Earlier today, Kate O'Riordan, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Education and Students, wrote to all taught students. You can read her full email below:
Hello,
This week is Neurodiversity Celebration Week, so I wanted to start by recognising the unique strengths and perspectives of our neurodiverse community here at Sussex. As a university, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
We also have some fantastic research into neurodiversity here at the University. Your Student Blog recently featured Clare, a PhD researcher exploring how our physical environment can cause visual discomfort in autistic people. Clare began her academic career with a foundation year here at Sussex, and I hope her journey might be an inspiration to those of you who are considering continuing your studies with us.
Neurodivergence is not the same as disability but support can be relevant. If you consider yourself to be neurodiverse and you have not done so already, you may want to register with disability support or think about joining Access Sussex.
Today is also International Happiness Day, a day that recognises Happiness is a fundamental human goal. This year’s theme is “caring and sharing,” something that I know our community here at Sussex excels at. I encourage each of you take this opportunity to spread a little joy and positivity, whether through a small act of kindness, spending time with friends, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the beauty around you.
Finally, you may be aware that there was a fire yesterday in one of our student accommodations. I am happy to say that no one was injured and the damage was contained by the fire door. I encourage everyone to read this article on the Student Hub, which includes some useful advice for helping keep everyone safe from future incidents.
Please read on for your regular update, including:
- Module Evaluations: your voice makes a difference
- Have you lived at home while studying at Sussex? We want to hear from you!
- What does wellbeing mean to Sussex students?
- Final year undergraduates – two weeks to log your Spirit of Sussex Award points!
- Careers in Media, Arts and Communications – Make it Happen 2025
- Black Brilliance BizFest 2025
- Could you be a Residential Life Student Connector?
- Sussex snapshot
Module Evaluations: your voice makes a difference
On Monday 24 March, if you are an undergraduate student in Year 1, Year 2 or Foundation Year, you will be asked to complete questionnaires (MEQs) on your experience of your modules this semester. These are really important for us to understand what is working well in your studies at Sussex and what changes might be needed. But we need a good level of response, so please do take just a few minutes to complete these.
We have made it easier to complete your MEQs this semester - you will get an e-mail with a link to the questionnaire for each module and there will also be a link on your modules’ Canvas site. You just need to fill in the survey, there is no longer a need to identify your course/module. The MEQs will be open until 11 April.
MEQs for final-year undergraduate and postgraduate students will open later in April.
Have you lived at home while studying at Sussex? We want to hear from you!
We want to share stories of what it is like to live at home while studying (the good and the bad!) to help students who are thinking of studying at Sussex decide if staying at home is the right option for them. You could tell your story by writing a blog, creating a Tik Tok video, or any other way you think would work!
You will be paid for your time through the Sussex student ambassador scheme.
What does wellbeing mean to Sussex students?
Last week, the wellbeing team sent wellbeing connectors Lucas and Matilda out on campus to ask what wellbeing means to you, check out their video on the @universityofsussexwellbeing Instagram and discover more ways to support your wellbeing this month on the Student Hub.
Final year undergraduates – two weeks to log your Spirit of Sussex Award points!
Undergraduate finalists have just 2 weeks to log their Spirit of Sussex Award (SoSA) points. If you have not submitted yet, don’t worry – there is still time!
Throughout your Sussex journey you have probably taken part in lots of points-worthy extra-curricular activities, both on and off campus. This includes things like having a part-time job, joining clubs and societies, attending training and workshops, or developing hobbies and interests.
All you need to do now is log your activities in the SoSA platform before 1 April 2025.
If you need help logging or want to know more, we have 4 friendly SoSA Student Connectors ready to answer your questions! Book an online 1-1 support session today.
Careers in Media, Arts and Communications – Make it Happen 2025
The final Make it Happen event of 2025 takes place this Wednesday 26 March. If you are interested in a career in media, arts or communications, do come along and join our panel of brilliant alumni to find out more about working in these industries. Book your place.
Black Brilliance BizFest 2025
Organised by students, the Black Brilliance BizFest is open to all students at Sussex who are interested in business or just want to get inspired by the careers of some amazing alumni and business experts. Come along on 26 March for an evening of insightful talks, networking, developing your personal brand and great food.
Could you be a Residential Life Student Connector?
The Residential Life team seeks to enhance the experience of students living in University-managed accommodation by providing support to students and developing a sense of community in the residences.
As a Residential Life Connector, you would be responsible for fostering a sense of community, promoting student wellbeing, and serving as the primary point of contact for residents in University managed housing. This will be achieved through delivering a programme of events, initiatives and social media campaigns, as well as through targeted conflict resolution and wellbeing support.
With best wishes,
Kate
Professor Kate O’Riordan, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education and Students)