Associate Student MagazineASPIRE

Student Support

Meet the Sta�

FAQ’s Answered

Student Stories

Why choose to become an

Associate Student?

August 2014

Welcome to our �rst ever newsletter for the Associate Student Project!This newsletter is designed for you, to give you an insight into the project, the staff, and Edinburgh Napier in general. We know doing something different can be a bit daunting, but we’re here to help make the transition as easy as possible for you.

First off: you should know you’ve made a good decision. As an Associate Student, you’ll have access to everything that Napier has to offer, from the library to the sports facilities to guest lectures.

More than that, you have taken a positive step for your career: your course will help you become more employable when you finish your studies, as well as helping you develop key skills that are essential to succeeding in a working environment. You can read more about this on page 2.You don’t have to take our word for it either - who better to tell you than someone who’s already been there? A former student, Derek, can tell you more. Turn to page 6 to read his honest account of settling in at Napier as an Associate Student, and to page 9 to see the work of someone who has recently graduated.

If you need support of any kind while you’re with us, we have a fantastic team of people just for that purpose. Find out more in our ‘Student Support’ section on page 4. There’s also a section on upcoming events and some FAQs. I hope it both inspires and reassures you that you’re in good hands.

Don’t forget - this newsletter is for you. If you have any suggestions or topics you’d like us to cover, let us know. We’re here to help and support you, so get in touch.

Best wishes, and good luck!

Debbie MehargDebbie MehargLecturer & College LiaisonSchool of ComputingEdinburgh Napier University

d.meharg@napier.ac.uk

1

Contents Welcome

1 Welcome2 Associate Students3 Staff Spotlight4 Student Support6 Settling In8 FAQ’s9 College Partners

ASPIRE

ASPIRE

Welcome to our �rst ever newsletter for the Associate Student Project!This newsletter is designed for you, to give you an insight into the project, the staff, and Edinburgh Napier in general. We know doing something different can be a bit daunting, but we’re here to help make the transition as easy as possible for you.

First off: you should know you’ve made a good decision. As an Associate Student, you’ll have access to everything that Napier has to offer, from the library to the sports facilities to guest lectures.

More than that, you have taken a positive step for your career: your course will help you become more employable when you finish your studies, as well as helping you develop key skills that are essential to succeeding in a working environment. You can read more about this on page 2.You don’t have to take our word for it either - who better to tell you than someone who’s already been there? A former student, Derek, can tell you more. Turn to page 6 to read his honest account of settling in at Napier as an Associate Student, and to page 9 to see the work of someone who has recently graduated.

If you need support of any kind while you’re with us, we have a fantastic team of people just for that purpose. Find out more in our ‘Student Support’ section on page 4. There’s also a section on upcoming events and some FAQs. I hope it both inspires and reassures you that you’re in good hands.

Don’t forget - this newsletter is for you. If you have any suggestions or topics you’d like us to cover, let us know. We’re here to help and support you, so get in touch.

Best wishes, and good luck!

Debbie MehargDebbie MehargLecturer & College LiaisonSchool of ComputingEdinburgh Napier University

d.meharg@napier.ac.uk

1

Contents Welcome

1 Welcome2 Associate Students3 Staff Spotlight4 Student Support6 Settling In8 FAQ’s9 College Partners

ASPIRE

ASPIRE

3

Student Support

2

Being an Associate Student: What does it mean for you?The Associate Student scheme has been created to help you make a smooth transition from college to university. As an Associate Student, you are beginning a new and exciting part of your four-year journey, from college, to a linked degree course.

The skills you acquire during this degree will equip you for the working world, and can help you make choices about the right career for you.

We’re thrilled that you’ve chosen to become an Associate Student at Napier, and we want to help you get the most out of it. Among other things, this means making sure you have access to our resources - essential for getting the degree you want. It’s important to us that you feel supported in the work you do, and that you feel able to make confident decisions when the time comes. And we want you to enjoy it too!

What will Napier sta� provide?Staff will provide:

Tutorial supportGuest LecturesUniversity visitsAcademic literacy workshops Other supporting activities

What facilities can I use?You will also have access to the same great facilities as all University students, including:

University Library services - for all your studying needsMoodle – our online learning environmentStudent support servicesSports facilities at ENU student ratesArranged visits and lectures at Edinburgh NapierFeatured lectures by Edinburgh Napier staff at college

We have formed great partnerships with colleges in Scotland, which allows us to help more students get access to a degree course that suits them.

Read on to �nd out about a tutor at West Lothian College, Margaret Clark, and to see why she thinks the Associate Student Project is so important.

At Edinburgh Napier University we have a strong support network in place to assist you with whatever help and advice you may need.

We hope that every student who comes to Edinburgh Napier has an enjoyable and enriching experience. Whether you need help with searching for funding, finding somewhere to live, careers advice or a confidential chat with a qualified counsellor, we have somebody to help you. Dedicated support is available to students with disabilities and learning difficulties through our highly experienced Disability & Inclusion team. Our Student Mentors are a valuable source of information and support about the study techniques and uni tips they’ve discovered along the way. And if you wish to increase your employability skills in a structured way, our Confident Futures programme is free and a great opportunity for all students. For those of you with English as your second language, we offer a range of English Language Support modules that will help build your confidence and improve your English in small groups, as well as pre-sessional English courses for those already accepted onto degree courses.. In addition to the cutting-edge resources provided by your faculty, we have excellent library and computing facilities on each of our three campuses to ensure you get the best from our extensive information resources.

We also have librarians that are always more than happy to help.

Margaret ClarkMargaret ClarkBA MBCS CITP CCNAEducation into Enterprise CoordinatorEdinburgh College Sighthill

Sta� Spotlight

3

Student Support

2

Being an Associate Student: What does it mean for you?The Associate Student scheme has been created to help you make a smooth transition from college to university. As an Associate Student, you are beginning a new and exciting part of your four-year journey, from college, to a linked degree course.

The skills you acquire during this degree will equip you for the working world, and can help you make choices about the right career for you.

We’re thrilled that you’ve chosen to become an Associate Student at Napier, and we want to help you get the most out of it. Among other things, this means making sure you have access to our resources - essential for getting the degree you want. It’s important to us that you feel supported in the work you do, and that you feel able to make confident decisions when the time comes. And we want you to enjoy it too!

What will Napier sta� provide?Staff will provide:

Tutorial supportGuest LecturesUniversity visitsAcademic literacy workshops Other supporting activities

What facilities can I use?You will also have access to the same great facilities as all University students, including:

University Library services - for all your studying needsMoodle – our online learning environmentStudent support servicesSports facilities at ENU student ratesArranged visits and lectures at Edinburgh NapierFeatured lectures by Edinburgh Napier staff at college

We have formed great partnerships with colleges in Scotland, which allows us to help more students get access to a degree course that suits them.

Read on to �nd out about a tutor at West Lothian College, Margaret Clark, and to see why she thinks the Associate Student Project is so important.

At Edinburgh Napier University we have a strong support network in place to assist you with whatever help and advice you may need.

We hope that every student who comes to Edinburgh Napier has an enjoyable and enriching experience. Whether you need help with searching for funding, finding somewhere to live, careers advice or a confidential chat with a qualified counsellor, we have somebody to help you. Dedicated support is available to students with disabilities and learning difficulties through our highly experienced Disability & Inclusion team. Our Student Mentors are a valuable source of information and support about the study techniques and uni tips they’ve discovered along the way. And if you wish to increase your employability skills in a structured way, our Confident Futures programme is free and a great opportunity for all students. For those of you with English as your second language, we offer a range of English Language Support modules that will help build your confidence and improve your English in small groups, as well as pre-sessional English courses for those already accepted onto degree courses.. In addition to the cutting-edge resources provided by your faculty, we have excellent library and computing facilities on each of our three campuses to ensure you get the best from our extensive information resources.

We also have librarians that are always more than happy to help.

Margaret ClarkMargaret ClarkBA MBCS CITP CCNAEducation into Enterprise CoordinatorEdinburgh College Sighthill

Sta� Spotlight

5

Student Support

How Napier University supports its Students.At Edinburgh Napier we have a strong support network in place to assist you with whatever help and advice you may need. Whether you need help with searching for funding, �nding somewhere to live, careers advice or a con�dential chat with a quali�ed counsellor, we have somebody to help you. Dedicated support is available to students with disabilities and learning di�culties through our highly experienced Disability & Inclusion team. Aileen MacLean, our Academic Support Adviser, answers some commonly-asked questions.

Do you o�er any careers advice?

We have a dedicated Careers service, here to help you to help you become as employable as possible. First, it’s probably a good idea to visit us for a 1-1 Careers support session or to get a checkup from the CV Doctor.

As a Napier student you also have access to plenty of online careers information including options with your subject, finding graduate jobs, help with CVs, applications and interviews and more. You could also take part in one of our many career, personal and professional development workshops, and register with

The Vacancies Site to access over 500 live graduate vacancies. And if you wish to increase your employability skills in a structured way, our Confident Futures programme is free and a great opportunity for all students. What’s more, you can use our expertise and advice for up to three years after you graduate, no need to panic about what happens when your course ends!

I’m a bit worried about the cost of studying. Can you help?

Of course! You’ll be surprised at just how much financial support is on hand for students. For instance, did you know that Scottish and EU students studying their first full-time degree will have their tuition fees paid for by SAAS? All you have to do is apply.

Our Student Funding team is here to help take the financial worry out of study. They can point you in the direction of a huge range of funding opportunities - both free and repayable. And remember - our Careers service are always on hand to help you find a part-time job to support yourself while you study.

What support do you o�er students with disabilities or additional needs?

At Napier we're committed to supporting all students on the basis of their merits, abilities and potential - regardless of any disability, health condition or learning difficulty. Come and speak to us for specialist help, advice and information on support available. We can talk through your options, which may include help with arranging specialist funding, eg. Disabled Students' Allowance; diagnostic and DSA Needs Assessments; exam adjustments such as extra time, scribes, readers, or use of a PC; assistance in arranging British Sign Language interpreters, study skills support advisers, proof readers and other non-medical personal helpers; assistive software training; library support; and loan equipment.

We can also liaise with others on your behalf if you wish, and refer you to more sources of support for your own needs. These can include academic support advisers, counsellors, funding advisers, Napier Students' Association, personal development tutors, school disability contacts and student mentors. There is also a wide range of non University-based support which we are happy to put you in touch with, for example Lead Scotland, a charity which provides information for disabled people applying to post-16 education.

What if it gets a bit much for me?

No one is a study machine. Being at university can bring up a range of issues and create stresses in your personal life. But you’re not on your own. Our Student Wellbeing team is on hand to help you get the services you need, including confidential counselling, to allow you to talk through any difficulties you’re having.

Is there any help available from people other than university staff?We know that many students find university challenging, and we have lots of support in place. However, If you want more informal support, it may help you to have a student mentor. A student mentor can offer friendly and advice to help you get to grips with life as a student. All of our mentors are trained students who have been studying with us for at least one year. They have already experienced university life, and are able to share their experiences with you.

They are people from a wide variety of age groups and backgrounds who understand the challenges you are facing when entering university from school, college or the workplace. Whether you need help settling in, writing assignments or getting ready for exams, your mentor can help you - after all, they’ve been there!

As an Associate Student, I’ve been told I can use the library and other resources. Where do I start?

Aileen MacLeanAcademic Support Adviser

School of ComputingMerchiston Campus

4

We have excellent library and computing facilities on each of our three campuses to make sure you get the best from our extensive information resources. We have librarians that are always more than happy to help you get to grips with the resources and find what you need. Just ask!

5

Student Support

How Napier University supports its Students.At Edinburgh Napier we have a strong support network in place to assist you with whatever help and advice you may need. Whether you need help with searching for funding, �nding somewhere to live, careers advice or a con�dential chat with a quali�ed counsellor, we have somebody to help you. Dedicated support is available to students with disabilities and learning di�culties through our highly experienced Disability & Inclusion team. Aileen MacLean, our Academic Support Adviser, answers some commonly-asked questions.

Do you o�er any careers advice?

We have a dedicated Careers service, here to help you to help you become as employable as possible. First, it’s probably a good idea to visit us for a 1-1 Careers support session or to get a checkup from the CV Doctor.

As a Napier student you also have access to plenty of online careers information including options with your subject, finding graduate jobs, help with CVs, applications and interviews and more. You could also take part in one of our many career, personal and professional development workshops, and register with

The Vacancies Site to access over 500 live graduate vacancies. And if you wish to increase your employability skills in a structured way, our Confident Futures programme is free and a great opportunity for all students. What’s more, you can use our expertise and advice for up to three years after you graduate, no need to panic about what happens when your course ends!

I’m a bit worried about the cost of studying. Can you help?

Of course! You’ll be surprised at just how much financial support is on hand for students. For instance, did you know that Scottish and EU students studying their first full-time degree will have their tuition fees paid for by SAAS? All you have to do is apply.

Our Student Funding team is here to help take the financial worry out of study. They can point you in the direction of a huge range of funding opportunities - both free and repayable. And remember - our Careers service are always on hand to help you find a part-time job to support yourself while you study.

What support do you o�er students with disabilities or additional needs?

At Napier we're committed to supporting all students on the basis of their merits, abilities and potential - regardless of any disability, health condition or learning difficulty. Come and speak to us for specialist help, advice and information on support available. We can talk through your options, which may include help with arranging specialist funding, eg. Disabled Students' Allowance; diagnostic and DSA Needs Assessments; exam adjustments such as extra time, scribes, readers, or use of a PC; assistance in arranging British Sign Language interpreters, study skills support advisers, proof readers and other non-medical personal helpers; assistive software training; library support; and loan equipment.

We can also liaise with others on your behalf if you wish, and refer you to more sources of support for your own needs. These can include academic support advisers, counsellors, funding advisers, Napier Students' Association, personal development tutors, school disability contacts and student mentors. There is also a wide range of non University-based support which we are happy to put you in touch with, for example Lead Scotland, a charity which provides information for disabled people applying to post-16 education.

What if it gets a bit much for me?

No one is a study machine. Being at university can bring up a range of issues and create stresses in your personal life. But you’re not on your own. Our Student Wellbeing team is on hand to help you get the services you need, including confidential counselling, to allow you to talk through any difficulties you’re having.

Is there any help available from people other than university staff?We know that many students find university challenging, and we have lots of support in place. However, If you want more informal support, it may help you to have a student mentor. A student mentor can offer friendly and advice to help you get to grips with life as a student. All of our mentors are trained students who have been studying with us for at least one year. They have already experienced university life, and are able to share their experiences with you.

They are people from a wide variety of age groups and backgrounds who understand the challenges you are facing when entering university from school, college or the workplace. Whether you need help settling in, writing assignments or getting ready for exams, your mentor can help you - after all, they’ve been there!

As an Associate Student, I’ve been told I can use the library and other resources. Where do I start?

Aileen MacLeanAcademic Support Adviser

School of ComputingMerchiston Campus

4

We have excellent library and computing facilities on each of our three campuses to make sure you get the best from our extensive information resources. We have librarians that are always more than happy to help you get to grips with the resources and find what you need. Just ask!

Settling In

6

Take all the help and support you are offered. Lecturers in the School of Computing have immense expertise and their knowledge is invaluable. If you’re not sure - ask!

Grasp opportunities. There are loads of activities to get involved in outwith your course.

Feed off other students. There is very much a positive ‘vibe’ around the campus and you can’t help but be inspired.

“Napier are not just here to get you great degree, Napier are here to get you a great job!”

Understand the assessment and grading structure as quickly as possible. In Year 3 virtually every mark you get will determine the level of degree you can achieve. Unlike college, it’s not just about passing - it’s about passing well!

Use the facilities on campus. The Jack Kilby Computing Centre is like my second home and I find it a very motivational place to work. It is open almost 24/7 and I often end up here at the weekend too. The library also has fantastic facilities for working and studying.

AND MOST IMPORTANT… Don’t be scared - enjoy the experience!

Student Story

Napier student Derek describes how he settled into Univeristy.How I got here:

Before returning to full-time education I enjoyed a few different career paths, including working as an electrical engineer for 10 years. In my spare time I began building simple websites as a hobby and realised I would need to get recognised qualifications if I were to pursue it as a career. My three years at college were interesting and a great starting point for me in my goal of studying at degree level.

How I found it:

The transition from college to university (year 3) is quite a significant one; at first it can seem quite daunting and a bit of a whirlwind. One thing that became very apparent was the pace of the course - within a matter of weeks I was submitting my first piece of coursework for grading.

I am now heading towards the end of my second trimester and the pace has been consistent throughout the entire year.

What it’s like:

What is very clear at Napier is that hard work is rewarded. The staff within the School of Computing support you in every aspect of university life and from day one they encourage you to be the best you can be, to get the best degree you can and to ultimately get the best job you can.

Following my three years at college and first year at Napier University I can pass on the following advice from my experience:

Before you start:

Prepare well. Spend time reviewing the courses at Napier and the modules within them. Visit our site for more details.Research, research, research. Speak to Napier staff, attend open days and ask questions.Have a think of where you want to be at the end of your degree. From day one you will be encouraged to focus on your future career.

Once you’re here:

Derek HendryNapier University

School of Computing Web Design & Development

BSc (Hons)Year 4.

7

Settling In

6

Take all the help and support you are offered. Lecturers in the School of Computing have immense expertise and their knowledge is invaluable. If you’re not sure - ask!

Grasp opportunities. There are loads of activities to get involved in outwith your course.

Feed off other students. There is very much a positive ‘vibe’ around the campus and you can’t help but be inspired.

“Napier are not just here to get you great degree, Napier are here to get you a great job!”

Understand the assessment and grading structure as quickly as possible. In Year 3 virtually every mark you get will determine the level of degree you can achieve. Unlike college, it’s not just about passing - it’s about passing well!

Use the facilities on campus. The Jack Kilby Computing Centre is like my second home and I find it a very motivational place to work. It is open almost 24/7 and I often end up here at the weekend too. The library also has fantastic facilities for working and studying.

AND MOST IMPORTANT… Don’t be scared - enjoy the experience!

Student Story

Napier student Derek describes how he settled into Univeristy.How I got here:

Before returning to full-time education I enjoyed a few different career paths, including working as an electrical engineer for 10 years. In my spare time I began building simple websites as a hobby and realised I would need to get recognised qualifications if I were to pursue it as a career. My three years at college were interesting and a great starting point for me in my goal of studying at degree level.

How I found it:

The transition from college to university (year 3) is quite a significant one; at first it can seem quite daunting and a bit of a whirlwind. One thing that became very apparent was the pace of the course - within a matter of weeks I was submitting my first piece of coursework for grading.

I am now heading towards the end of my second trimester and the pace has been consistent throughout the entire year.

What it’s like:

What is very clear at Napier is that hard work is rewarded. The staff within the School of Computing support you in every aspect of university life and from day one they encourage you to be the best you can be, to get the best degree you can and to ultimately get the best job you can.

Following my three years at college and first year at Napier University I can pass on the following advice from my experience:

Before you start:

Prepare well. Spend time reviewing the courses at Napier and the modules within them. Visit our site for more details.Research, research, research. Speak to Napier staff, attend open days and ask questions.Have a think of where you want to be at the end of your degree. From day one you will be encouraged to focus on your future career.

Once you’re here:

Derek HendryNapier University

School of Computing Web Design & Development

BSc (Hons)Year 4.

7

College Partners

8

Frequently Asked Questions.

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

FAQ’s Answered

Napier University College Partners.

Before you start:

Question

9

New College Lanarkshire

New College Lanarkshire combines what were Motherwell College and Cumbernauld College. The size and scale of the College allows it to operate more effectively with a firm focus on the social and economic well-being of Lanarkshire.

Edinburgh College

Edinburgh College is the largest college in Scotland and one of the largest in the UK. We have the strongest single student body in Edinburgh and our key commitment is to put students at the centre.

West Lothian College

West Lothian College is an award winning provider of further education based in Livingston, West Lothian since 2001. West Lothian College’s vision is “To be a high performing and creative College within a national reputation for excellence in demand led learning and skills development” and in fulfilling that vision provides and invaluable resource to the people of West Lothian and beyond.

Question

Question

Question

College Partners

8

Frequently Asked Questions.

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur,

FAQ’s Answered

Napier University College Partners.

Before you start:

Question

9

New College Lanarkshire

New College Lanarkshire combines what were Motherwell College and Cumbernauld College. The size and scale of the College allows it to operate more effectively with a firm focus on the social and economic well-being of Lanarkshire.

Edinburgh College

Edinburgh College is the largest college in Scotland and one of the largest in the UK. We have the strongest single student body in Edinburgh and our key commitment is to put students at the centre.

West Lothian College

West Lothian College is an award winning provider of further education based in Livingston, West Lothian since 2001. West Lothian College’s vision is “To be a high performing and creative College within a national reputation for excellence in demand led learning and skills development” and in fulfilling that vision provides and invaluable resource to the people of West Lothian and beyond.

Question

Question

Question

2014

Questions:

Debbie MehargLecturer & College LiaisonSchool of ComputingEdinburgh Napier UniversityMerchiston CampusEdinburghEH10 5DTT 0131 455 2927E d.meharg@napier.ac.uk

Upcoming Events

Associate Student Open Day (1st Year)

Napier University Merchiston Campus

25th September 2014

Napier Open Day Napier University Merchiston Campus

4th October2014

Study Skills Sessions *Research Skills

Your College Campus w/c 6th October 2014

Study Skills Sessions *ReferencingSkills

Your College Campus w/c 20th October 2014

Study Skills Sessions *Report Writing Skills

Your College Campus w/c 27th October 2014

Drop-in Lectures1st & 2nd Year

Napier University Merchiston Campus

3rd November 2014

Half-day University visit Your College Campus w/c 24th November 2014

What?

Manitory Optional

Where? When?