John Moores University

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Welcome to Liverpool John MooresUniversityWe are a university where diversity is valued, endeavour is supported andachievement is celebrated and you will receive every encouragement to fulfilyour potential while you are a student at LJMU.

Our Pre-Arrival Information Guide for Summer Semester Students has beenproduced to provide you with information and advice to help you to prepare foryour stay in Liverpool. It will also provide you with helpful hints and contacts touse once you have arrived in the UK.

We understand the challenge you are undertaking leaving your home countryto come to study in the UK. If you have any questions or need help withanything, please do not hesitate to ask. We are here to help you.

Your main contact for the Summer Semester programme is Mrs. Maureen Evans who can be contacted via email at [email protected]

Alternatively you can check the website for lots of valuable information:

www.ljmu.ac.uk/partnership/SummerSemesterProgramme

We wish you well with your studies at Liverpool John Moores University andlook forward to welcoming you to Liverpool.

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Travel Arrangements

In order to attend the Induction programmes taking place on Tuesday 27th May andWednesday 28th May, you are advised to arrive in the UK on either Friday 23rd MaySaturday 24th May or Sunday 25th May 2014.

LJMU will provide a free airport pick up service from Manchester airport if youarrive on any of the above dates between the hours of 9.00am – 5.00pm.

Our free Manchester airport pick up service also includes the services of our friendlystudent guides who will:

• Meet you at the airport terminal• Help you with your luggage• Provide you with valuable information on your journey to the accommodation• Help you settle in at your accommodation upon arrival

In addition to our student guides a member of LJMU academic staff will also be atthe airport to welcome you and help with any problems that may arise.

To book a place on this free service you will need to advise us as soon as you havefinalised your flight details on the standard arrival proforma and email it direct [email protected]

The proforma will be sent to you via email and is also available on the summersemester website. www.ljmu.ac.uk/partnership/SummerSemesterProgramme

You must advise us of your flight details by 7th May 2014 at the latest in order tosecure a place on the coach.

If you are arriving at any other UK airport and are making your own arrangementsto get to the accommodation, you must still advise us of the details on the standardproforma. This is so we can ensure your rooms are available upon arrival at theaccommodation providers.

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Train and coach stations will be clearly sign posted at the airports, or you can askat the information desks.

To make arrangements for your onward journey train service, information is availableat www.nationalrail.co.uk and coach services at www.nationalexpress.co.uk.

You should go straight to the accommodation upon arrival in Liverpool. The address is:

Liberty Atlantic PointNaylor StreetLiverpoolL3 6LS.

Contact details ~ 0151 500 0000

The security lodge in manned 24 hours, 7 days a week so there will always besomeone there whenever you arrive.

Please note – you must vacate the accommodation by 10.00am on 5th September2014. Extensions to this date will not be allowed so please take this into accountwhen booking your flight home.

LJMU will also provide coaches on 5th September 2014 for your departure journeyfrom the accommodation to Manchester airport only. Details of this procedurewill be advised via the email listserver a couple of weeks before departure.

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Visa Information

Please be aware that immigration rules can change. We strongly recommend thatyou check that information you hold about visa requirements is accurate at the timeof your visa application. Immigration law is complex ~ do not take advice aboutvisas or immigration matters from anyone who is not qualified to give it.

We recommend that you refer to the following office/websites for the most up todate information:

UK Border Agency http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk/

Malaysia WWW.VFS-UK-MY.COM [email protected]

SingaporeHTTP://UKINSINGAPORE.FCO.GOV.UK/EN/VISITING-UK/VISAS/

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Laws which affect your entry into Britain

Customs allowances

When you arrive at a British port or airport, you will pass through Immigration andCustoms. Customs control the type and amounts of all goods that are brought intoBritain. There are strict laws on what can and cannot be brought into the UK. Pleasesee the following website for some advice:

www.hmrc.gov.uk/customs/arriving/arrivingnoneu.htm.

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Baggage and travel insurance

If you exceed baggage weight restrictions, you may have to pay a considerableamount of money. Typically passengers are allowed 20 kg plus hand luggage. Somecharter flights only allow 15 kg plus hand luggage, so do check beforehand.

You will usually be offered the chance to buy travel insurance when you book yourairline ticket. It is worthwhile investing this small sum to save yourself time andmore money should you need to replace lost items.We strongly recommend thatyou take out travel insurance cover before travelling to the UK. Your travel agentwill be able to advise you.

Remember to make a list of everything you pack, so that if your luggage is lost youcan account for lost items. If you have bought anything new before your journey,remember to keep the receipts - the insurance company may ask you to providethem for items lost in transit. In the unlikely event that your baggage is delayedwhen you arrive into the UK, it is also a good idea to pack any essential overnightitems in your hand luggage, i.e. toiletries, change of clothing etc.

It is advisable to make a note of the following and keep this information separatefrom the originals:

• Your passport number, its date and place of issue• The serial number of your bankers draft or travellers cheques• The serial number of valuables such a laptops, mobile phones etc• Information about your credit cards and travel documents

REMEMBER TO KEEP ALL IMMIGRATION DOCUMENTS ANDOTHER IMPORTANT PAPERS IN YOUR HAND LUGGAGE.

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Money

It is advisable to bring with you a small amount of cash (e.g. £100 sterling) to coveryour immediate needs on arrival in the UK. A bankers draft – made payable toyourself to cover your living expenses for the duration of your stay, (this will beused to open your bank account in the UK).

Once you have opened a bank account in the UK, your parents / sponsor will beable to transfer funds to your account by telegraphic transfer. Please rememberthat you should allow at least a week from opening an account and paying in yourbankers draft before you can draw cash from the account.

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Healthcare

International students staying in the UK for less than six months are only entitledto free emergency treatment under the National Health Servive (NHS).

LJMU have taken out medical insurance cover on your behalf. Before you arrive inthe UK, you are required to advise us of any pre-existing medical conditions youhave. We will advise the insurer about the condition and seek their approval of coverfor you. We will contact you via email for this information and advise you of theinsurers decision.

Before leaving your home country we recommend that you should have thefollowing vaccinations:

• Measles, Mumps and Rubella• Meningitis• Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB)

NB If you travel to the UK to study at LJMU against medical advice you willnot be covered by the LJMU insurance policy.

There will be a charge for any non emergency medical assistance. You will need tokeep all receipts so you can claim on the policy at the end of the programme. Pleasebe aware ~ there is an excess on this policy of £50. In the case of an emergency full contact details will be provided in your welcomepack and will be circulated via the email group.

The following services will carry charges:• Medication from a pharmacy that has been prescribed by a doctor. Each item willcost £7.85 (Oct 2013.)• Non-emergency NHS hospital treatment. This would include follow-on treatmentafter an emergency treatment.

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Chemists (pharmacies) are open generally from 9am - 5pm with the some storesbeing open until 8.00pm.

Remedies for minor illnesses such as headaches and colds are available from highstreet chemists, most supermarkets and some other shops, such as newsagents.They are available without a prescription from your doctor. If you are not sure whatmedication to take, rather than visiting a doctor, you can get advice from a qualifiedpharmacist at any chemist.

You can also contact NHS Direct, a 24-hour phone line, staffed by nurses, whichoffers quick access to health care advice. NHS Direct nurses will give you adviceand support on self treatment, or if you need further help they will put you in touchwith the right service. If it is a serious condition or an emergency, the nurse willgive you speedy advice on what you need to do, and will call an ambulance ifneeded. You can find information and advice about the most common illnesses,and a range of treatments for them, on the NHS Direct website or by phoning NHSDirect on 0845 4647 (calls are charged at a local rate from the UK only).

www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/

www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/About/UsingNHSDirectOnlineServices

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Arriving in the UK

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How to pass through immigration

On arrival at a British port or airport, students from overseas will be asked toproduce the following documentation by the Immigration Officer:

• Passport - valid for one year or more• Evidence of financial support (a bankers draft for your living expenses whilst youare in the UK) • Most recent letter of acceptance /offer letter from Liverpool John MooresUniversity• Most recent examination results ~ originals or certified copies• Receipts to prove that you have paid the university tuition fee

You could be refused entry into the UK if you do not have the above documentation.

The immigration officer will check all your documents and stamp the visa page ofyour passport.

If you have any problems at the airport you can seek help from the LJMU memberof staff and/or the student guides.

How to collect your baggage

After passing through Passport Control, you will be able to collect your Baggage.The baggage area can be quite confusing, as luggage from different flights comesthrough at the same time.

The luggage comes through on a carousel system and at each carousel there is asign indicating the flight number and departure point of the plane whose luggageis being unloaded there.All you have to do is find the appropriate carousel and wait.

It will help if you have clearly marked your luggage so that it is easily identified.When you have all your luggage, load it onto a luggage trolley and move on.

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How to pass through customs

In most airports in Britain you will find three channels one of which will be applicableto you. There is one sign in red, one in green, and another in blue:

BLUE: The blue channel is for people whose journey originated within the EuropeanUnion (EU).

GREEN: The green channel is for people who are sure they have no goods todeclare. It is subject to random checks by a Customs Officer.If you are travelling from outside the EU, and have nothing to declare, you shouldgo through this channel.

RED: The red channel should be used if you are carrying items that need to bedeclared. If a Customs Officer asks you to open, unpack and repack your own luggage, youare required by law to do so.

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Making telephone calls

Once you have arrived in Britain, you may want to make a telephone call, it isimportant to let your family know that you have arrived safely.

British telephone numbers are preceded by an area code written in brackets. Forexample the area code for Liverpool is (0151).

The number for Emergency Services in the UK is 999 and this is a free phonenumber.

For international calls, you will need to add the international prefix 00 followed bythe country code that you are calling.

If you have any problems getting through, call 155 for the international operator. International directory enquiries is 118 505

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Handbags and luggage

Please remember to carry wallets/purses and any important documentation on yourperson, in a jacket, or in a handbag.

Never leave any of your luggage unattended, and do not allow anyone else to carry itfor you. If you have any other valuables, such as jewellery or cameras, remember tokeep a record of serial numbers. Do inform the local police if you lose any valuableitems.

DocumentsPlease remember to keep your passport, travel tickets and important documents in asafe place. It is sensible to have a photocopy of your passport in a separate safe place,this will make it far easier to replace should the need ever arise.

Lost property officesShould you lose any of your luggage during your journey, it is important to notify theofficials of your airline immediately. The student helpers on duty at the airport will beable to assist you. If you lose anything in the airport or railway station, go immediatelyto the Lost Property Office, as it may already have been found and handed in.

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Arrival in the UK

Once you arrive at Manchester airport you will be met by members of the academicteam and some student guides who will be past Summer Semester students.

You will be guided onto coaches for your journey to the halls of residence inLiverpool which will take approximately one hour. Once on the coach the studentguides will advise you of your room number which you will need to remember toadvise the staff upon arrival at the halls of residence. The student helpers will alsogive you lots of useful information and tips on life at LJMU and Liverpool.Remember - they have been through the same experience that you are about toundertake and will have some good tips to pass on to you. If you have any questionsor problems please speak to the student guides, they will advise you if they areable or will direct you to the member of LJMU staff most able to help you.

Upon arrival at the halls both LJMU staff and staff from the accommodationproviders will be there to check you into your rooms and deal with anyproblems/queries you may have. You will receive an information pack which willcontain lots of valuable information that will help you during your time with us - somake sure you take time to read it.

Please ensure you bring a passport size photo with your name and course printedon the reverse of the photo with you to give to the accommodation staff when youarrive. This is for health and safety purposes and is an essential requirement forchecking into your accommodation.

The weekend of your arrival will be a time for you to get used to your newaccommodation and surroundings and to settle in ready to start your course. Youwill probably feel very tired and excited too so make sure you relax and catch upon your sleep!

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Welcome pack

The Welcome pack that you will receive upon arrival at the accommodation will includedetails of the LJMU Induction, and the Programme Induction/Enrolment at your faculty.Please ensure you attend both these sessions or you will miss out in valuableinformation.

The Welcome pack will also include lots of other useful information including a mapto help you get find you way around Liverpool.

LJMU induction/enrolmentThe LJMU induction event will take place on Tuesday 27th May 2014 for all SummerSemester students:During the event you will:• Be formally welcomed to LJMU• Receive useful information on LJMU, your accommodation and life in Liverpool• Meet academic and support staff

EnrolmentFollowing the LJMU Induction you will need to go to one of the 2 Student Zones andcomplete the LJMU enrolment process. You will need your passport for identificationpurposes.

Faculty inductionThe programme induction event will take place on Wednesday 28th May 2014. Youwill go to your individual faculty for this (a full schedule will be in your welcome pack).

During the induction you will:• Be formally welcomed to your programme• Receive a programme induction with information pack • Meet academic and support staff• Receive an induction to the Library and Computing facilities

Once your induction sessions have taken place you are ready to start your programme- we wish you lots of luck with your studies and hope you enjoy the LJMU experience.

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Accommodation

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) offers all students high quality studentaccommodation close to all main teaching and research facilities.

The accommodation is arranged into self-catering flats housing up to six students.You will have your own bedroom with en-suite bathroom facilities: toilet, sink andshower.

You will also have access to a communal living area with a television and fully fittedkitchen, with microwave and cooker plus plenty of storage and fridge space. Cutlery& crockery will be provided. You will need to buy pots and pans when you arrivebut these can be bought between flat mates and are quite cheap.

You will also be provided with a pillow, duvet and bed linen, which will be launderedfor you free of charge. Students are responsible for keeping their rooms andcommunal area clean and tidy at all times. Inspections will take place by theaccommodation providers.

We will endeavour to do our best to keep youwith the group of friends you have requestedto share your accommodation with ~ this isnot always possible due to the large numbersof students and allocation of rooms from theaccommodation providers.

Students will be housed either all male or allfemale – no mixed gender is permitted

Free internet access is also provided in allrooms.

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You will stay at LibertyAtlantic Point, part of theLiberty Living Group.Liberty Atlantic Point offersmodern and well-equippedaccommodation, situatedclose to the Byrom Streetcomplex of teachingbuildings and within easywalking distance of theAldham Robarts LearningResource Centre. LibertyAtlantic Point is within easyreach of all local amenities and transport links, including Liverpool Lime Streetrailway station. Liberty Atlantic Point’s close proximity to the town centre allowsresidents to participate fully in the city's diverse culture and exciting social scene. The address for Liberty Atlantic Point for any correspondence is:Liberty Atlantic Point, Naylor Street, Liverpool L3 6LS

Tel: 0151 500 0000 Email: [email protected]

You will receive a booklet from Liberty Atlantic Point upon arrival which will providelots of information regarding your halls of residence. Security at the site is excellent,with a single permanently staffed entry point and extensive CCTV coverage.Students must strictly adhere to the guest policy at Liberty Atlantic Point – guestsmust be signed into and out of the building at all times to ensure the safety of allfellow students. Please take this responsibility seriously.

Temporary accommodation can be found in Liverpool if you are arriving outside thespecified arrival dates:International Inn, 4 South Hunter Street, Liverpool, L1 9JGwww.internationalinn.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Hatters Liverpool, 56/60 Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5SHwww.booking.com/Hatters-Liverpool Tel: 0151 709 5570

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The Student Advice and Wellbeing team

LJMU have a dedicated Student Advice and Wellbeing team available to assiststudents with any problems they may experience whilst at University. The aim ofthe service is to provide appropriate, confidential and effective advice to studentsto aid in the resolution process.

If you need help with a disability or medical condition please [email protected]. As an international student you may be asked to pay for someor all of any support you may need.

For further information on the services available please refer to the followingwebsite:www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentadvice/120502.htm or call 0151 904 6056/6057

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IT essentials at LJMU

You will be unable to connect to the LJMU wireless network and LJMU managed networks in halls of residence if there are viruses, malware or spyware present on your laptop. To prevent this from happening to you the recommendations opposite should be carried out. This will solve most problems and any delays on using your laptop at LJMU.

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RECOMMENDATIONS • Immediately before travelling check for and install all essential updates to youroperating system and software by using Windows Update, or Software Update on aMacintosh laptop, and the update facilities for software on your laptop not producedby Microsoft or Apple • Install a reputable virus checker such as MacAfee or Norton on your laptop Download the latest updates for the virus checker and keep it up to date; most viruscheckers can be configured to update automatically each day Run a complete scan of the laptop immediately before travelling to detect and removeany viruses that may be present • Download and install Microsoft Security Essentials on to your laptop fromhttp://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/default.aspx. After installation Microsoft Security Essentials will update itself and then scan your

laptop. This scan will detect and remove viruses, malware and spyware Run a complete scan of the laptop immediately before travelling to detect and removeany viruses, spyware or malware that may be present • Please bring with you all recovery/operating system discs for your laptop. Shouldyour laptop develop a serious fault whilst in the UK these discs will assist you in gettingit working again.

DISCLAIMER Please note that Library & Student Support at LJMU are not liable forany damage caused to your PC by following the above instructions. Disclaimer Every effort is made to ensure that information given above is accurate and up-to-date.It should be noted, however, that this information is subject to change without noticeand the University can accept no liability for the accuracy of all the informationpresented at any given time. The University endeavors to ensure all information iscorrect. However, the University can accept no liability for damages resulting fromfollowing this information.

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Liverpool Student Union

LiverpoolSU is the students’ union for over 24,000 LJMU students. It is studentled and aims to support students through their student life.

A series of social activities will be scheduled throughout the summer semesterprogramme in Liverpool, including some opportunities to take part in volunteeringactivities . A full schedule of events will be advised via the summer semesterwebsite and email.

Sports Facilities

All LJMU students are eligible for free off peak membership to Lifestyle FitnessCentres across Liverpool. Facilities include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tenniscentre, athletics centre squash and badmington courts and weights rooms.

To find out more, go to www.ljmu.ac.uk/sport

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Life in the UK

British currency and banks

Britain’s decimal currency is based on the pound sterling (£), which is divided into100 pence (p). British banknotes are issued in the following denominations £50,£20, £10, £5. Their different colours and sizes help with identification.

Coins come in the following denominations £2, £1, 50p, 20p, 10p, 5p, 2p and 1p.

ClimateLike the rest of Britain, Liverpool's climate is largely unpredictable! However, it isquite sheltered and often milder than other parts of northern England. Generallyspeaking, the summer (June to August and sometimes early September) is warm,though rarely hot. Typical day time temperatures are 68F (20C) in the summer.

Clothing

You should consider carefully the clothing you will need. Make sure you have warmclothes which will protect you in all types of weather. “Layering” is one way ofdoing this. You will definitely require woollen sweaters and a waterproof coat. Anumbrella is also very useful. If you do not have suitable items such as these youcan buy them quite cheaply here:

Dress around the University and elsewhere is very informal. Students usually wearjeans, a jumper, jacket and training shoes.

Mobile phonesIf you want to purchase a SIM card for use in the UK, please ensure you buy themfrom a reputable source eg phone stores in Liverpool City Centre or localnewsagents. Keep your receipt in case you have any problems with it and need toreturn it at some point.

LJMU cannot take responsibility for students purchasing SIM cards fromdisreputable sources.

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Life in the UK

Buying foodA cosmopolitan city such as Liverpooloffers a wide variety of shops andrestaurants. There is also a number ofcheaper fruit and vegetable markets. AllLJMU accommodation is self-catering soyou will need to buy and prepare your ownfood.

You will find supermarkets near Universitybuildings and near to your accommodation.Normal shop hours are 9.00am-5.30pm,but most supermarkets are open until8.00pm most evenings. Stores in Liverpoolalso open on Sundays usually from11.00am to 4.30pm. A list of opening timesis usually displayed at the entrance to thestore. Halal and Kosher foods are availablein specific shops in the city, and there is aselection of Chinese supermarkets close tothe city centre. These shops will stock most of the things you are used to buyingat home

Driving in the UK

If you hold a valid driving licence or international driving permit from your homecountry, you will be able to drive in the UK for 12 months. After one year the licenceis no longer valid in the UK. We suggest you read the Highway Code beforeattempting to drive - see the website below for guidance:

www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Highwaycode/DG_070202

In addition please be aware that any speeding or parking fines that you may receivein the UK will be forwarded to you if you leave the UK before paying them.

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Life in the UK

PoliceIf you are lost, need advice or have any other difficulties, a Police Officer should beapproached for help. The UK police are a civilian force and generally do not carryfirearms. Check out the following website for practical advice on protecting yourselfagainst crime.

www.immobilise.com

Electricity and appliancesThe British electricity supply works on 240 volts.

Religion

Our Ecumenical chaplains are always available to meet up and chat. They can offerfriendship, conversation, pastoral care, spiritual support and guidance on mattersof faith, belief and spirituality. Please see the following link for contact details.www.ljmu.ac.uk/spirituality/

Cost of living You will want to plan your finances asfar ahead as possible. For the periodof your study to cover basic livingexpenses such as daily travel, food,and other necessary items, werecommend that you allow at least£1,000 for the duration of theprogramme.Please remember that the livingcosts are in addition to your coursefees and will depend on yourlifestyle.

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Life in the UK

Safety in the cityAs in any large city you need you be alert and aware of your surroundings- do nottake unnecessary risks, • Use your mobile phone discretely and safely• Don’t be flash with your cash – only take out what you need• Use cash points during the day or go out with a friend if you can• If you are returning home late at night, leave venues with friends and walk in a group• Do not use unlicensed taxis – ring a reputable firm or use a black hackney cab• Avoid short cuts; keep to well lit main roads

We want your stay in the UK to be safe one; some practical advice on personalsafety in the UK is available at the following website:www.britishcouncil.org/accreditation-safety-first.pdf

European tourFor students who wish to go on the European tour, there are a number of travelagents in Liverpool that offer this. STA Travel is a company that has beenrecommended by previous students and is in the city centre.STA Travel, 78 Bold Street, LiverpoolTel: 0871 702 9831

Please ensure you book any travel through a reputable company. LJMU cannotaccept any responsibility for travel booked through any third parties. Please remember - you should not miss classes to go on social trips!

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Life in the UK

homesickness and culture shockA new country, a new city, a new home, new people. Coming to university is a lifechanging experience and it’s not surprising that as well as the highs of experiencingnew things, many international students feel the lows too, missing friends, familyand the familiar surroundings of home. It’s important to remember that everyone– even the most outgoing students – will feel homesick from time to time. Don’tbe afraid to approach LJMU if you feel you are not coping. Everyone from yourPersonal Tutor to the University’s dedicated Student Advice and Wellbeing Team arehere to help.

We are confident that you will enjoy studying at LJMU and learning more aboutLiverpool and UK culture but that doesn’t mean that you won’t feel homesick attimes. Some international students also experience what is known as ‘cultureshock’, caused by moving from one culture to another. This is a very normal reactionas you get used to living in a new city, the British weather and different socialconventions and it usually passes very quickly as you settle into university life.

Find out more about culture shock in the following guide:www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_sheets/culture_shock.php

Settling into a new culture takes time, effort and support. The goodnews is that there are simple things you can do that will help youadjust more easily to life in the UK.

� Understand that feeling homesick is normal and can affect anyone at any time.

� Keep in touch with home, by telephone, letter, email, Skype. Many telephonecompanies offer greatly reduced charges for international calls.

� Have familiar things around you that have personal meaning, such asphotographs or ornaments.

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� Find a supplier of familiar food if you can and eat a healthy and balanced diet.Contact the International Student Advisors ([email protected])or the Students’ Union (www.liverpoolsu.com) for advice.

� Take regular exercise. As well as being good for your health it can be a way ofmeeting people.

� Make friends with international students, whether from your own culture orfrom others; they will understand what you’re feeling. If possible, make friendswith local students too so you can learn more about each other’s culture. Beprepared to take the first step and find activities which will give you a commoninterest with UK students. Contact the LiverpoolSU for more information onactivities for students: www.liverpoolsu.com

� Take advantage of all the services and support available to you at the University.This includes study skills workshops, funding advice, counselling, and muchmore. For details go towww.ljmu.ac.uk/studentadvice

� Contact your local church, mosque, synagogue or temple. LJMU’s Chaplaincycan put you in touch with different faith group. For more details go towww.ljmu.ac.uk/spirituality

� Above all find someone to talk to who will listen uncritically and withunderstanding, rather than isolating yourself.

Contact LJMU’s counselling team for support: [email protected] tel: 0151 904 6153

HOST Scheme

HOST UK promotes international friendship and understanding by arranging forinternational students studying in the UK to spend a day, weekend or Christmas ina British home. Organised in conjunction with LJMU, students are matched withsuitable hosts based on common interests or professions, taking into accountreligious or personal preferences on food, pets and arrangements for religiousobservances. For further information, please go to: www.hostuk.org.uk

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Frequently asked questions

Q Do we need to bring pillows and bed linen? A Duvets, pillows and bed linen are all provided by the accommodation providers soyou do not need to bring any of these items.

Q Do we need to bring electrical adaptors?AThe voltage in the UK is the same as in Malaysia 240v.

Q Do we need to bring a printer to the UK?AYou can buy printers here in the UK for as little as £30.00. Printers are available inthe LJMU Libraries but you need to pay for this service.

Q Do we need to bring crockery etc.?AYour room will be equipped with crockery and cutlery but you will need to buy pansupon arrival. There are plenty of cheap shops where you can buy them in Liverpool.We suggest you buy them here and share with your housemates.

Q How and with whom should we open a bank account in the UK?A You are allowed to open an account with any bank if you wish to do so.We will include in your welcome pack all the necessary information regarding openinga bank account in the UK. We will also supply you with a letter from LJMU at thefaculty induction on Tuesday 27th May which the bank will need as proof that you area LJMU student. In the past we have worked with Barclays bank and your seniorsfound them to be very good. You can only open a basic account however.Arrangements will be made with Barclays bank for you to open an account once youhave arrived. When you go to open a bank account you will need to take the letterfrom LJMU, your passport for ID and a bankers draft to pay into the account.

Q Does the accommodation have internet access?AYes internet access is available at your accommodation free of charge.

Q Do we have televisions in our rooms?AYou have a television in the communal area of your flat that you share with your flatmates.

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Frequently asked questions

Q LJMU has lots of sites – how will I find my way around?A Don’t worry about this, we will provide a map of all LJMU sites and Liverpool inyour welcome pack which you will receive when you arrive at your halls of residence.

Q Can I bring some of my favourite foods with me?A You are not allowed to bring certain foods into the UK – it is illegal to bring meat,fish, plants and honey into the UK. Please see the HM Custom and Excise websitefor prohibited goods. Liverpool does have lots of supermarkets where you canpurchase favourite foods cheaply details of which will be included in your welcomepack.www.gov.uk/bringing-food-animals-plants-into-uk/pets-and-other-animals

Q Is there a limit to the amount of money I bring into the UK?AYou need to be sensible regarding the amount of cash you bring into the UK for yourown safety. Do not bring lots of cash; instead bring travellers cheques, or bank drafts.You will need some sterling for your immediate expenses – about £100 should beenough. Check the following website for information regarding cash limits. www.gov.uk/bringing-cash-into-uk

Q Do we need to carry our passports with us around the city?A No, this is not necessary. You should keep your passport in a safe place in yourbedroom.

Q Is the tap water suitable for drinking?ACold water from the tap in the kitchen is suitable to drink, but we do not recommendthat you drink from the hot water tap. You should not drink water from the taps in thebathroom.

And finallyWe hope you have found this information guide useful. Further details about LJMU,the summer semester programme including a frequently asked question page canbe found on our website:

http://www.ljmu.ac.uk/partnership/SummerSemesterProgramme/index.htm

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Key University phone numbers

Switchboard: 0151 231 2121

LJMU Security/Emergencies: 0151 231 2222

International Student Advice: 0151 904 6050/6375

Counselling: 0151 904 6123

Liverpool Student Union: 0151 231 4900

Off Campus Support: 0151 231 3179

Library Helpline: 0151 231 3179

Computing Helpline: 0151 231 3179

Student Admin Centre: Avril Robarts 0151 231 5805

Student Admin Centre: Aldham Robarts 0151 231 3333

World of Work Careers Centre: 0151 231 8099

Liberty Atlantic Point Accommodation: 0151 500 0000