Welcome to Semester 2.

There's heaps going on during the first week of semester and it's all about settling in, catching up with your mates and having fun before delving in to the serious side of being a student. 

Winterlude kicked off with a bang over the weekend and last night we welcomed new students with a few laughs, pizza and a relaxed student-led panel discussion. Thanks to everyone that made it along and remember that help is always out there if you need it - just ask.

Success Seminars

All students are welcome to these up and coming seminars:

• Understanding the academic world (Wednesday 11 July)
• How to make the most of your volunteer experience when job hunting (Thursday 12 July)
• Have you chosen the right degree? (Monday 16 July)

UC in 2, 5 or 10 years.

Student survey about UC Futures

Want to have your say regarding what UC looks like in 2, 5, 10 years? Find out more here and find the time to have your say.

New lecture recording system

UC is introducing a new lecture capture system, Echo 360, across 20 teaching venues this week. The system offers a new online interface accessed via Learn, allowing you to easily review and revisit material presented in class. Check out more about Echo 360 and how to make the most of it.

Erskine access disruption

The Gentlemen’s Club Fashion Show will be held in Erskine on the evening of Saturday 14 July as part of the Winterlude Festival.

Sound checks begin at 3pm and all computer workrooms in Erskine will be cleared and closed at this time. Alternative computing facilities can be accessed at Kirkwood Village in KB03. Normal access to Erskine’s facilities will be restored at 9pm the same evening.

The UCSA regrets any inconvenience and thanks you for your cooperation.

Central Library closures

Remember, parts of the Central Library will be closed over the next few months for remediation and refurbishment, with a complete closure over the summer from mid-November until mid-February. Level 8 is closed from Monday 16 July, with Level 10 re-opening at 10am the same day.

Semester 2 timetable

Keep a close eye on your timetable over the first couple of weeks of the term, as some details, particularly venues, may be subject to change.

Shape UC's online future

We're developing future strategies for UC's online presence, and we'd like your student input. Take a look at the strategy documents (Online Strategy and User Experience Guide), then give us your thoughts by attending our online forum next Wednesday (18 July) at 12. Email Jessica MacDonald to register your interest, and we'll send you details of how to attend.

What should you do if you are struggling with your study?

Ask for help.
If you're struggling with your study there is help available with time management, study skills, exam skills, academic writing skills, English language difficulties and more.

Read this information about Academic Progress Reviews for information about what happens if you fail and how to get help.

Study Antarctica in Antarctica

The Postgraduate Certificate in Antarctic Studies is a varied experience, offering a taste of everything. A 14 week multi-disciplinary study of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. Closing date 1 August 2012.  Apply now...

Fulbright Graduate Awards

Fulbright-EQC Graduate Award in Natural Disaster Research
This award is for a promising New Zealand graduate student to undertake postgraduate study or research at a US institution in the field of natural disaster research. One award valued at up to US$25,000 (plus travel expenses and insurance) is offered each year.

Other awards available:

• Fulbright Science and Innovation Graduate Awards
• Fulbright-Ngā Pae o Te Māramatanga Graduate Award
• Fulbright New Zealand General Graduate Awards

Applications close at 5pm, Wednesday 1 August 2012.

For further information visit www.fulbright.org.nz.

Going flatting next year?

Come along to the flatting seminar on Tuesday 17 July, 4pm in the Ilam Apartments Common Room, Homestead Lane.

Topics covered:

• Finding the right flat;
• Signing leases;
• Tenant and landlord rights and obligations;
• Dispute resolution; and
• Tips on how to get on with your flatmates.

Flatting Information Seminar website...

Improve your academic skills and improve your grades!

Now is the time to check out the Learning Skills website to see what’s on offer. Sessions are available for undergraduates, thesis writers and adult students.

If you need expert coaching in essay writing, report writing, thesis writing, giving a talk or writing a lit review, there’s an LSC course or workshop for you.

Some courses begin this week, so don’t delay.

Don’t forget you can bring written work to an individual consultation for one-to-one help. All LSC services are free.

Ladyhawke, Perfect Storm & Shapeshifter for $99

For just $99 UC students can get tickets to the following three events:

• Thursday 12 July - Ladyhawke at The Foundry
• Friday 13 July - The Perfect Storm at The Foundry
• Saturday 14 July - Shapeshifter with AHoriBuzz and Sunshine Sound System at The Bedford

These tickets are for UC students only. You will be required to show a valid Canterbury Card upon entry into each of the three events. Purchase tickets from Dashtickets...

Restriction: R18

Brought to you by the UCSA