Student Connections

Welcome

Welcome video to Student Connections

Student Connections

Building connections as a student is a crucial aspect of university life offering you opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. From networking events to collaborative projects these experiences help you expand your horizons, meet like-minded people and gain valuable skills for your future career.

Whether through academic groups, social clubs or career fairs, creating meaningful connections fosters a sense of community and belonging, in turn making your university experience more enriching and fulfilling.

Embracing these opportunities can lead to lasting friendships, mentorships, and even career pathways. Browse through the activities included here to find the perfect opportunities to connect and grow.

At Ulster University we are dedicated to ensuring every student feels supported throughout their academic journey. The Student Success Centre works closely with diverse student groups to meet their unique needs and challenges.

Each of the tabs below gives further details on how you can connect across the University to services designed to support you in your student experience.

Connection and Social Cafes
We are committed to fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging by helping you connect with your fellow students. In collaboration with Student Wellbeing we host regular connection and social cafes throughout the year on each of our three campuses.
These are relaxed, welcoming spaces that offer you the chance to:
- Socialise with your peers on campus in a friendly environment.
- Speak with support staff about any challenges you may be facing with your studies or life at Ulster University.
Join us for games, crafts, complimentary drinks and some social chit-chat.
No booking is required! Just drop in, have fun, be social and connect!
Visit our Events page to discover when the next cafes are happening on your home campus. We look forward to seeing you there!
Ulster University Student Union
Ulster University boasts a vibrant Students' Union with countless opportunities to get involved. Whether you are interested in volunteering, connecting with different sports, or trying something new with our societies, there's something for everyone. Watch the UU Welcome Video on Youtube. With over 90 societies, you will find activities and groups that match your interests and passions. Joining a society helps you make friends and enhances your CV, giving you valuable skills and experiences.
The UU Students Union Advice Bureau team provides independent and confidential advice, support, and representation in relation to all university matters. Students can get in touch by completing the Contact Advisor form which takes 2 minutes to complete and refers you to the service.
Why not check out what's on offer and get connected today?
You can also build your own student community UUSU can assist in forming societies and even provide grants for events. To start a society you will need a:
Chairperson Secretary Treasurer and consider appointing a Wellbeing Officer.
- Learn more about societies and how to get involved: UUSU Societies.
- Contact UUSU for further support at info@uusu.org.
At Ulster we are committed to ensuring you have the resources, support, and community you need to succeed. Let us help you make the most of your time with us!
Mature Students
The Student Success Centre offers tailored services for mature learners balancing education with other responsibilities:
- Mature Learners Transition Day: An opportunity for new students to attend campus early for a smaller transition day tailored to the needs of mature learners.
- Study Support: Access online resources, workshops, and the Study Skills Toolkit.
- Personalised Advice: Email UUSuccess@ulster.ac.uk for academic support or contact your Director of Studies or adviser.
- Community Building: Attend events and Social Cafés for mature learners. If you have an event idea email us at UUSuccess@ulster.ac.uk.
Care Experienced Students

Ulster University provides advice and support for Care Experience students. If you are leaving care or have previously spent time in care for three months or more and you are thinking of applying to the University, there are a range of services that we can offer you.
We may be able to provide financial support, year-round accommodation, and advice and guidance from our dedicated Student Support Outreach Adviser, Paul Cassidy. Email Paul directly at p.cassidy@ulster.ac.uk
Supporting Disabled Students
Disabled students, including those with physical sensory mental health or neurodivergent conditions, are supported by Student Wellbeing (confidential and free). Learn more at Student Wellbeing.
Support includes:
- Setting up Reasonable Adjustments Recommendations (RARs) for exams, library access, and physical adaptations.
- Guidance on medical evidence for support or assessments (e.g., dyslexia).
- Assistance with Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) applications for funded support.
- Access to assistive technology and training through DSA.
Student Success Centre:
- Online resources workshops and the Study Skills Toolkit to enhance study skills.
- For academic concerns email UUSuccess@ulster.ac.uk or speak with your Director of Studies academic adviser or Accessibility adviser.
Events for Disabled Students:
Student Success team collaborates with Student Wellbeing on tailored events. Visit our Events page or suggest ideas by emailing UUSuccess@ulster.ac.uk.
We are committed to providing inclusive support to help you succeed at Ulster!
Supporting International Students
The Student Success Centre supports International students adjusting to life abroad.
Key Resources:
- Guidance: Which helps you settle into university life abroad International Student Guide
- English Support: Free courses, consultations, and workshops from the English for Academic Studies Centre (EASC).
- Welfare Support: International Student Advisory Service (ISAS) offers immigration advice and support for life in Northern Ireland.
We are here to help you thrive at Ulster!
Supporting returning Leave of Absence students
The Student Success Centre supports students returning from a Leave of Absence with tailored sessions, including:
- Welcome back and feedback sessions.
- Personalised support to meet your needs.
- Academic skills refresh and skills audit.
- One-to-one guidance for a smooth transition.
Email UUSuccess@ulster.ac.uk for more details or to start a conversation.
Employability and Graduate Futures

Access expert advice, sector leading resources and wide-ranging work experience, placement and graduate opportunities with Employability & Graduate Futures.