FAQ: Incoming Students

About Erasmus:

 

Q. What exactly does the Erasmus Soc do?

A. We organise all kind of events, ranging from drinks in town to weekend trips, and everything in between. These socials are open for everybody, and it is probably one of the best way to meet other incoming students and likeminded people. Next to this, we provide a welfare program to help you to improve your fluency in English, questions and possible problems.

 

Q. How many events do you organise every week?

A. That differs. During the first week of the term when all new students arrive, we try to organise several events. During term time, we aim to have at least one social a week.

 

Q. So, where can I find the Erasmus Soc office on campus?

A. You can't. As most other societies, we haven't got an office. If you have got any questions you can contact us by email or via the Facebook group. We are always more than willing to meet up in one of the bars for a chat and a brew!

 

Q. Sounds good, how do I join?

A. It's very easy to join our society. Just send us an email or come to one of our socials. The Erasmus Society is free to join, so don't let money issues stop you ;-)

 

About the University:

 

Q. I am thinking about studying abroad. Why should I consider York?

A. York is a great place to go because of several reasons. It is, for starters, one of the best universities in the UK, so that is definitely a positive. Next to this York is a campus based university, with most exchange students and freshers living on campus. This means York has got a vibrant student culture, and it is really easy to meet up with people from all over the world sharing your interests and hobbies. It is also important to know that York is one of the safest cities in the UK.

 

Q. I am not confident about my level of English, is there a way to improve on this?

A. The university runs the Centre for English Language Teaching (CELT) and incoming students can participate in there courses for free. We have put a link to the CELT website in our Links section. The Erasmus Society organises a Tandem program in which you can practise your English, and help a native students with the development of their language skills.

 

Practical information:

 

Q. How do I get into town?

A. York has got a beautiful city center, and is definitely worth a visit! Campus is not too far away from the center itself, and therefore quite a few students prefer to walk into town. If you know where you are going it is about a 25 minute walk. There are two regular bus services going to the city center, the number 4 (operated by First), which takes you to the railway station via the city center and the number 44 (operated by York Pullman), which drops you off just of the main shopping streets. If you prefer a taxi there are several companies active in York, some of them offering a students discount.

 

Q. I'm hungry, where do I get food?

A. There are two Costcutter shops on campus. One of them is located on Market Square, the other one is in Halifax. If you want to go for a big shop wihtin walking distance Aldi (in Fulford), Morrison's or Sainsbury's (Foss Island, really easy to spot since there is a huge dark chimey at the industrial estate) might be the thing you are looking for.

 

Q. I feel like dancing! Where are the places I can go out in York?

A. Students in York go out during the weekdays. There are several clubs and bars in York that organise student nights, usually with lower prices than during the weekends. Most students from the University of York would go to Tru and a Tuesday, Ziggy's on a Wednesday and Gallery on a Thursday, but there are plenty of cool places to go to as well. When going out in York, don't forget your studentcard and passport!

 

Q. I would like to have an English phone number. Where do I get one?

A. As you are here on an exchange, we would recommend you to get a pay-as-you-go simcard. The card itself is free, and you can ask for them in the telephone shops in the main shopping streets.

 

Q. Is it possible to work in England?

A. Sure thing. As all Erasmus students are from the EU or affiliated countries, it is relatively easy to work in the UK. The only thing you do need is a National Insurance number, which you can apply for via the Job Center.

Last updated 02 October 2010