Freshers: Gearing up for the first weeks
Your Head STYCs are your main points of contact during Fresher's Week. We caught up with one of them, third-year Sammi Giles, who has earnt herself the nickname 'Auntie Sammi' for her kind and caring attitude.
Hey Sammi, tell us a bit about yourself!
I’m a third-year Education student from Brentwood in Essex (yes I love TOWIE hahahaha!). My passions are people, food and cheesecake. I’m a bubbly kind of girl and am definitely a ‘people person’. I can’t wait to meet all the new lovelygirls and guys!
How are you looking forward to Fresher’s Week?
I can’t wait! It’s a fabby time of year, and I love the buzz of all the new people moving in. This will be my third Fresher’s Week, but I still remember mine like it was yesterday!
So you are a Head STYC – what does that mean?
Good question! There are 14 of us – which means two or three per accommodation block. We are second or third year students and we’re basically there to look after you all through Freshers Week. Each flat has around 3-4 STYCs who will show you around during the evening events, and as Head STYCs it’s our job to make sure they are in the right place at the right time!
What can my Head STYC help with?
Honestly? Anything and everything! We can give you tips to cure a hangover, we can help you work the laundry, and we can suggest good spots for lunch in town! We can also put you in touch with people if you want to join sports teams, clubs or societies. Most importantly, we are a listening ear when you’re stressed or down for whatever reason! Fresher’s Week isn’t always an easy breeze, so your Head STYCs are there to talk to if you have any worries or struggles. We can also put you in touch with the college welfare officers, or other helpful people across the uni! My favourite words to hear are always ‘Hey Auntie Sammi, can you help me with...’!
What tips would you give to our Fresher’s before they arrive?
Stay calm, stay happy. It’s completely normal to be apprehensive – and to be honest you will never know what it is like until you get here! But as I always say, ain’t no point crying over spilt milk before you’ve spilt it! Spend some quality time with friends and family, try not to leave packing to the last minute, and try not to be too nervous. It’s going to be great! Auntie Sammi promises!
How about once they arrive, what advice would you give to Freshers during the first few days?
Talk to everyone! I mean it, don’t be afraid to talk to anyone and everyone you meet! During my first few days, I think my flatmates thought I was quite quiet and reserved. But I really love food, so I cooked my flat a big greasy meal and that got the conversation going! Two years later they can’t shut me up! (Belly laughs).
What is your top tip for our new students?
I think the most important thing to remember is the opportunity that university brings. It’s a blank canvas and a chance to grow and develop as a person. No matter who you are or what you are in to, there is a place for you at York. Sometimes you have to go looking for it, and that’s what people like your Head STYCs are there for. As the Jackson 5 once said, reach out, I’ll be there!
Describe Fresher’s Week in three words.
New. Busy. Exhilarating.
Thanks Auntie Sammi!
No hun thank you xxxxx!! xx
