What Do Students Do for Hull?

 

The Avenues have become a hub for University of Hull students, with both Newland and Princes Avenue being hotspots for nightlife and student living.

This week, over 16,000 students arrive and return to the leafy campus on Cottingham Road. If you’re a local, you might notice the increase in young people getting stocked up on essentials at Tesco, meeting with their friends in coffee shops and heading to the library.

Hull is a great place to study, but what do students actually do for the city? And if you’re a student, how can you get more involved with your local community?

We spoke to Jennie Watts (above right), the Welfare and Community Officer at Hull University Union.

Hi, Jennie. Can you tell us a little about your role?

I represent all students on any and all welfare issues. This ranges from mental health to housing. I also help and support the part-time student officers for LGBT+, Women, BAME, LINKS (St. John’s Ambulance) and Disability – they run student-led campaigns and projects throughout the year.

Another part of my role is running regular community-focused campaigns, such as those on rubbish bins and safety.

What does the Welfare Zone do to help out the local community?

We run regular litter picks, waste management campaigns and street cleaning days, as well as encouraging our students to get involved in community projects throughout the year through volunteering.

The LINKS team also offers support for community events throughout the year, providing first aid assistance. Meanwhile,HUU’s Raising and Giving society works hard to fundraise for local charities.

How can students get involved with helping out their local community?

They can become a member of any of these volunteer groups to donate their time and energy in helping fellow students and the city as a whole.

If you’re a student and want to get more involved, don’t hesitate to contact me at huu-welfare@hull.ac.uk.

Why is it important for students and the local community to work together?

Hull is such a fantastic city. I’ve lived here for four years now and the people are so friendly and welcoming. I also recognise that the students have so much to offer, from raising awareness of local issues and fundraising for charities and causes, to adding to the diversity, atmosphere, and culture of the city.

So the campus is nice and busy now?

Yes, it’s that time of year again. WelcomeFest 2017 began on Saturday 16 September and lasts for a whopping three weeks. The fantastic event is jam-packed full of live music, freshers’ fairs, club nights and new opportunities.

To find out more, visit the WelcomeFest website. And to discover how the Student Officer team makes a difference in Hull, check out the Hull University Union website.