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This email is being sent to all returning taught undergraduate and postgraduate students

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Hello,

This week, I want to highlight how your input helps shape our university, from study spaces and course improvements to wellbeing support. Whether through student reps, surveys, or conversations, your feedback plays a crucial role in improving the student experience. Every term I meet with your reps to hear about your experience so please be in contact with them. Your voice helps shape Sussex.

There are many opportunities to help you enjoy your time at Sussex, develop valuable new skills, and connect and make friends with other students. So, if you are taking part in the many volunteering sessions available to all students such as the Forest Garden, exploring postgraduate study opportunities, or joining an academic workshop, your involvement and your student voice continue to make Sussex such a great place to be a student.

Please read on for this week’s updates on:

Get paid to make content 

Love making content? Want to get paid to create videos and stories for the University’s social channels? We are looking for current students to join our Digital Media Creator team. You will cover events, pitch ideas, and share student life through video. Past events have included interviewing MPs, Brighton Pride, Sussex Awards and more.

  • Paid, flexible role

  • Support provided throughout

  • Great for building creative skills and experience

  • Former DMCs have gone on to work in content creation and social media

Find out how to apply on the Digital Media Creator recruitment page.

You asked, we delivered – student feedback in action

Your feedback throughout your time here, completing surveys, talking to your student reps and consultations with staff helps Sussex make meaningful changes that improve your experience. From introducing more quiet study spaces and extending library hours, to improving timetabling and wellbeing services, we are acting on what you tell us matters most.

Read about the latest improvements, all shaped by students.

Can we explain what feedback is e.g surveys, reps, consultation etc.

Caroline Lucas appointed as new Professor of Practice at the University of Sussex

Caroline Lucas, former leader of the Green Party and Member of Parliament for Brighton Pavilion, has been appointed by the University of Sussex as its first Professor of Practice in Environmental Sustainability. The post is based in the new Sussex School for Progressive Futures (SSPF) and will support the University with the implementation of the new strategy Sussex 2035: Creating Progressive Futures, flourishing, sustainability and progress for the whole world.

Caroline will contribute to teaching, research, and public engagement activities, sharing insights from her career in environmental politics and social justice. Her appointment strengthens Sussex’s commitment to sustainability, activism, and civic engagement.

Read more about her appointment.

Forest Food Garden volunteering session

13 November 2025 | 13:30–15:30 | University of Sussex Campus – Forest Food Garden

Get hands-on experience in sustainable food growing by joining the Forest Food Garden volunteering session. It is a great way to connect with nature, meet other students, and learn about permaculture and food sustainability. Learn about sustainable food growing and enjoy the benefits of spending time outdoors. These sessions are a great way to connect with nature, meet like-minded people, and make a positive impact on campus.

Find full details on the Forest Food Garden volunteering session page.

Support for international students

If you are an international student, Sussex has a wide range of guidance and support to help you thrive and feel at home.

You can find advice about visas and immigration, living in the UK, managing your money, academic support, health and welfare, and working in the UK.

If you need advice or support, you can contact:

  • The International Advice team for confidential visa and immigration guidance.

  • The Student Centre for wellbeing or general concerns.

  • Residential Life for accommodation or community issues.

Find out more details on the Support for international students page.

Academic skills workshops: reflective writing

Developing your reflective writing skills can help you understand your learning process, improve your academic work, and prepare for professional contexts.

You can attend workshops run by experienced Academic Skills Consultants:

Find more academic support opportunities on the Skills Hub.

Applications to live on campus next year are now open

Applications to live on campus for the next academic year are now open. This option offers a simple, budget-friendly way to live in Brighton, with no deposit required and all bills, Wi-Fi, and insurance included.

Living on campus means you are close to lectures, social spaces, and support services, without the stress of house-hunting or hidden costs. You can also apply to live with friends.

Apply today via the University accommodation application page.

Masters virtual open day – explore postgraduate study

If you are considering postgraduate study, join our Masters Virtual Open Day to discover your options and learn what it is like to study a Masters at Sussex. You will hear from current students and staff about funding, courses, and the application process.

Sussex offers several fee reductions for current undergraduates continuing to Masters study, including the Sussex Alumni Scholarship (£3,000 tuition fee waiver) and a 20 per cent discount for online Masters.

Find out more and register on the Masters virtual open day page. You can also read about how to apply for a Masters.

Spotlight on kindness research: Drop Dead Generous

The Sussex Centre for Research on Kindness is collaborating with Drop Dead Generous, an initiative that gives $500 to 1,000 individuals to carry out acts of kindness, with no strings attached. Participants share their experiences through photos and voice notes, which feature in the Drop Dead Generous podcast. You can log Spirit of Sussex Award points for submitting a successful initiative.

Find out more about the initiative on the Drop Dead Generous website.

With best wishes,

Kate

Professor Kate O'Riordan

Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students)

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Students interviewing Caroline Lucas, the new Professor of Practice at the University of Sussex.

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