Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students), Professor Kate O'Riordan, wrote to all new taught students earlier today. Below you can read her full message:

Hello, 

Congratulations and a very warm welcome to the University of Sussex. You made it and we are really pleased you are here!  
This is your Student Update, delivered to your inbox every Thursday during term time, to help you stay connected with everything happening across campus

Campus is full of Welcome Week energy, from social events and campus tours, to student-led activities and free food, there is plenty to explore. Do not miss the Welcome Celebrations on Friday where you will hear what makes Sussex unique, and how you can shape your university experience. 

If you have not already done so, please do download the MySussex mobile app, it is your go-to resource for timetables, campus updates, and everything you need to settle in.

You are part of a vibrant, supportive community. I and all of our staff are very glad you are here. 

Please read on for this week’s news, including:  

• Book your place at the Vice-Chancellor’s Welcome Celebration event 
• Guidance on recording your attendance 
• Food freebies all week
• Save on bus fares and new bus routes   
• Make new friends at the Students’ Union welcome events  
• A warm welcome for our international students  
• Sussex Sport welcome week events 
• Get moving at our new wellbeing space, Active Arches  
• Check out the new Travel Hub for all your sustainable transport needs  
• Book yourself in for some canine cuddles  

Book your place at Vice-Chancellor's Welcome Celebration event

On Friday 26 September 2025, the Welcome Celebration events will be held at the Jubilee Lecture Theatre and after the talks, you will have the chance to: 

• meet and connect with Sussex staff and fellow students 
• talk to the Spirit of Sussex team
• enjoy our photobooth and freshly baked cookies. 

Guidance on recording attendance with Sussex Mobile app

Please make sure to look at guidance on how to record your attendance at teaching sessions, where the Sussex Mobile app is used to that (with a PIN).

We have published a short step-by-step guide for students on the IT Services website.

Food freebies are happening all week 

Whether you are a new to Sussex or back for another great year, Sussex Uni Food is excited to welcome you to campus. 

Moving into campus accommodation? Head to Eat Central for something to eat. We have got everything from a classic english breakfast to crispy chicken from House of Cluck and tasty Bamboo bowls to keep you going while you unpack. 

And if you are craving pizza, check out Pizza Rebellion, where a robot makes your pizza 24/7 right here on campus, just outside Eat Central.

Save on bus fares and new bus routes 

We know travel costs can add up when you are studying and one of the biggest concerns students raise with us is the cost of public transport in Brighton.  

Whether you are heading to lectures, placements, work, or just exploring Brighton, getting around easily and affordably is a must.  

Listening to students’ feedback, we have been working in partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council and Brighton & Hove Buses to make local transport more affordable and sustainable. Find out how to save money on fares and learn about the new faster buses.  

Make new friends at the Students’ Union welcome events  

Starting university is all about meeting new people and finding your place and the Students’ Union has lots of events to help you do just that. You can check out the Freshers’ Fair to discover societies and freebies, join the Language Café to meet people from all over the world, or get stuck into Climate Justice Week, and One World Week to explore global issues and cultures. 

There are also social events for postgraduate and mature students, so no matter who you are, there should be something for you. It is a great chance to make friends, explore campus, and get to know your new home city, Brighton & Hove.  

A warm welcome for our international students 

Starting life at university can be daunting, especially if you are an international student, but adjusting to life in a new city and a new country is an exciting time. We have a thriving and friendly community of international students at Sussex. Make sure you have explored the international student web pages for information on life in the UK, academic support, health and welfare and much more.    

Sussex Sport free welcome week events

Welcome Week 2025 is officially on! Sussex Sport has lined up lots of free events to help you get active, meet new people, and check out sports activities happening on campus.

Whether you are into competitive sports, casual games, or just want to try something new there is something for you. 

All our Welcome Week events are free and will be run as drop-in sessions. Find out more.  

Get moving at our brand new wellbeing space, Active Arches  

The new Sussex Sport gym is now open. Located in the Sports Centre, it has everything you need for a great workout. Vice-Chancellor Sasha Roseneil visited with students and Team GB athletes Jayden Prempeh (American Football) and Freddy Ireland (Paracycling), to take a take a look around, why not pop down and take a look too! And do not miss out on your chance to get membership even cheaper with our Early Bird offer – offer ends soon.

Introducing Travel Hub at The Arches  

Run with the Students’ Union, the University’s Sustainability Team, The Bike Shack, and Brighton Bike Hub, the Travel Hub is your go-to spot for travel info, discounts, and commuting tips, whether you are using public transport, cycling, or car sharing. 

We refurbish pre-loved bikes and sell them at student-friendly prices, offer donation-based repairs, and stock essentials like helmets, locks, and lights. 

No bike experience? No problem. Our volunteer training is open to all levels, just bring your enthusiasm. 

Open Tuesday to Friday, 12–6:30pm.  

Book yourself in for some canine cuddles 

Every Wednesday during Semester 1, you can book a Canine Cuddles session on campus for 20 minutes of calm and connection with friendly therapy dogs from Canine Concern. It is a simple way to reset midweek, with no prior experience with dogs needed. Sessions are held in different campus locations, and spaces are limited, so booking ahead is essential. 

It is a small moment of wellbeing time that can make a big difference! More details, and how to book a session are in this article. 

With best wishes,

Kate

Professor Kate O'Riordan

Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students)