Student Life Must Go On New Online Activities Help Students Stay Connected During Lockdown

13 November 2020

The new national lockdown doesn't mean student life has to grind to a halt, with dance party classes, live cook-alongs and eSports competitions just some of the events planned for Lincoln students over the coming weeks.

The new national lockdown doesn’t mean student life has to grind to a halt, with dance party classes, live cook-alongs and eSports competitions just some of the events planned for Lincoln students over the coming weeks.

Teams from across the University of Lincoln, including the Wellbeing Centre, Residential Wardens, the University Sports Centre and Students’ Union, will be delivering a wealth of online activities to keep students connected and engaged throughout November. A schedule of motivational exercise classes and activities has been devised by staff at the Sports Centre to help keep students fit and healthy during the lockdown period. Virtual exercise classes, on-demand fitness videos, running and walking groups, and personal training sessions are all available.

Student Danni Threlfall, said: “The activities all look so fun, I think the variety within the activities are a great way in which the University can engage lots of students in connecting with one another. The balance of academic sessions to entertaining E-sports competitions, means there would be an activity to pique anyone’s interest, and a great way to learn some new skills and talk with new people.

“I watched the Diwali Facebook live event, it was interesting and educational and I could not wait to have a look at the Lincoln Family Cultural Cookbook which is getting students to share recipes from their own cultural backgrounds. Even though we cannot meet face to face, talking virtually is a fantastic way to meet people who have similar hobbies, culture, background or just want to make some new friends.”

Student Amelia Ferguson took part in personal training sessions during the first lockdown. She said: “I really enjoyed the sessions during lockdown they helped to motivate me. It was great to have people to talk to that shared an interest in getting fit, and we all had a lot of fun.”

Opportunities to socialise and connect despite the current restrictions include a weekly Feel Good programme of events run by Lincoln Students’ Union featuring virtual quizzes, peace of mind workshops and eSports gaming leagues. Elsewhere, the Library will host regular webinars to help boost study skills, while the Chaplaincy Service will be available for a virtual chat and coffee for anyone who would like to talk.

There will also be a wealth of content available on the University website and social media channels, including podcasts, self-help guides and support groups.

Judith Carey, Academic Registrar, said: “As well as providing a wide range of academic and professional services support, we hope students will also enjoy the wide variety of online social events available to help them make the most of their time here.

“We are extremely proud of the resilience students are showing and their willingness to come together to help protect all of our communities.”

A full list of activities and support available to students is available on the University of Lincoln website.

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