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,,,<img src="images/passages/campus_choice.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="University of Kent Banner">
Would you like to play the game as a student based at the [[Canterbury|canterbury]] or [[Medway|medway]] campus?<img src="images/passages/canterbury.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Ariel Image of Canterbury Campus">
Set in 300 acres of beautiful green parkland, the Canterbury campus overlooks the historic city of Canterbury providing incredible views of the World Heritage Site Canterbury Cathedral and beyond.
Founded in 1965 with just 500 students, it is now home to over 16,000 students with over 150 nationalities represented. And you're just about to become one! The self-contained Canterbury campus has a close-knit student community with lots of activities on offer. Campus life revolves around six colleges, the Templeman Library, the Gulbenkian arts centre and the Mandela Building (home of Kent Union) – all set among tranquil, manicured open spaces.
Canterbury is always bustling with visitors and has a friendly vibe thanks to its lively bars and atmospheric pubs. Medieval buildings sit comfortably alongside recogniseable chain and independent shops, just a 25-minute walk from campus. London is only an hour away by high-speed train and this is also the closest UK city to mainland Europe, so you can be in Paris, Brussels or Lille within two hours, if the desire suddenly takes you.
You have just been dropped off, you've collected your house keys and they deposited all your bags and an emergency food shop in your new room. You told them they were OK to leave you and [[now you're on your own]].
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We’re currently working hard on the story line for the Medway campus and hope to be able to release this soon. Many of the Kent university services available to students are identical at both Medway and Canterbury campuses including Academic Advisers, Student Learning and Advisory Service (SLAS), careers advice and the library. Playing the game from the Canterbury campus perspective will still help you to adjust to university life here at Medway.
For further information about all the exciting events that are waiting you during your first week at Medway, please check out the Freshers page: https://gkunions.co.uk/welcomeweek/
Please take a moment to enjoy some of the images above taken at our Medway campus which highlight just some of the many facilities available for our students.
Please return to the [[Canterbury Campus|canterbury]].
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The campus looks huge and yet so contained. You're already won over by the picture perfect setting. You've spotted some students enjoying a picnic on the green overlooking the city, others are quietly reading, one group is playing frisbee and one student is even taking a quick nap in the shade under a tree.
So that's what the university looks like. But when it comes to what you look like, whether you're confidently studious, a social butterfly, a nervous introvert or just a "cross your fingers and hope for the best" type of student, Kent will look after you. It will nurture you and push you to be the best you can be. Whether you like it or not. Remember to study hard but don't stay in your room all the time. Get out. Mix. Experience everything university has to offer. See where it takes you.
It's time to make you an official Kent student. Do you go to the sports centre to [[register]] or [[go rogue|rogue]] and hope you can register later? <!-- Container for the image gallery -->\
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The Canterbury campus looks picturesque in every season. From commanding views over the City of Canterbury, crisp frost on the Yorkstone paths of the labyrinth, majestic buildings nestled in their leafy beds to carpets of bluebells stretching between main campus and Parkwood, the accommodation village.
You check out where you are on the [[campus map|maps]]<img src="images/passages/register.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Sports Centre">
You check the admissions list of what you need to register as an official Kent student.
ID documents, check.
Accommodation Arrival Pass, check.
University and College Payment Advice letter from Student Finance England, check.
Proof of qualifications, check.
Standing outside the sports centre, one new student is having a heated debate with what you assume is her father. She hasn't got her passport or any other ID and they are arguing about who is going to drive back to Leeds to get it. Dad storms off, car keys in hand.
Student helpers cheerfully usher you into the building. You're standing in the large, glass fronted foyer of the sports centre. A well-meaning student helper points to where you can find the toilets if you need them. You're aware how fidgety you look right now. Prominent banners encourage you to [[register in the hall to the right]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<img src="images/passages/rogue.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Caffe Nero Counter">
It's quite early, you still haven't registered so officially you are not a student yet. Therefore you don't have access to your timetable, ID card or online resources yet.
That must make it snack time. You spot Nero's coffee shop in the central plaza. In the short queue you quickly decide which of the many, many coffee combinations to purchase. The students in front of you are chatting about their accommodation and laugh at the amount of stuff they've brought with them, like they thought there were no shops in Canterbury. One of their housemates apparently only turned up with a rucksack while rest arrived in the car packed so full it struggled to get over the speed humps.
You choose a comfy chair facing the window with your mocha-choca latte with extra pouring cream. You also bought a flapjack the size of a cruise liner. You're hoping the sick feeling in your stomach is due to being hungry, (it's hours since you had breakfast) and not nerves. People wander past outside. Fresh faces, clean trainers, busy. Your crisp paper map shows a plethora of odd shaped buildings scattered across campus. You're not even sure which one is your school yet.
Suddenly, someone appears next to the chair opposite and asks if he can use the seat. Do you say [[yes, go ahead]] or lie and say that you're waiting for a friend and [[the seat is taken]]?
<img src="images/passages/induction.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woolf Lecture Theatre">
You're inside a lecture theatre in Woolf college. It's massive. The sea of red seats stretches up and almost out of sight. A blue bag is packaged neatly in front of each seat. Your clammy hands clutch your bag. You rapidly scan the space.
A few students are already seated. Some are looking at their phones and a handful are chatting. You don't recognise anyone and why would you? No-one looks over at you, you're as good as invisible.
As you hover in the doorway, other students shuffle past and take a seat without hesitation. More students are filing in through the doorway opposite and the theatre is alive with conversation. Several attendees are rifling through their blue bags, pulling notebooks and stationery out and flicking through the pages of information, discussing content with their peers. You fear you don't look clever or calm enough to be here.
Perhaps this is one challenge too far. Perhaps someone made a mistake when they offered you a place at Kent. Perhaps they even said "they'll probably struggle, but let's just see how far they get".
Decision time, do you go grab a seat and [[stay and listen|stay]] to the induction or do you do a [[runner|runner]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/stay.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woolf Lecture Theatre">
A man strides onto the stage at the front. He introduces himeself as the Head of School, Professor Colin Lucas. He introduces some key members of staff. The school administration manager, Jan, followed by Christine, the head of @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. The three of them oversee everything that happens within the school and help look after the students there.
Professor Lucas shows slides highlighting the location of key facilities, the history of the school (and why he thinks it is the best one!) as well as the demographics of the university as a whole. You're surprised to hear about the diversity at Kent. There are over 3,000 members of staff from over 120 different countries. As for students, last year nearly 25% were from overseas and 40% were from BME backgrounds (Black and Minority Ethnic) proving Kent is an incredibly culturally diverse university.
Next, Jan glides onto the stage with such speed her floaty scarf trails behind her like she is in a wind tunnel. She has a small black notebook littered with bright coloured mini post-it notes poking out all around the edges. She explains how your degree course is split up into 3 years, called stages and you can add an extra stage if you do a year abroad or in industry. You're in stage 1. She explains how everything is organised into modules and that you need to pass a certain number of modules to get enough credits to go to the next year. She doesn't share what happens if you don't get enough credits. [[You don't want to give Jan a reason to discuss it either]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/runner.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Outside the Templeman Library">
You hastily exit the lecture theatre and head outside. It's not that hot but you're distinctly aware of the newly acquired sweat patches on your not-so-neatly-ironed t-shirt. You start walking back to central campus. You feel overwhelmed and unsure what to do. It's too early to call home and say you want to leave, but that's what you feel like doing right now.
You find a wooden bench outside the Templeman library building. The view is fabulous but it does nothing to cheer you up. You need some time to feel properly sorry for yourself. You google search starting university and feeling anxious and click one of the multiple references to 'impostor syndrome'. The description matches you completely.
Yes, you feel like a fraud for being here and that you're not really up to the educational standard of your peers. You don't know how to work a washing machine and some days you can't even remember your name. You are absolutely not ready for this. Well guess what? Everyone is just as scared as you, they're just probably hiding it better than you. You're all in the same boat. You tell yourself you won't get another opportunity like this in your life time, probably, so give yourself a week to really give it a go. Be kind to yourself but at the same time push yourself to speak to as many people as you can.
Deep breath. You cautiously walk back to Woolf lecture theatre and [[sneak in|stay]]. Students turn up late all the time, it is fine.<img src="images/passages/library.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Map of the Library">
The Templeman library is HUGE, stretching out across the centre of campus, commanding a very impressive view across Canterbury. Inside, it has unusual organic-shaped study pods and its own cafe. The place is buzzing with people, either on the help desk, wheeling trollies of books around, students tapping away on their laptops or just simply reading.
You look at the large display screen showing a map of each floor. It's easy to locate your subject area. You wonder how many shelves of books you're going to be reading before graduation.
You can't physically get far into the building without swiping your KentOne card on the access turnstile. It's like being in a train station.
The library is offering a tour of the building every hour and the next one starts in 5 minutes. Do you want to [[stay|tour]] and find out a few extra nuggets of information or confidentally [[grab a leaflet|leaflet]] and walk around on your own?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 5>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/union.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Freshers Fair">
Freebies! So many people in official Kent t-shirts handing out sweets, pens, wrist bands and so on.
You spot the poster fair and decide to check out what's on offer. You'll need something to personalise your magnolia bedroom walls. You buy one that contains messages about positive thinking and motivation and another depicting the Van Gogh Starry Night painting because you like the swirly bits as well as a black and white London skyline silhouette poster, as it was cheap.
You spot the area for purchasing a 'KPASS'. It gives free access to all sorts of stuff throughout Welcome Week as well as a free t-shirt (handy) and ticket to the Freshers Ball at the end of the week. You buy the pass and collect your goodies.
You check what is left on your 'to do' list. Perhaps you'll want to visit the [[library|library]], register at the [[medical centre|medical]] or just go back to your [[accommodation|room]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 5>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/medical.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Medical Centre">
It's time to register at the University Medical Centre. You note that there is a pharmacy right next door. Both buildings are big and modern.
It turns out you could just register online (convenient), however you've smugly worked out where the medical centre building is and it is so close to the accomodation area, just in case you need to run there in your PJ's one morning.
If you haven't done so already, you need to visit the [[library]] and the [[Kent Union|union]] before you return back to your [[accommodation|room]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 5>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/campusmap2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="University Campus Map">
You realise that university is in fact a number of separate schools each with their own specialities. Although you will have lectures and seminars across the whole university your own school is likely to be based in one particular building. As Kent is a campus university, every building is within easy reach. The building you want to check out will depend on the course you are taking:
Keynes College for the <<link [[School of Psychology|keynes]]>><<set $school = "Psychology">><</link>>
Marlowe building for the <<link [[School of Architecture|marlowe]]>><<set $school = "Architecture">><</link>> and the <<link [[School of Anthropology and Conservation|marlowe]]>><<set $school = "Anthropology & Conservation">><</link>>
Jarman building for the <<link [[School of Arts|jarman]]>><<set $school = "Arts">><</link>>
Cornwallis for the <<link [[School of European Culture and Languages (SECL)|cornwallis]]>><<set $school = "SECL">><</link>>, <<link [[School of Computing|cornwallis]]>><<set $school = "Computing">><</link>> and the <<link [[School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research (SSPSSR)|cornwallis]]>><<set $school = "SSPSSR">><</link>>
Rutherford College for the <<link [[School of History|rutherford]]>><<set $school = "History">><</link>>, <<link [[School of English|rutherford]]>><<set $school = "English">><</link>> and <<link [[School of Politics and International Relations|rutherford]]>><<set $school = "Politics & IR">><</link>>
Stacey building for the <<link [[School of Biosciences|stacey]]>><<set $school = "Biosciences">><</link>>
Jennison building for the <<link [[School of Engineering and Digital Arts (EDA)|jennison]]>><<set $school = "EDA">><</link>>
Sibson building for the <<link [[School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science (SMSAS)|sibson]]>><<set $school = "SMSAS">><</link>> and <<link [[Kent Business School (KBS)|sibson]]>><<set $school = "KBS">><</link>>
Ingram building for the <<link [[School of Physical Sciences|ingram]]>><<set $school = "Physical Sciences">><</link>>
Eliot College Extension and Wigoder Law Building for <<link [[Kent Law School (KLS)|eliotextension]]>><<set $school = "KLS">><</link>>
Kennedy Building for the <<link [[School of Economics|economics]]>><<set $school = "Economics">><</link>>
The Centre of Music and Audio Technology, School of Pharmacy, School of Sport and Exercise Sciences and the Centre for Journalism can all be found at the Medway campus.
Everything is neatly contained within the campus so getting between places is going to be easy and you'll soon have this memorised. You spot where your school is and walk in that direction.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 5>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/room.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Flats">
You wearily walk back to your accommodation in Parkwood, it's just a couple of minutes walk from the central campus but it has been a very long day and your legs refuse to compute 'fast'. The pathways and cycle tracks wind you through a picturesque and tranquil wooded area. It's very serene. Squirrels dash about overhead and there's a family of [[rabbits]] a stone's throw from your door.
All the accommodation is arranged into small 'mini-villages'. And there is even a shop, a new bar, a dance studio, two laundrettes, two modern [[study hubs|hubs]], as well as being a hop and a skip away from the [[sports pavillion|pavilion]].
Your little village area is called [[Parkwood Flats|Parkwood]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/join.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Societies">
That's it, get stuck in! Just because you sign up to things doesn't mean you're forced to attend everything, but this will give you a great mixture of groups to network with and new skills to acquire. Looks good on your CV too!
You squeeze through the crowds to the tables you're interested in. There's quite a huddle of students around the African-Caribbean Society, the Kent Sing and gliding tables. You're now a fully fledged archer who bakes and appreciates adventure gaming. They will each email you their event timetables and let you know what activities are being arranged.
You then find your subject table and sign-up for free. The society is run by students who are doing the same course as you, but in their second and third study years so they're on hand to provide any guidance that you might need. You also learn they organise social events, quiz nights, trips and visiting speakers that all relate in some way to your course. Easy peasy. You sign up to their mailing list, make a note of their Facebook page and already feel excited about receiving your first event invite.
After more wandering you and Tiz decide to [[leave the Welcome Fair|out]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/wait.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sweets">
It is possible to join clubs and societies later in the term but you'll have missed out on all the introductions and orientation information. The Welcome Fair will still all be set up in the Kent Union and plaza for one more day so you can always come back tomorrow.
That's a good stash of leaflets you've collected and at least 12 free lollies in your tote bag, so you're not going home empty handed.
Tiz has finished joining societies too and you both decide to [[leave the Welcome Fair|out]].
<img src="images/passages/keynes.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Keynes College">
One of the original university buildings, Keynes is a warren of lecture theatres, seminar rooms, meeting rooms, IT suites and study rooms. It is also home to K-Bar, the Dolche Vita restaurant and the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support and Wellbeing Centre">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. There are also plenty of offices and an extensive professional services team ensuring help is always on hand.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
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<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/marlowe.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Marlowe Building">
Not to be confused with its namesake theatre in Canterbury, the Marlowe building houses the Create cafe at one end of the foyer as well as further design studios, model workshops with modern laser cutting facilities, computer studios, labs, lecture theatres and teaching rooms. The numerous offices and extensive professional services office near the entrance ensuring help is always on hand.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
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<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>>
<img src="images/passages/jarman.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Jarman Building">
The building looks over the Student Union and has an imposing presence. Once through the sliding doors there is a labyrinth of angular staircases, corridors, quirky furniture and wall cut outs. It has its own drama theatre, art and film studios, galleries, teaching rooms and offices. The proinent reception and professional services office near the entrance ensures help is always on hand.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
State.metadata.set('visitedSchool', true);
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<</script>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/cornwallis.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Cornwallis Building">
Arranged as a vast square with a large central garden area, Cornwallis is filled with lecture and seminar rooms, IT suites, labs and study areas.
The numerous offices and extensive professional services office near the entrance ensuring help is always on hand.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
State.metadata.set('visitedSchool', true);
}
<</script>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/rutherford2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Entrance to Rutherford Building">
The building is one of the original 1965 structures and looks like it might have been in a mystery film at some time. Once through the entrance tunnel, you're strangely standing in the open again! There is a central courtyard with a tree in the middle. To ether side there are doors leading to the warren of lecture theatres, teaching rooms, offices, a huge dining hall that rivals Hogwarts and an extensive professional services office ensuring help is always on hand.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
State.metadata.set('visitedSchool', true);
}
<</script>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/stacey.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Stacey Building">
Stacey is named after the inspirational Ken Stacey who was the founder of the School of Biosciences. The building is home to science labs, research labs (straight out of an episode of Silent Witness) and lecture theatres. You wonder if you'll get the chance to try out the Biomolecular Science Facility, Cell Image Analysis Facility or the Biological NMR Facility whilst you are studying here. The School is also home to some impressive specialist equipment in fast reaction kinetics, fermentation and class 3 containment to name a few.
The friendly, supportive, Professional Services team are always on hand to offer any help and guidance, which explains why so many students look relaxed here.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
State.metadata.set('visitedSchool', true);
}
<</script>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>>
<img src="images/passages/jennison.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Jennison Building">
The low unassuming nature of the building masks the labyrinth of teaching rooms, lecture halls, electronic lab, clean air suite, offices and even its own cafe. The large open plan professional services office near the entrance ensures that help is always on hand.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
State.metadata.set('visitedSchool', true);
}
<</script>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/sibson.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Sibson Building">
The impressive metallic exoskeleton shimmers in the sunlight and showcases why this building won an architecture award. Inside, it is like a state of the art FTSE100 organisation with digital poster displays, large atrium and wide sweeping staircases. There is a mixture of glass walled teaching rooms, huge lecture halls, offices and even its own cafe. The large reception desks at either end of the building ensure help is always on hand.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
State.metadata.set('visitedSchool', true);
}
<</script>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/ingram.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Ingram Building">
The building looks like it might contain a vast pharmaceutical organisation or modern hospital. Once through the dominating yellow facade the foyer provides directions to state-of-the-art wet and dry labs, the observatory and even its own crime scene house! There are also lecture theatres, teaching rooms, offices and an extensive professional services office near the entrance ensuring help is always on hand.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
State.metadata.set('visitedSchool', true);
}
<</script>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/eliotextension.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Eliot College Law Extension">
Everything about this building screams professionalism. Not only does it have its very own ultra-realistic courtroom it is also home to the Kent Law Clinic staffed by students to give access to free legal advice. Packed with lecture theatres, teaching rooms, sleek offices and an extensive professional services team to ensure help is always on hand, this building is impressive.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
State.metadata.set('visitedSchool', true);
}
<</script>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/economics.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Kennedy Economics Building">
Set in the financial and business heart of the campus, this brand new building has a definite Scandi feel about it. The large open plan foyer is set up for accommodating informal meetings whilst elsewhere there are a mixture of smaller and larger seminar rooms, lecture rooms, IT suites and offices. There is also an extensive professional services team ensuring help is always on hand.
As expected, a number of Kent helpers in their signature green t-shirts are on hand to show you around or you can wander freely and explore on your own. You pick the latter option.
You notice the room with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "academic adviser's">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ name on it. Do you [[knock on the door|knock]] and take advantage of an opportunity to introduce yourself, or do you [[tip-toe past|leave]]? After all, you've got a whole 3 years to get to know this person.
<<script>>
if(!State.metadata.get('visitedSchool'))
{
GA.sendEvent("School", "Player Data", State.getVar('$school'));
Namespace.setAssignmentType();
State.metadata.set('visitedSchool', true);
}
<</script>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/knock.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge Door">
You knock and a clear voice from inside instructs you to go in. You hesitate for a minute, unsure of what to expect, worried you'll be lost for words. That would be embarrassing. What were you thinking? You have nothing to say. There must be hundreds of new students, why would he want to see you?
You look at the door again "Professor Mark Partridge". He sounds important. Do you cautiously [[enter the room|enter]] or shout apologetically that you knocked on the wrong door and [[move swiftly away|away]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Campus Plaza">
It doesn't feel right just to invite yourself into an academic's office without an invite so you make a note of where the office is in case you ever need to visit in future.
You leave the school building after inspecting the toilets. You can tell a lot about a place by the quality of the loos. To your relief, they're so much better than the school ones you've endured. They have paper, seats and even doors!
You stand outside, pondering where to go next. You look at your list.
[[Library|library]], [[Kent Union|union]], [[medical centre|medical]] or head back to your [[accommodation|room]]?<img src="images/passages/enter.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge's Office">
You walk in. The room is lined from top to bottom with shelves packed full of books in every size and colour. A blue chair is piled high with papers and a large bicycle rests against the only shelf-free wall. A [[strange rug|rug]] that looks like the surface of the moon is on the floor. You're not sure if you're allowed to step on it or not.
The Professor turns his chair away from his hectic desk and smiles enthusiastically.
He begins to [[talk]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 4>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/away.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge's Door">
What just happened? You look around hoping no-ne spotted you losing your nerve. Before you make a run for it, you notice that Professor Partridge has put his drop in office hours on his door. You make a mental note to call by during those times next week, afterall, that's when he has clearly says he doesn't mind being disturbed.
You leave the school building after inspecting the toilets. You can tell a lot about a place by the quality of the loos. To your relief, they're so much better than the school ones you've endured. They have paper, seats and even doors!
Where do you want to go now? [[Library|library]], [[Kent Union|union]], [[medical centre|medical]] or head back to your [[accommodation|room]]?<img src="images/passages/leaflet.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Banner">
You wonder if that was a good idea. They're probably just going to walk you up and down the shelves of books, or are they? There were lots of students in the tour group and now they're going to know about stuff that you won't. You suddenly get that FOMO feeling.
You look at the leaflet then decide to take the staircase up to the top floor. Yep, more books. You check out the toilets, just to see what they're like. You're relieved to see they are both ultra-modern and clean.
You're unsure what to check next. Do you want to see if you can blag yourself [[onto the current tour|tour]] or make a mental note to read up about the library on [[the Kent website|website]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/tour.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Group Study Area">
The tour group is a little late to start but you're soon ushered around the ground floor to look at the different archives and materials. You realise there's more to the Templeman building than meets the eye.
In the group there are 3 other new students. As you walk from one part of the library to the next, the 2 male students chat about where they're from and what accommodation they're in. The female student looks a little shell-shocked and awkwardly looks at her phone to avoid eye contact. Do you [[initiate a conversation|conversation]] with her or show solidarity by [[getting your phone out too|phone]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/conversation.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Information Panel">
She looks at you, relieved that someone has actually acknowledged her existence. The phone quickly slips back into her bag and is forgotten. She speaks quietly, you're unsure whether that's because you're standing in a library and those are the rules, or she genuinely has a hushed voice. Either way, she sounds friendly and she tells you her name is Nova and she's studying Forensic Science. Nova has just come out of her Welcome induction event and this is the first place she has investigated. Before you have the chance to get into a deep and meaningful conversation the Library Assistant tells us the [[tour can now begin|begin]]. We're handed a map of the library to help with our orientation.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/phone.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mobile Phone">
Nothing. No emails or messages. You decide to work out how to connect to the [[university wifi|wifi]] instead. Eventually the librarian stops the group and [[starts talking again|begin]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/begin.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
The librarian is now explaining about the different types of study spaces in the library and about the laptop loan facility. You are each asked about the schools you are based in and shown the relevant areas of the library.
The taller of the two male students called Jon replies in his comedy deep voice. He is doing a course in the same school as you. You reckon he could convincingly pass as a member of staff if he covered up his 'Marvel' t-shirt. The other male student, Otis, is studying law. The female student, Nova quietly states she is studying Forensics.
The librarian explains how to connect to the library network (you'll be using that A LOT, apparently) and where to find the printers and scanners. After pointing out the toilets and facilities on each floor the tour comes to and end and you are advised to check the library website for all the information you might need about loans, searching for materials and other useful information videos.
At the end of the tour, Jon asks the group where everyone is going for lunch. Do you convincingly say you've [[made plans to meet a friend|lie]] or suggest you find somewhere and [[eat lunch together|together]]?<img src="images/passages/wifi.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="University of Kent Wifi">
You set up your IT and wifi access really quickly and easily via the IT pages on the Kent webpage. The IT deartment emails your account confirmation straight away.
Now you're connected, you can access the university wifi across the whole parkland campus, including your bedroom.
The librarian resumes the [[library tour|begin]]
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/rug.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge's Rug">
On closer inspection you realise it is a satellite image of the World War One trenches - how unusual!
You turn your attention back to [[Professor Partridge|enter]].<img src="images/passages/lie.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Campus Shops">
You thank the library assistant for the tour, grab the leaflets that are offered and scurry out of the library. Perhaps it would have been better to have had lunch as a group, safety in numbers right? But what if they're not your kind of people? You remind yourself that you need to join in more and promise yourself that you'll say 'yes' to the next opportunity to meet new people.
Your thoughts are interrupted by a loud stomach growl. You check the [[campus map|map2]] to see where you can eat.
There's a huge choice and it is all within walking distance. You're not in the mood for mingling in a cafe so you head to the [[Kent Union Shop|shop]] to see what snacks are on offer.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/together.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Gulbenkian Cafe">
You head out of the library with Jon, Otis and Nova and stand on the long steps of the library debating where to head for lunch. Otis has already connected his phone to the University wifi and located the web page with all the options and Nova is looking at the [[campus map|map3]]. There's so much choice and it is all nearby. You all agree on the Gulbenkian cafe and Nova uses the map to guide you round to the back of the library where the [[Gulbenkian|gulbenkian]] is located.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/map2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Union Shop">
All the cafe's are close by. There's a huge choice: Woody's, Create, Dolche Vita, Gulbenkian cafe, hut8, K-Bar, Mungo's, Origins, Pavilion Cafe, Rutherford Dining Hall, Sibson Cafe, The Sports Cafe and not forgetting the various food bars on the plaza. Worried about bumping into the library tour group, you locate the [[Kent Union Shop|shop]] opposite and head there.<img src="images/passages/shop.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Campus Shop">
The shop is playing your favourite Dave track on the Student Radio as you walk in. You take that as a good omen.
You can't decide between the salad bar, a sausage roll from the hot food area or a BLT sandwich. You buy all three plus a Kitkat and head back out into the plaza. As you perch one one of the benches you contemplate where to go next. Do you go next door to [[Kent Union|union]], wander over to the [[medical centre|medical]] or head back to your [[accommodation|room]]?<img src="images/passages/maps3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A map of the main campus">
The map shows all the eating venues. There's so much choice: Woody's, Create, Dolce Vita, Gulbenkian cafe, hut8, K-Bar, Mungo's, Origins, Pavilion Cafe, Rutherford Dining Hall, Sibson Cafe, The Sports Cafe, and not forgetting the various food bars on the plaza.
The [[Gulbenkian cafe|gulbenkian]] is the closest so you all agree to go there.<img src="images/passages/gulbenkian.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Gulbenkian Cinema">
The cafe is bright and jostling with people, both students and what you assume are staff. It feels strange to be mixing like this. You notice that as well as being a cafe, the building is also home to a cinema, a theatre and a concert hall.
Your stomach snarls impatiently. You order a huge cheese and ham panini with a side of fries as well as a much needed cafe latte. Otis must be hungry too as he orders a burger and fries whereas Jon and Nova opt for a health-kick sandwich loaded with lots of salad. You sit at a table near what would have been the window but because the day is so warm the walls of the cafe have been opened up and you are eating al fresco.
As you sit in the Autumn sun, you discuss what to do next. Nova has not visited the [[Kent Union|union]] yet, Jon wants to check out where his school is so he knows where to go for tomorrow's subject induction event. Otis has had enough for the day and wants to walk back to his [[room]]. Have you registered at the [[medical centre|medical]] yet?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/out.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Pizza Slice">
There are visiting companies advertising their products at the Welcome Fair too and on your way out you manage to grab a free yellow-looking smoothie and a slice of pizza, just to keep you going!
[[Mmmm, smoothie|pizza]]<img src="images/passages/investigate_pizza_must crop heads.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students in the Kitchen">
Mmm, pizza! Mmm, yellow-ish drink!
You walk back home with Tiz. The sun is low in the sky and it gives everything a warm glow, which is exactly how you are feeling right now. Tiz is as excited as a toddler on Christmas morning, having just joined the women's lacrosse club and Kent Sing. It transpires that Tiz has an incredible singing voice, having been in several choir productions back in her home town.
When you get back home, Saffa, Chimmy and Zak are all in the kitchen. Saffa looks quite cheerful and is watching Zak eat a punnet of baby plum tomatoes (he explains they are his five-a-day in one hit). Zak had been to the Welcome Fair that morning so you advise Chimmy and Saffa to go tomorrow before it closes.
The discussion soon turns to [[food]] and how best to go about catering for everyone in the most efficient way.<img src="images/passages/website.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Templeman Library">
You quickly log onto the website on your phone. Looks packed with information about support, opening times, borrowing rules etc. That was quicker than a tour! You're sure you can find everything you'll need on that webpage so you exit the library and sit in the sunshine on the terrace outside of the library to decide what to do next.
Have you been to the [[Kent Union|union]] yet? Perhaps you want to go and inspect the finer elements of the [[medical centre|medical]]? Or perhaps you've had enough of the campus buzz for one day and prefer to walk back to your [[room]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/talk.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
He doesn't sound scary at all, quite normal in fact. He congratulates you for finding his office and welcomes you to Kent.
The Professor tells you that there is a subject induction event at the school first thing tomorrow where you will be introduced to all the subject staff and given a quick tour of the school as well as explaining how he can help you in your studies.
You promise to go to the induction event and to book an appointment to see him again soon. You know you're going to get on really well with Professor Partridge (he has told you to call him Mark) during the remainder of your time at Kent.
You thank him for his time and leave his chaotic office. Before leaving the school building you need to use the toilets. You can tell a lot about a place by the quality of the loos. To your relief, they're so much better than the school ones you've endured. They have paper, seats and even doors!
Standing in the sunlight outside, you can see the [[Kent Union|union]] and the [[library|library]] but you also feel tired and wonder if you should walk back to your [[accommodation|room]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/hubs.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woodys Parkwood Complex">
Woody's IT hub is a brand new IT study space which is open 24/7 for all KentOne card holders. Nickle Court study hub is a relaxed space for working alone or quietly in small groups. It's open 24 hours a day for Park Wood residents and has PC's, study spaces, a drinks machine and printing/scanning facilities.
You can check availability of any of the PC's there and at any of the other study hubs online to save yourself an unnecessary walk.
Return to your [[accommodation|room]].<img src="images/passages/rabbits.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Bunny Rabbits on Campus">
Isn't he cute?
Get used to these fluff balls as they go hand in hand with living on campus. They are quite happy to hop around the accommodation area as they are to put in an appearance on central campus. That's what happens when you live in a parkland.
Now let's get back to your [[accommodation|room]]<img src="images/passages/pavilion.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Sports Pavilion">
Home to Kent Sport, offering dance and fitness classes as well as sporting clubs and facilities such as indoor and outdoor courts, pitches and even a physiotherapy clinic.
You are impressed by the events that are on offer, and so close to your room as well. You will definitely be spending some time here.
Let's get back to your [[accommodation|room]].<img src="images/passages/parkwood.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Room">
You go to your room where your parents had helped deposit your bags earlier. No-one else had moved into the flat by that point. Your room is pretty spacious, though not cavernous, and has plenty of storage to unpack the contents of home you brought with you.
You've got your own en-suite bathroom and it's got that lovely clean, fresh smell. Not sure how long that will last. There is also a large shared kitchen and 4 other rooms belonging to other students.
You sit in your room propping the door open so you can see if any of your flat mates turn up. You look at the large cake your Mum has wrapped in foil. "It'll help break the ice with your new house mates", she said. You idly look through the bag of freebies and leaflets that you picked up from registering earlier today, making an 'interested' and 'not interested' pile.
You hear the flat door opening and voices in the hallway. Do you [[close the door|close]], suddenly filled with anxiety or poke your head [[out of your room|nosey]] to see who is there?<img src="images/passages/close.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Maoams Sweets">
You hear the voices disappearing into the kitchen and after a short while semi-delicious cooking smells start to waft up to your room. Perhaps you should have joined them, as you've definitely got the munchies now. You pick at the free sweets you bagged at registration.
You hear the front door slam shut and more [[voices in the hallway|voices]].<img src="images/passages/nosey.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Cake">
Two of your flat mates Chimmy and Zak are chatting. They've also just come back from their tour of the campus. You all go into the large kitchen and you offer them a slice of Mum's cake which is eagerly accepted and devoured. You ponder how to rustle up some early dinner. Your culinary skills could do with some assistance but you offer to help make a meal to share between you.
Do you try to impress by suggesting you rustle up a [[spaghetti bolognese|spagbol]], play it safe with [[Nutella on toast|nutella]] (your favourite meal of all time), or admit defeat and offer the selection of [[free sweets|sweets]] you picked up earlier in the day and the rest of Mum's cake?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/spagbol.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woodys SU Shop">
Always aim high, even if you only actually know how to boil a kettle. Surely anyone can follow a recipe? Between you, you have all the ingredients apart from the spaghetti, which admittedly is quite important for spaghetti bolognese. You vote who gets to pop down to the Co-Op shop in Parkwood to buy the [[spaghetti]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/nutella.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Nutella on a knife.">
The number one choice! You tell Zak and Chimmy about your love affair with Nutella and bring out the extra large jar that your mum has stocked you up with for the term (you know it won't make it beyond the first week). Chimmy has a loaf of bread and busily makes the toast while Zak makes a big mug of tea for everyone with the remainder of his tiny carton of milk.
After dinner, you hear the front door slam shut and more [[voices in the hallway|voices]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/sweets.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sweets">
Hmmm, this doesn't really constitute self-catering but the sugar buzz is enough to keep hunger at bay. You all agree that you will each learn how to cook one meal and then take it in turns to share it with the rest of the house - great plan!
You hear the front door slam shut and more [[voices in the hallway|voices]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/spaghetti.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Spaghetti">
Chimmy is voted as the person most likely to walk the fastest so he sets off whilst you and Zak prepare the rest of the meal. The whole house smells good and Chimmy is soon back wth the spaghetti. The three of you sit down to eat at the dining table. It is surprisingly good and you all agree to cook this again tomorrow. And perhaps the day after.
After dinner you hear the front door slam shut and more [[voices in the hallway|voices]].<img src="images/passages/voices.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Dirty Dishes">
Two girls are in the hallway. They introduce themselves as Saffa and Tiz. They've just eaten dinner at the Dolche Vita restaurant in Keynes college and share their seal of approval with you.
The three of you walk into the kitchen where Chimmy and Zak are sitting at the table. Dirty cooking pans, plates and utensils litter the worksurfaces. Chimmy seems a bit flustered and immediately goes to the sink and starts to fill up a bowl of soapy water.
Do you [[offer to help|help]] or [[leave Chimmy to it|nohelp]], afterall he has already come across as the messy one?<img src="images/passages/no help_help.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Kitchen">
Chimmy looks gratefully at you as you grab the tea towel. You dry off each item whilst returning several dirty plates back to the sink for another rinse when Chimmy isn't looking. Although house keeping regularly come in to clean the house you know they won't do any washing up so you'd better get used to this!
Everyone in the kitchen shares where they're from, what they have done that day and what their school is like. Chimmy is at the same school as you but doing a different course. Saffa and Tiz are doing exactly the same course in French and Linguistics and they apparently met at their school earlier in the day. Zak is going to be studying in the School of Computing.
After a while, Zak suggests that you all walk back onto main campus to check out what's going on, if anything. Do you [[say yes|yes]] and get properly stuck in with bonding with your flat mates or [[decline|no]] and remind them that the subject induction events are first thing in the morning and it's been an exhausting first day but promise to hit the entertainment another night?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/no help_help.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Kitchen">
Although the house keeping team regularly come in to clean the house you know they won't be doing the washing up for you. You watch Chimmy wash the plates and leave them to drain on the side, there is something therapeutic about it. You don't realise that Chimmy is secretly seething that no-one offered to help him.
Everyone in the kitchen is now excitedly sharing details of the societies they have joined and what their school is like. Chimmy is also at the same school as you but it turns out he is doing a different course. Saffa and Tiz are doing exactly the same course in French and Linguistics and they apparently met at their school earlier in the afternoon. Zak is studying in the School of Computing.
You spend ages chatting and then Zak suggests that you walk back onto main campus to check out what's going on there, if anything. Do you [[say yes|yes]] and get properly stuck in with bonding with your flat mates or [[decline|no]] and remind them that the school induction events are first thing in the morning and it's been an exhausting first day and promise to hit the entertainment another night?<img src="images/passages/yes.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="K-Bar">
You both agree to go back to central campus and try out K-Bar. Located in Keynes, you can hear the noisy chatter from other students before you even reach the door. You head to the bar and order a couple of drinks. The lighting is cosy and the music is sufficiently quiet enough to permit conversation without needing to shout at the side of someone's head. You notice a group of students playing pool (badly, as someone has just passive-agressively blasted the white ball off the table and it is bouncing across the floor) and the smell of pizza wafts through the air.
Zak has managed to grab one of the comfy looking chesterfield sofas and you join him with the drinks and start to join in with the [[conversation|barchat]] that is in full flow with the students on the facing sofas.
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/no.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Campus Rabbit">
Very sensible. You remind Zak that you all have a school induction event first thing tomorrow and that you're fastidiuous about getting your beauty sleep. Zak seems unfazed by tomorrow's schedule and heads off back to central campus with Chimmy.
You'll be as bright eyed and bushy tailed as the rabbits outside your house by the morning, but Zak and Chimmy certainly won't. You say good night to Tiz and Saffa who have also decided to forgo the evening entertainment on the agreement that you make up for it another night.
Do you choose your [[unicorn pyjamas|unicorn]] with sparkly trim or play it safe with your conservative [[Harry Potter pyjamas|potter]] in case you get spotted by your new acquiantances?<img src="images/passages/unicorn.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Unicorn Pyjamas">
Epic choice! You're clearly at the cutting edge of fashion.
By the morning you are refreshed and raring to go. You grab a wholesome breakfast (thank goodness someone at home packed a box of cereal bars into your suitcase to get you through the first few days) and set off to your school ready for your [[induction lecture]].<img src="images/passages/potter.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Harry Potter">
Oh. Just wow. Timeless and classic!
Ever the wizard, you get a magical night's sleep, feeling refreshed in the morning and ready to go. You 'borrow' a bowl of cornflakes from an unnamed box in the kitchen, which you eat dry as there is currently no milk in the fridge (make note to buy some today in payment for the cornflakes). Yummm, they're just like crisps and very much under-rated as a snack.
No-one else is stirring in the flat as you leave and make the short stroll over to your school for the [[induction lecture]].<img src="images/passages/induction lecture.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
You arrive with plenty of time to spare. You feel smug for being so conscientious on your first study day and wonder whether you can keep that effort up for the next 3 years. Unlikely.
The school lecture theatre is big, but not as big as the one at yesterday's 'Welcome' event. You estimate it probably seats around 150 people. There are about 15 other people already seated in the room. You don't want to seem like a stalker but then again you don't want to look too aloof or nerdy by sitting somewhere totally empty.
Do you snap out of it and make a bee-line for the [[nearest seated student|company]] or chose a seat in an empty row which is [[just in front of one of the other students|empty row]]?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/downstairs.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Accomodation">
There's either no-one else in the house or the others are still asleep. You contemplate breakfast. In a pang of homesickness you make your favourite Nutella on toast.
You remember the induction event at your school, you check your watch. It starts in 7 minutes. If you leave now and power walk you can make it in 5 minutes. Do you [[put your shoes on and make a dash for it|dash]] or decide that you need to go back to bed for a few hours to [[top up your beauty sleep|hangover]]? Surely there will be another opportunity to pick up induction information later?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>>
<img src="images/passages/dash.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Accomodation">
You try to locate your shoes but can only find one of them next to a very dirty, ripped brown paper envelope. The other shoe is nowhere in sight. You'll question your flatmates about the missing shoe later, you reckon it must be some sort of new flatmate prank.
You locate your smart shoes and put those on. They're not ideal for power walking and the right shoe has an annoying squeak, but they'll have to do.
You squeak your way down to central campus. Embarrassing. You reach the school. The lecture theatre is easy to find but the doors are closed. Do you [[go in|go in]] or assume that the event has started and [[loiter awkwardly outside|loiter]]?<img src="images/passages/hangover_back home.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Toast">
You can't turn up to school like this. You need to be in tip top condition. There's bound to be others who miss the induction as well. You take yourself back to your lovely warm bed and sleep off the rest of the morning.
When you eventually wake up you are feeling surprisingly peckish. You go into the kitchen and look in the fridge.
No-one has done much in the way of food shopping so far and all you can locate is a wrapped pasty (not yours), some dregs at the bottom of the milk carton, a tiny tub of margarine containing mostly toast crumbs and the majority of a loaf of bread. The contents of the cupboards don't yield good results either. A packet of dried spaghetti, a jar of cheap looking jam (you know it's cheap as it just has a white label on it saying 'JAM'), a pot of dried herbs and some sachets of salt and pepper that look suspiciously like they had accompanied a takeaway.
Do you grab the [[pasty]] and devour it quickly whilst in the kitchen before anyone else gets home, take a couple of slices of [[bread]] to make some toast, decide to try out cooking [[spaghetti with herbs]] sprinkled on the top or leave the kitchen and go back out to buy something at the [[Co-Op shop]]?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/loiter.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Outside A Lecture Theatre">
You pace back and forth just outside the double doors. You can just about hear the muffled voice of what you assume to be a lecturer addressing the audience on the other side. Damn, how could you have missed the first school event?
Just then another student walks past you, opens one of the doors and walks into the lecture theatre. You didn't realise you can just walk in whenever you arrive. You wonder if that applies to leaving when you like as well. You suddenly feel a bit embarrassed about having hung around and, hot on the heels of the student you've just seen, you enter the [[lecture theatre|go in]].
<img src="images/passages/go in.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woolf College">
You've made it. You nervously look about, trying to find a spare seat. The lecture theatre is pretty big and there are quite a few spare seats at [[the back|back]], some in [[the middle|middle]] which are awkward to get to, or the entire firing line at [[the front|front]] is empty.
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/front_middle_back.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woolf Lecture Theatre">
You pick the nearest aisle and head up the steps to the back of the lecture theatre, shoe squeaking every time it makes contact with the steps. It causes a few students to snigger. You're quite out of breath once you reach the top and wheezily settle yourself down at a seat next to the steps. The audio is surprisingly good from up here and you realise how impressive the room is. The speakers dotted around the walls ensure everyone can hear perfectly. You also have a great view of the three projector screens at the front so there is not a chance you'll miss anything. The only downside is that you've chosen a seat in an unpopulated row so there's no-one to network with or ask what you have missed so far.
You get your note book and pen out and listen to the [[lecturer]].<img src="images/passages/front_middle_back.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woolf Lecture Theatre">
You walk half way up the nearest aisle, people turn round to stare each time your squeaky shoe makes it up another step. You ask the three people in row 7 if you can squeeze past to one of the seats just beyond. You wait for the looks of anger on their faces but it doesn't happen. In fact they seem almost pleased about their improved safety in numbers. You arrive at the first empty seat and sit down. The nearest person to you leans over and whispers that you haven't missed much, just introductions. You immediately feel relieved. You smile and whisper "thanks" back to them.
You get your notebook and pen out and turn to face the [[lecturer]].<img src="images/passages/front_middle_back.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woolf Lecture Theatre">
You dash straight for the nearest empty seat at the front. You feel like all the eyes in the room are boring into the back of your head, as if you're solely responsible for disrupting the entire lecture. You daren't look about and just focus on getting your notebook and pen quietly out of your bag. For some reason this equates to you doing everything in slow motion.
You huddle down over your notebook and listen to the [[lecturer]].<img src="images/passages/lecturer.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woolf Lecture Theatre">
The Head of School, Professor Colin Lucas, informs you that this school has more students in it than your entire secondary school so chances are you're not going to be on first name terms with him (although he does clarify that staff are known by their first names to students). He describes the layout of the school, with its lecture theatre and seminar rooms as well as the academic and support staff areas.
He explains that this is a time for developing [[independent learning|independent]] and doing some [[critical thinking|critical]]. You consider whether any of your thinking so far has been critical. Probably not.
He also explains the [[differences between lectures, seminars and tutorials|differences]] which is helpful as you've had no experience of any of those, or have you? Although university is all about being an independent learner, you'll still have your attendance monitored as it has a direct correlation on your marks.
[[He then goes on to explain....]]
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/empty row_company.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
You sit down quickly next to the other student. She looks questioningly at you but doesn't appear angry, she even manages a weak smile. Whilst you rustle in your bag for your notebook and pen you ask her if you have got the right place for the school induction event (you know full well this is the right place, but it's a good ice breaker). She confirms that is the case and appears to be relaxed at the thought of being useful and resourceful.
You thank her, tell her the course you're on and the modules you've selected. It turns out she is doing a number of the same modules as you in your first year.
In no time at all the theatre has filled up. The lecturer is busy setting up the computer at the front and his microphone. His slides are projected onto 3 large screens at the front which say "Welcome to Kent" followed by his name, "Professor Colin Lucas (Head of School)". You whisper to your new friend that this feels really official and she whispers "no going back now".
You turn to the front and listen to the [[lecturer]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/empty row_company.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
You seat yourself right in the middle of the middle row. Good view from here. There is another student seated directly behind you but don't turn around. You open your notebook to the first pristine page. This first page will be the start of a new era so you remind yourself to make your work neat in case it gets used as a nostalgic reminder some time in the future.
Some students are in groups of two and chatting and some are alone staring at their 'phone screens. You've got another 11 minutes until the lecture starts. You turn around under the guise of just wanting to look around the room and catch the attention of the girl sat behind you. You smile weakly and say, "hi?". She responds similarly. You go back to doodling in your notebook. Students steadily drift in and soon new faces are sat either side of you.
The theatre has filled up. The lecturer is busy setting up the computer at the front and his microphone. His slides are projected onto 3 large screens at the front which say "Welcome to Kent" followed by his name, "Professor Colin Lucas (Head of School)". You arm yourself with your pen and listen intently as the [[lecturer]] starts to talk.<img src="images/passages/critical.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
Being a critical thinker doesn't mean you're good at arguing with yourself, although you might be! It just means that you don't take everything at face value. You want to look at all sides of the story, not just the main points of view. Are the sources reputable? Use your research, experience and ideas to challenge the arguments put forward. It's a skill that you may or may not have developed at secondary school but one which you will get very good at whilst at university.
Back to [[lecture|lecturer]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/differences.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woolf Lecture Theatre">
Lectures tend to occur in lecture theatres and can contain hundreds of people. Usually, a lecturer shares ideas with the audience. You will be expected to take lecture notes so that you can use them for related work in seminars or assignments. A really good method for taking concise notes is the Cornell notes method - it's worth a Google! At Kent, lectures are almost always recorded so you can play them back on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Kent Player">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ via @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ at any time.
Seminars are smaller classes, similar to classes in secondary school. They discuss topics usually related to a previous lecture (so read your notes!). You will probably need to do some additional research or reading ahead of the seminar to participate in discussions, ask questions and listen to others. This might feel a bit awkward to start with but it gets easier with experience. These discussions are really useful for highlighting, confirming and testing new ideas which you can then utilise in your assignments.
Tutorials are meetings with an academic tutor and a small number of students, or maybe a 1:1. Tutorials allow you to discuss a topic in detail, ask lots of questions and discuss how best to tackle aspects of assignments. They're really useful for gaining specific advice. You can ask to see your tutor or any lecturer in their drop-in hour for an ad-hoc tutorial. Academics are passionate about their subjects and will be pleased to see you to discuss their modules!
You may also have lab sessions (depending on your course), workshops and focus groups. They all offer slightly different things and will require different preparation and participation. You'll get the hang of it as you go along, so don't panic.
Back to [[lecture|lecturer]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/Academic Adviser.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Academic Adviser Poster">
Every undergraduate at Kent is assigned an @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. They are allocated to you because their area of specialism will match your degree topic. In many cases they will be your adviser for the entire duration of your course. This is great because you can build a real rapport with them. They will want to know about you, how you are getting on and will share opportunities and ideas with you. They will watch you develop, offering guidance and support. They won't summon you to see them regularly, it's up to you to make appointments with them, even if it is just to say 'hi' and to let them know everything is going well. If it's not, they can help.
Each @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ will have an office hour each week which is a period of time you can just knock on their door without an appointment. This can seem a bit overwhelming initially, but don't worry, @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ actually aren't scary. To prove it, do you want to play [['spot the Academic Adviser'|game]]?
And the final great reason for staying in touch with your Adviser is that they get to write your references when you leave university. So if you're planning further study or even contemplating getting a job at some point (really?), your Adviser will write the reference. Imagine how dull the reference would be if you never made the effort to go and see them regularly?
Back to the [[lecture|He then goes on to explain....]].
<<set $acaScore += 1>><img src="images/passages/independent.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Learning">
This is about you taking control of your work. Being an independent learner is ABSOLUTELY NOT doing everything on your own. You'll need to learn how to make best use of the staff and resources around you to get the best degree outcome. You need to find out how you best work, not how you were told to work at school. Unlike secondary school, you won't be told where and when to be every day or how to structure your time. To some, this is daunting, for others they assume they have free time when in fact it would be better used as research time. You need to think about the methods you will use to find out information and meet deadlines. Scary.
Making yourself a timetable is a good starting point, Professor Lucas continues. Put on the things you definitely must attend, not the clubs and optional events, factor in your reading/research and assignment time and remember to schedule some me-time each day. He promises that you'll get better at independent learning as you progress through your degree.
Back to [[lecture|lecturer]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/energised.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Really Energised Man">
YESSSS! This is going to be a real adventure. You are one clever cookie and you're keen to show it. Just stay realistic and remember to pace yourself. It's no good burning out early, you need to find your pace and work on your potential. Make sure you take part in all things both academic and non-academic for the best all-round experience.
Remember:
<i>"It's nice to be clever but it is also clever to be nice."</i>
You head out into the crowded [[foyer]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/slightly anxious.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Anxious Person">
This is going to be OK. Try not to think of the big picture right now and think of what you need to do this week or this term. You've just been told you have all the support you need around you so it is going to be OK. You've earned your place at university so you will be fine. Pace yourself, stay on top of the tasks in hand and ask questions when you feel stuck.
Remember:
<i>"He who asks a question is a fool for 5 minutes; he who does not ask a question is a fool forever."</i> I forgot to ask who actually said that.
You head out into the crowded [[foyer]].<img src="images/passages/overwhelmed.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Overwhelmed Man">
You are amongst people who want to help you through this journey. All you have to do is have the courage to ASK (they will not coming knocking on your door offering their help).
Remember:
<i>"It's not always about the end of the journey, it's about enjoying the journey in the end."</i>
Break down problems or concerns into smaller parts, draw up some lists to give you focus and chat to other students to find out what they are doing to cope with all this information. Many of them will be feeling the same and will welcome the chance to chat.
You take a deep breath and head out into the crowded [[foyer]].<img src="images/passages/foyer.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Caffe Nero">
You're standing in the foyer and the girl from the lecture theatre is now stood next to you. She asks whether you'd like to get a coffee somewhere. You don't have anything else on your timetable for the rest of the morning so you agree.
She recommends Caffe Nero, next to the Blackwells book shop, so you agree, walk out of the school building and make your way over to the cafe.
On your way there you pass a strange structure that looks like a giant [[washing line]] and a man with a [[bird of prey]] on his arm. This place is full of surprises.
You carry on towards the [[cafe]], keen to get some caffeine into your system after a tiring morning.<img src="images/passages/cafe.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Caffe Nero's">
You order a skinny mocha. That is brown frothy heaven in a cup!
You both sit in the soft tartan armchairs by the window. It dawns on you you haven't even introduced yourselves yet. You tell her your name and she replies that she is called Bob. It sounds strange but you feel too awkward to ask. Bob senses your curiosity and tells you a bit about how she came to be called 'Bob'. Her real name is 'Pomeline' as her mother is French and that's where the name originates. You momentarily ponder how Pomeline can be abbreviated to Bob. She laughs at the confused frown on your face. She explains that her brother is deaf and when family members used to call her 'Pom' for short, he had lip-read this to be 'Bob' and so the name stuck!
You catch yourself mouthing the words 'Pom' and 'Bob' to see if they feel any different and Bob giggles again at your fish impression.
You tell her about your flatmates' attempts at cooking and she tells you her house clubbed together and got a supermarket grocery delivery order on their first day, right to their kitchen. You had no idea you could do that on campus. Do you quickly [[scribble a note|scribble]] for yourself to to tell the others about it when you get back to your flat (think about all that entertainment money you could save yourselves) or just hope you'll [[remember]] about it in a few hours time?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/washing line.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Tensegritree Sculpture">
The Tensegritree scuplture sits between the Marlowe building and the Templeman library. It was commissioned to mark the university's 50th anniversary and 10 years since the founding of the Kent School of Architecture.
Standing at 7m high and 12m diameter, the structure comprises galvanised steel – for the compressive ‘strut’ elements – and stainless steel rods – for the tensile cable elements. It has absolutely nothing to do with laundry.
You quickly walk past, keen to get to the [[cafe]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/bird of prey.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Bird Man">
The University of Kent is situated near the Kent coast and as a result seagulls are frequent visitors. Yes, they look innocent but those dive-bombers are expert at pinching your mozarella baguette straight out of your hand, even when it is half in your mouth. Then they taunt you as they eat it on the grass and you're left with a rumbly tummy.
But here comes Freddie the Falcon. He majestically flies around the campus under the strict control of his handler scaring off all the seagulls who fly elsewhere for their cheeky snacks.
You could watch for hours but you need to get to the [[cafe]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/scribble.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Coffee and notepad">
That is an excellent idea. Keeping a notebook and pen with you all the time (or notes on your phone) will free up your memory for other stuff. You have a feeling you're going to get really good at note taking over the next 3 years.
You've written it down and you're already thinking about the possibility of cooking rotas to help share the workload, reduce food waste and securing a regular import of Nutella and Cheezy Dibbles.
Notebook away, back to the [[cafe chat]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/remember.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Ideas">
There's so much to remember in these first few weeks. You're sure one more thing won't hurt and even if you don't remember to tell them immediately, there are so many places to eat on campus plus the two Co-Op stores are fully stocked with scrumtious goodies.
Back to the [[cafe chat]].<img src="images/passages/cafe chat.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Caffe Nero's">
Bob tells you that this year your school had created a planner for first year students with loads of information in it about useful contacts, online resources, marking criteria and record keeping. You'll need to go back at some point and collect a copy.
Bob lives in one of the student houses in Parkwood, in a different zone from yours. One of her flat mates hasn't even turned up yet, something to do with visa complications. One of them sounds like he is a Jamie Oliver clone who spends all his time concocting amazing meals out of 3 ingredients (you can do it in two; Nutella and toast. Bam!) and the other is an introvert vampire called Reg who has not been spotted out of his room during daylight hours.
You describe Chimmy, Zak, Tiz and Saffa from your flat and that you could really have done with mini Jamie Oliver's culinary expertise last night as dinner scored an effort ranking of 'below adequate'.
You quickly check your timetables on your phones. Full lectures start on Monday. You agree to see each other then if not before. You drain the last frothy dregs from your cup and leave the cafe.
Do you head back to your school to pick up a [[planner]] or go [[back home]] to figure out what to have for lunch?<img src="images/passages/planner.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jo The Receptionist">
You walk back into the school. There are still quite a few people wandering around who must have been at the induction event as well. The reception desk is just around the corner.
The receptionist is called Jo. She's as bouncy looking as her curly hair and wearing what appears to be a running kit. She peeks at you between her vase of lilies and the half empty bowl of sweets. She doesn't say anything as she is clearly chewing something. You assume it is Jo that has consumed the other half of the sweets. You wonder if it would be rude to take one. She sees you eyeing up the treasure and holds the bowl up towards you, forcing you to pick one. You go for one with a green wrapper and then hope it is lime and not apple flavoured. You tell Jo you'd like to collect a planner. You pop the sweet in your [[mouth]] whilst Jo locates a planner for you.
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/hangover_back home.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Toast">
You're the first one back to the flat for lunch, or perhaps the others are having lunch somewhere on central campus? Maybe you should have done that too? No, your wallet can't sustain eating out every day and you've already treated yourself to a drink in the cafe today.
You look in the fridge. No-one has done much in the way of food shopping so far and all you can locate is a wrapped pasty (that you don't own), some dregs at the bottom of the milk carton, a tiny tub of margarine containing mostly toast crumbs and the majority of a loaf of bread. The contents of the cupboards don't yield good results either. A packet of dried spaghetti, a jar of cheap looking jam (you know it's cheap as it just has a white label on it saying 'JAM'), a pot of dried herbs and some sachets of salt and pepper that look suspiciously like they had accompanied a takeaway.
Do you grab the [[pasty]] and devour it quickly whilst in the kitchen before anyone else gets home, take a couple of slices of [[bread]] to make some toast, decide to try out cooking [[spaghetti with herbs]] sprinkled on the top or leave the kitchen and go back out to buy something at the [[Co-Op shop]]?<img src="images/passages/mouth.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Apples">
Nooooo. It's apple.
Your face contorts whilst you try to chew and swallow the sweet as soon as possible.
Jo eventually locates the box housing the planners and gives you a shiny copy. You quickly leaf through the book. There's a whole section about academic tips, support, module selection and timetables as well as a diary planner section at the back so you can properly plan your time. She also gives you a free pen and asks if you'd like to purchase a school branded hoodie. It is navy blue and has the Kent logo on the front and large letters spelling out the school's name on the back.
Do you [[buy one]] or say you'll [[think about it]]?<img src="images/passages/buy one_think about it.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="University of Kent Hoodie">
Bargain! And it also means you have something extra and clean to wear too. You're going to enjoy wearing that the next time you travel back home to see the family.
You thank Jo, take the planner and leave reception.
It's time to get some lunch so you start walking [[back home]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/buy one_think about it.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="University of Kent Hoodie">
Save those pennies, right? Or maybe you were just worried about being the only one wearing school branded merch?
Jo doesn't look too hurt by your reaction and she seems friendly enough to approach again if you change your mind. You leave reception clutching your planner and new pen.
It's time to get some lunch so you start walking [[back home]].<img src="images/passages/pasty.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Cornish Pasty">
Oh dear, that's someone's snack and they're not going to be happy when they find it is gone. You could be about to start a full house war before the end of the first week! You'd better get out to the shops to purchase a replacement pronto.
Before you can do anything you hear the [[front door open]] then close loudly.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/bread.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Toasted Bread">
It's not your bread but replacing a couple of slices will be easy enough to do and at least you've left plenty for when the owner gets back. One slice has Nutella on it and the other has the mystery jam. You had forgotten how good jam on toast tastes. Does that count as one of your five a day? It doesn't fill you up and you figure you could 'borrow' just one more slice.
Before you have the chance to reach for the loaf of bread again you hear the [[front door open]] then close loudly.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/spaghetti with herbs.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Spaghetti with herbs">
This won't win you any cooking awards and you're not sure it's even edible, but you feel proud at the effort you are putting in to cooking stolen food. Look, sprinkling dried herbs on top of stuff is a real skill isn't it? The resulting meal is a dot-to-dot of worms on a plate. You manage to eat at least half the plate of spaghetti and make note to add a sauce of some description next time.
As you are peeling the remaining partially dried, sticky spaghetti off the plate into the bin you hear the [[front door open]] then close loudly.<img src="images/passages/essentials shop.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Co-Op Shop">
This is the safest bet. You'd better start planning some menus right now. You reach the Parkwood Co-Op shop (which is closer than walking to central campus). The Kent Student Radio is playing surprisingly good tunes as you peruse the chilled food counter, eventually purchasing the reassuringly chubby pot of tuna pasta salad. You start eating it hungrily as you head back to the house.
You're standing in the kitchen and finishing off the dregs of the tuna, sloshing about in mayo at the bottom of the tub when you hear the [[front door open]] then close with a bang.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/first lectures.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Lecture Theatre">
You take a seat in the warm lecture theatre and plug your phone in on the bench.
Your first lecture is introduced by Dr Sheree Lax, a softly spoken lady with elegant hair swept up into a swirl on the top of her head. You're in quite a small lecture theatre and there are about 50 other students there, none of whom you recognise.
Sheree shares her research interests with you. From her constant smile, the way she gesticulates and how she walks purposefully at the front of theatre tells you she is passionate about her subject. She has dedicated her working life to knowing everything about the topic. The module you are about to embark on with her will be composed of a series of 10 lectures, each closely followed by a related seminar. She reminds you that you will be developing your own ideas, not just accepting the opinions of others. At the end of the module, you will (she definitely used the word 'will') submit some form of $assignmentType just before Christmas. But fear not, all of the learning that you will acquire throughout the lectures and seminars will fully cover details you will need to help you complete the work.
So all you have to do is attend all your lectures and seminars and you get told how to do everything? - [[Is that right]], [[or have you got the wrong end of the stick]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/reading list.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
You look at the reading list again. Core reading means you must read them, recommended means you should read them and background reading is for investigating further if you are interested. Alternatively you may find your own extended resources which you can add to your list too and demonstrates you are keen to seek alternative view points.
In addition to the main reading list there is suggested reading ahead of each lecture, which seems excessive! Then you realise that these sections are usually from the core books anyway so that's not extra and you immediately retract the 'excessive' accusation.
Still, that's a lot of reading and how are you going to fit it all in? You remember the induction lecture: draw up a timetable. Treat your week like a regular 9-6 job, use time productively during the day and factor in some relaxation time in evenings and weekends making sure deadlines are not left to the last minute.
Do you go to the library to get your [[core reading]] items out of the library or just stick to the reading suggested for each of the [[forthcoming lectures]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 5>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/delay.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Reading Lists">
Yeah, a couple of weeks won't hurt. How can you possibly know which is the best stuff to read until you've got some of the lectures and seminars out of the way first? You're here to make the most of university so don't want to waste time unecessarily.
You look at your timetable. There will soon be another lecture to go to and @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ tells you that you only need to read 4 pages of a book to prepare for that. Your reading list on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ has a link to the relevant book.
Click. Too much effort to go to the library and get the book out for the sake of 4 pages when you can simply [[download it]].<img src="images/passages/core reading.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
Fantastic idea. You decide to pace yourself and choose one core item from each of your current modules to start working through. You open up your calendar on your phone and schedule yourself an hour each day just dedicated to reading, whether that's in the evening or just those odd 'dead' hours in between lectures and seminars where it isn't worth walking back home.
You quickly check the chapter of reading you are expected to do ahead of the next set of lectures and make sure that the core book you choose contains this chapter. Do you collect a [[hard copy]] of each of the 4 books from Templeman library or do you [[download an e-copy]] instead?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/forthcoming lectures.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
Might be better to pace yourself with this reading as the module progresses so as not to panic in case you feel overwhelmed. Also the reading might be better explained as you progress through the lectures each week so no point in peaking too soon.
Best to stick to the general reading list for now to get a grounding in the topic area. You check each of the modules. Each one has a short piece of reading to complete before each lecture. The reading list connects to the library so with a few clicks you can see what is available. It turns out the books you need are [[available as e-book downloads|download an e-copy]] or you can go to the library to pick up the [[hard copies|hard copy]].
<img src="images/passages/confess.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Campus Plaza">
OK, ok, you've not been in any of the buildings because you don't have your KentOne card because you haven't actually registered yet. Nayan's mouth quietly forms an 'O' shape. You're just taking your time, you say. Nayan advises you to register asap as it unlocks all your online student details, plus you need to get your KentOne card to get access to certain buildings like the library.
You finish your flapjack, thank Nayan and wish him good luck. He's about to join an event in his school and you're starting to feel uneasy about the thought that you're missing out on stuff as well.
You leave Nero's and go to [[register]] at the sports centre as per the joining instructions.
<<set $wellScore += 1>><img src="images/passages/face.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Camera Lense">
Tricky this one. You ponder the greatness of this moment. This picture will haunt you on your KentOne card for the next few years.
[[Sensible]] yet studious and hyper-intelligent?
[[Smiley]], approachable, happy-go-lucky?
[[Shocked]], out of comfort zone, possibly with a 'Crimewatch' twist?<img src="images/passages/explore.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Campus Arial Shot">
Big. The campus is big. You're reminded of that time you moved from primary school to secondary. Your new school seemed so big and you thought you'd never remember where everything was. Déjà vu. Even down to the crisp new map in your hand, just like you had when you were 11. You tell yourself it's going to be fine. This will soon feel like home and this time you don't even need to suffer the indignation of wearing a blazer 4 sizes too big.
You check the map. You decide that you should visit your [[school]] first, as you'll be spending a lot of your time there in these next few years!
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/sensible.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sensible Man">
Your sinister face is of passport quality. You like the 'don't mess with me' attitude it exudes.
Send the photo to the registration desk so they can [[apply it to your KentOne card|register in the hall to the right]] while you wait.<img src="images/passages/smiley.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Smiley Face">
Yesss, this isn't a passport. Look normal!
Send the photo to the registration desk so they can [[apply it to your KentOne card|register in the hall to the right]] while you wait.<img src="images/passages/shocked.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Shocked Cat">
O.K. You look like you've just been caught on CCTV, but let's go with it.
Send the photo to the registration desk so they can [[apply it to your KentOne card|register in the hall to the right]] while you wait.<img src="images/passages/barchat.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Socialising at K-Bar">
The first drink slips down quickly. Zak buys the next couple of drinks. The conversation with other students feels a bit awkward at first.
Hi, what's your name, what course are you doing, where are you from, where are you living (I'm not stalking you, honest), bla bla bla. But you tell yourself you're all in the same boat and everyone you talk to appears relieved to have someone to chat with.
Zak goes to the bar to get another couple of drinks.
You buy another couple.
Do you [[agree to another round]] or call it a day and [[dawdle back to the house]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/morning.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Dorm">
You wake up in your room, sprawled across your bed. After a restless night, you're not particularly refreshed. It must be the strange surroundings. The bed was comfortable but it's still not like home.
You go [[to the kitchen|downstairs]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/game.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Row of doors">
You know you're supposed to go and see your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, but sometimes it is a challenge too far to have the courage to knock on the door. Who knows what might lie on the other side?
So here's a little game. Here are three doors. One of them contains an actual living and breathing @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ at Kent. Can you spot which one it is?
[[Door A|A]], [[Door B|B]] or [[Door C|C]]?
<<back "Go Back">><img src="images/passages/A-Game_dinosaur.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Dinosaur">
No. This is a dinosaur. If a dinosaur really was the other side of the door you need to call up the Natural History Museum, who will be delighted. Then run. Probably run first and call second.
<<back "Go Back">><img src="images/passages/B_Game_Laura.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Laura's Office">
Yes, this is Laura. Laura is an actual @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ at Kent. Laura is very normal and friendly, not at all scary. Laura enjoys seeing her advisees and is great at giving excellent advice. She also likes cacti and nail varnish.
<<back "Go Back">>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>><img src="images/passages/C_Game_shouty.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Shouty Person">
No. This is a shouty person who needs to breathe into a paper bag. This is a university, not the barracks!
<<back "Go Back">><img src="images/passages/Student Support.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Support Room">
Whether it is coping with anxiety, meeting deadlines, or even if you're not sure you've chosen the right course the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ team are there to help. They won't ask you to see them, you need to be independent and book the appointment first through your school. They will also be keeping a close eye on attendance and may send you reminders if your attendance starts to drop.
Everything you tell them is in confidence and they won't pry. They just want to help and have a wealth of experience and knowledge of all the other support resources available if you need them. Asking for help when you know you need it is part of being independent.
Back to [[the lecture|He then goes on to explain....]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/front door open.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tasty Food">
A few seconds later Tiz and Saffa walk in. Saffa's eyes are red and Tiz looks worried. Saffa runs off to her room. Tiz scours the kitchen cupboards in hunter-gatherer mode, ready to prepare a snack. She tells you that Saffa has had a tough morning and is feeling a bit overwhelmed and missing home. She's not even sure she's on the right course or even if she should be at university. You ask whether she has asked for help at her school. Tiz said they had found out details about their school @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ Office but Saffa refuses to go and speak to them and just wants to go home.
Tiz turns round and is holding a sachet of Mediterranean couscous and a tin of sardines. Where on earth did she magic those up from? Sardines, no thank you, but couscous? Yes please. You and Tiz agree to keep an eye on Saffa and try to cheer her up when possible. The kitchen soon smells of warm sardines and you pray this particular meal won't become a regular occurance.
You tell Tiz about your morning and suggest a supermarket delivery of food and perhaps agreeing a cooking rota? She thinks this is an excellent idea so you agree to discuss it with Chimmy and Zak when they get back.
You discuss what to do for the [[rest of the afternoon]]. <img src="images/passages/me-time.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Bedroom">
Your room is an oasis of peacefulness but it could do with being more homely. The posters that you brought from Kent Union poster fair earlier in the week are on the walls. Much better, and very nerdy.
You finish unpacking the rest of your suitcase that you've been living out of for the last few days. Everything looks really organised. There is even a spare drawer for snacks. It's quite big and you intend to fill it up with calorific loveliness the next time you go shopping.
A variety of stationary are lined up on the desk, some photo's of friends (one of your family) are on the pinboard and you finally sit down on the study chair to survey your work. This feels much more homely now. On the bed is your oldest, most treasured cuddly toy cat 'Boo' that you've had since the beginning of dawn. It is missing its an eye and the tail is barely hanging on. To most onlookers it might be tricky to even work out what animal it is, but to you it smells of home.
Do you open up your laptop and [[Skype home]] or lie on the bed with Boo for a quick [[40 winks]]?<img src="images/passages/welcome fair.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Union Welcome Fair">
You and Tiz stroll down to campus in the Autumn sunshine. The path winds between the striking orange and red trees. You feel thankful to be surrounded by such vistas each day.
The plaza and the Kent Union building are much busier than they were earlier in the week. You can hear muffled, thumping music playing and the air smells of a mixture of pizza and cookies. It's strangely alluring.
The plaza is littered with dozens of tables, each labelled with the society they are representing. There's over 200 different clubs and societies to choose between from music, theatre, gaming, multi-cultural and activity based groups. In the middle there is some sort of dancing group (which explains the music) and everyone appears to have matching tote bags. Most of the students appear to have white lolly sticks poking out of their mouths too.
[[You dawdle round the tables with Tiz]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/sit outside saffas room.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Saffa's Door">
You lurk outside Saffa's room and knock gently on the door. You ask if she'd like to come to the kitchen and share a brew. She replies that she doesn't want a cup of tea. You ask her to just come and sit in the kitchen then. She doesn't want to do that either. You sigh, then tell her she would feel better if she didn't stay in her room too much.
You go off to the kitchen to make a drink. You periodically keep coming back to Saffa's door to let her know you're there. On the fourth visit she relents and [[opens the door]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/skype home.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Skyping Home">
Your family can't wait to hear of your activities to date. You give them a quick tour of your room and they tell you how amazingly tidy it looks (you're glad you made the effort now) and that Boo looks at home on your bed. They've missed you but they're really proud that you've managed to settle in and find your way around.
You describe your flat mates and you discuss Saffa's homesickness. You suddenly feel a bit homesick yourself, talking to your family. Your Mum tells you everyone will be feeling it, probably even if they say they're not. The trick is to get out there and mingle (you wonder whether you should have gone to the Welcome Fair now). Oh, and do lots of smiling too, because it is scientifically proven to make you more optimistic, even if you don't feel it and it makes the people around you feel better too. Your Mum tells you to be a good friend to Saffa and talk to her as much as possible.
The call ends with fake smiles and promises to talk again in a couple of days. You close your lap top and feel a bit down. Is this how Saffa feels?
Do you go and try to [[talk to Saffa|sit outside Saffa's room]] or keep yourself occupied with [[the latest posts on insta]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/40 winks.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sleeping in bed">
You fall asleep almost instantly but are awoken some time later at the sound of the front door being closed noisily. Feeling fuzzy and disorientated, you leave your room to [[investigate]].<img src="images/passages/the latest photos on insta.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Rabbit in front of Kent Sign">
You catch up on all the posts that your old school friends have made. They look like they're having an amazing time at their new universities. Are you having as good a time as them, you wonder? You silently tell yourself off and remember they're hardly going to share anything but the best updates and pics, are they? It's interesting seeing other places though and you realise how lucky you are to be on a parkland campus with the views over the city and the space to stretch out. It looks like other universities are right in the centre of big cities, busy and noisy. You'll stick with the rabbits and greenery, thank you very much.
The front door bangs shut and there are voices in the kitchen. You go and [[investigate]].<img src="images/passages/opens the door.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Teddy Bear">
What a tip! No wonder she feels rubbish! She tells you she is 'sorting stuff out' which is 'easier if it is all on the floor'.
She agrees to leave the bomb site and sit in the kitchen whilst you make her a cup of tea. You waft the second hand tea bag (starting off frugal) in a mug of hot water and add the milk. She gratefully accepts the beige brew and starts to confess how she's feeling. You discuss the difference between impostor syndrome, homesickness and wrong course choices and how they are all easily confused with each other. You confide that you're missing home too, so she's not alone. Saffa agrees to email her school to see if her @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ can help her.
After an hour or so you end up laughing over the silly things you've brought from home. You show her the one-eyed cuddly toy cat called Boo, whose tail is only just hanging on. You also brought a years supply of toiletries whereas what you really wished you had brought was more food. Saffa confesses she has also bought her childhood toy with her, a small tiger called RahRah. You both erupt with laughter at the apparent idiocy of bringing toys to university!
You are still busy chatting when [[Chimmy walks into the kitchen|investigate]].<img src="images/passages/investigate_pizza_must crop heads.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students in the Kitchen">
Zak, Chimmy and Saffa are in the kitchen. Saffa looks quite cheerful and is watching Zak eat a punnet of baby plum tomatoes (he explains they are his five-a-day in one hit). Tiz soon arrives having just got back from the Welcome Fair and is buzzing about all the societies that were there and was excited about having just joined the women's lacrosse club and Kent Sing (along with her subject society, Linguistics, too). It transpires that Tiz has an incredible singing voice, having been in several choir productions back in her home town.
The discussion soon turns to [[food]] and how best to go about catering for everyone in the most efficient way.<img src="images/passages/you dawdle round the tables with Tiz_subject only.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Societies">
You find your subject table and sign-up for free. The society is run by students who are doing the same course as you, but in their second and third study years so they're on hand to provide any guidance that you might need. You also learn they organise social events, quiz nights, trips and visiting speakers that all relate in some way to your course. Easy peasy. You sign up to their mailing list, make a note of their Facebook page and already feel excited about receiving your first event invite.
After more wandering you and Tiz decide to [[leave the Welcome Fair|out]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/food.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tesco Website">
Everyone agrees the easiest and cheapest way of buying food is to do an online food order. The Tesco delivery van has been spotted driving round Parkwood at least 4 times already so this must be a popular option. Each person promises to cook a meal for the rest of the flat, just once then order enough individual snacks for the rest of the week before deciding whether to continue with the cooking rota. No one admits to having great culinary skills but you each know how to create at least 1 meal. You just hope you don't all have the same 1 meal in mind.
Do you show off and suggest a [[roast dinner]] with all the trimmings?
How about a [[homemade curry]]? Or do you play it safe with [[pizza and chips]]?<img src="images/passages/roast dinner.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Roast Chicken">
Ambitious. But don't confuse it with Christmas.
You order a small chicken, some Quorn for Saffa, some spuds, a bag of carrots, a tin of peas and some gravy granules. How hard can it be?
You also order some cereals (sugary ones, because Mum's not watching) and some packets of 3 minute noodles, a multitude of crisps and biscuits, some more Nutella and some bread to keep you going. Oh, and a token bag of apples and a parsnip, to be healthy.
Chimmy places the order online and you look forward to the bounty arriving [[tomorrow]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/homemade curry.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Curry">
Good effort. You order a bag of rice, some chicken pieces, some Quorn for Saffa, a jar of balti curry mix and, voilà, one homemade curry!
You also order some cereals (sugary ones because Mum's not watching) and some packets of 3 minute noodles, a multitude of crisps and biscuits, some more Nutella and some bread to keep you going. Oh, and a token bag of apples and a parsnip to be healthy.
Chimmy places the order online and you look forward to the bounty arriving [[tomorrow]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/pizza and chips.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Chips on a pizza">
You've aced this one with minimum effort. You order 2 big pizzas (one vegetarian) and a bag of frozen chips, perhaps you could combine them to make a chip pizza? Done and done.
You also order some cereals (sugary ones because Mum's not watching) and some packets of 3 minute noodles, a multitude of crisps and biscuits, some more Nutella and some bread to keep you going. Oh, and a token bag of apples and a parsnip to be healthy.
Chimmy places the order online and you look forward to the bounty arriving [[tomorrow]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/tomorrow.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Square">
The food has arrived, the fridge is lovingly loaded with mouthwatering goodies. And vegetables. The snack cupboard is heaving with brown and beige convenience food. Being independent hasn't been such a struggle so far. Saffa is cooking tonight, ahead of the Freshers Ball. You're looking forward to trying vegetarian spaghetti carbonara.
In the meantime, you fancy exploring a bit beyond campus so you ask if anyone would like to join you on an excursion to Canterbury City Centre. Chimmy doesn't like shopping but asks you to pick up a bath towel for him as he only brought one with him and now realises he needs at least 2. Zak says he'd like to come along, as does Tiz, who wants new clothes for the ball. You persuade Saffa to leave her room and tag along too.
There are shuttle buses into Canterbury every 20 minutes from several stops around the university, including right up to Parkwood. Alternatively you can walk into town via the footpaths in about 20 minutes too. [[Bus]] or [[walk]]?<img src="images/passages/bus.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="University Buses">
The Uni-buses run really regularly around the university so it isn't difficult to catch a ride. Students get discounts too. You all pile on the bus and enjoy a scenic ride to Canterbury bus station, which is only a 15 minute journey. The bus station is right at the top of the [[High Street]]. You feel strangely naughty for having 'escaped campus' for a few hours.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/walk.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Punting on the River Stour">
There are designated footpaths all the way into town, with breathtaking views of the city as you walk down the hill. It's not long before you pass under the medieval Westgate Towers and arrive on the [[High Street]]. You feel strangely naughty for having 'escaped campus' for a few hours.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/High Street.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury High Street">
The city is vibrant and busy. There's a huge range of resturants, clothes shops (recognisable brands as well as independent shops), and quirky places selling soaps, art supplies and old style records. You pass Canterbury Cathedral which is crawling with tourists. You take a photo on your phone plus more of various intriguing streets and the ducking stool over the river to post on insta later.
You purchase a bright green fluffy towel covered with images of pink flipflops for Chimmy even though he had specifically instructed you to get plain blue. You spot a supermarket and go in for a bottle of wine and a cinnamon whirl pastry. Winning combination! You meet up with the others at Costa and enjoy a well earned espresso before heading [[back to campus]].<img src="images/passages/back to campus.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Campus">
That was tiring but at least you know you can buy everything you need in the City Centre plus have the odd night out there too.
Chimmy is less than delighted with his flip flop themed towel and promises to prank you back at some point!
Tiz, Chimmy and Zak are getting ready for the Freshers Ball this evening. Are you [[going to join them|Freshers Ball]] or [[stay at home]] and give your aching feet a rest??<img src="images/passages/freshers ball.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Freshers Ball">
You can still taste the carbonara as you jig your way through the crowd at the Freshers Ball. The Venue is packed and the Union has secured an amazing DJ. You don't feel too over or under dressed. Everyone seems to have someone to be with, even if they arrived solo.
The music lasts all evening and yet the energy of the crowd doesn't diminish. You lose sight of your flatmates in the throng but you spot Bob. She introduces you to a few other familiar faces from your school. They tell you their names but they are instantly lost in the sea of music and your carefree attitude.
At stupid o'clock the DJ's end the show and the Venue empties into the plaza. Almost all party-goers stroll in unison back to Parkwood, trying to sober up by drinking in the crisp night air. There may have been some wobbles this week, feeling lost (physically and emotionally) and worrying a lot about stuff that's out of your control, but guess what...[[CONGRATULATIONS]]!
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/stay at home.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Netflix">
You're not sure you could manage a late night squished between crowds of people listening to banging music after such a hectic week. Saffa is in agreement so, after eating Saffa's delicious carbonara, the rest of the house head off to the Freshers Ball leaving you and Saffa behind. You offer to share your bottle of wine and Saffa starts up Netflix on her laptop.
You have a great evening binge watching The Bodyguard (again) and drinking wine. Saffa tells you she has made an appointment to see her @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ officer next week and already the anxiety of being away from home has started to ease as she knows she can talk through her concerns with a support officer next week.
As the evening ends you realise you've just finished your first week at Kent....[[CONGRATULATIONS]]!!<img class="passagebadge" src="images/quest1badge.png" height=30% width=30%>
You have completed the first quest and made it through Welcome Week!
You have earned yourself a shiny 'Welcome Week' badge. You may not have taken advantage of all the opportunities on offer or you may have thrown yourself into everything. Either way, you made it through, you have a new network of supportive friends and you are ready for quest number 2: [[The First Assignment]].
<<set $quest1Badge = true>>
<<script>>
GA.sendEvent("Quest Completion", "Player Progression", "Quest 1");
<</script>><img src="images/passages/the first assignment.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Productive Desk">
This is the start of Quest 2: The First Assignment.
The aim of this quest is to submit your first piece of work on-line and on time ready to receive your first grading. To do this you will need to log on to @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ and look at all your modules.
You scroll through each module in turn on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. You have chosen 4 modules each worth 30 credits, rather than having more but smaller 15 credit options. Each module has at least one assignment of some description due in before the end of term, just before the Christmas vacation. Helpfully, there is also a break down of each of the lecture and seminar topics per module and even the names of the lecturers who will be teaching them. Most importantly, each module has a set reading list and some have a further resource list full of extra useful pieces of information.
Wow, it's a lot to take in but, after surviving Welcome Week you're feeling nervously invincible and ready take the assignment quest on.
You're up early. It may be eagerness, nerves or empty stomach. After a quick re-fuel, your cornflake-powered brain is ready for action. Timetable check. The first lecture is today and the location is already familiar. [[You are caught in the tide of students making their way to campus for their classes|first lectures]].
<<if previous() is "Campus Choice" and visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 35>>
<<set $wellScore += 15>>
<</if>>
<<script>>
if(State.getVar('$skipped') == true)
{
GA.sendEvent("Skipped Quest", "Player Progression", "Skipped to Quest 2");
}
<</script>>
<<set $skipped = false>><img src="images/passages/school common room.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kennedy Common Room">
The school common room is for undergraduates only. It has big soft arm chairs and L-shaped sofas as well as a vending machine full of mouth-watering snacks and a huge noticeboard covered in eye catching posters and leaflets luring the reader to forthcoming events.
You sink into an arm chair and look at your phone. The module you've just attended is listed on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. You can already see a link to the lecture recording which can be accessed via @@.serviceLink;<<link "Kent Player">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, an on-line lecture capture system. That's handy.
There's a reading list for the module too. It's really long and you're not a fast reader, in fact you're still working your way through your 'Biff and Chip' back catalogue. You remember that you were told you don't have to read everything, it just gives you some flexibilty. On closer inspection only 3 books are 'core' books which you MUST read and the remainder are optional. You click on the first core book in the list and worry that it has already been checked out of the library. The reading list links directly to the library, tells you that 3 copies are still available but, even better, you can download the online version.
Should you be super-keen and start working your way through the [[reading list]] or [[leave it for a few weeks|delay]] to see how the topic develops during future lectures and seminars?<img src="images/passages/hard copy.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="KentOne Card">
You arrive in Templeman Library. Your KentOne ID card is nowhere in sight. You empty your bag in the entrance area, shaking your notebooks. It's nowhere. Do you do the [[walk of shame back out of the library]] or [[ask the help desk staff]] whether you can still gain access to the library?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/download an e-copy.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent LibrarySearch Website">
That's a good idea and less to carry. Just a few clicks secures a copy of each of the texts you need. Perhaps you'll never need to go to the library again?
You have a while until your next lecture so you go back to your [[school common room again]] to make a start on the e-reading.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/machines to automatically check your books out.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Book Machine">
You place your books in what looks like the mouth of a strange cash machine. It automatically reads all of the bar codes and assigns them to your account via your KentOne card. You have them all to yourself for 7 days. Unless someone else wants them, they will get renewed for another 7 days after that and so on. Bonus!
You put the books into your bag. They feel reassuringly heavy although it would probably have been better to collect them later in the day just before you head home. Too late now. You have a couple of hours to kill before your next lecture. Do you find a cosy spot in the library and [[read the 4 pages of text required to understand your next lecture]], head back to your [[school common room again]] to see if anyone is hanging about there or, with thoughts of the cheesy pizza leaflet still fresh in your mind, go on a [[food hunt]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/the service desk.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Book Machine">
The library member of staff looks REALLY young, perhaps they are a student as well? The books awkwardly fall from your arms onto the desk and it is so apparent this is the first time you've used the library that you turn a shade of beetroot. He smiles and asks whether you found it easy to locate what you wanted (you wanted a cheesy pizza, but only found a lousy picture of it, so no). Yes, it was really straightforward, you confirm. He advises using the automatic check out machines if the service desks are ever unavailable. You go even redder now that he thinks you're too frightened to use the machines. He picks up one of the heavy books and reminds you about the information available in electronic format. As he scans the last book he outlines the importance of the Library Liaison Officer support and tells you to keep your eyes peeled for the various promotions that will be put on for students this term. You nod but it isn't sinking in. Eyes are open but no-one is at home. Information overload. He senses this and hands you a leaflet. Just visit the web address and it is all there, he says.
The 4 books are now assigned to you on your KentOne card. You'll get emailed when they are due back but they will be renewed every 7 days unless someone has reserved one of them.
You put the books into your bag. They feel reassuringly heavy although you wonder whether it might have been better to collect them later, just before you head home. Too late now! You have a couple of hours to kill before your next lecture. Do you find a cosy spot in the library and [[read the 4 pages of text required to understand your next lecture]], head back to your [[school common room again]] to see if anyone is hanging about there or, with thoughts of the cheesy pizza leaflet still fresh in your mind, go on a [[food hunt]]?<img src="images/passages/read the 4 pages of text required to understand your next lecture.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Study Space">
Near the cafe, in the centre of the library, there are a number of space-age looking seating pods. You go to the nearest empty one and settle in there. The study area is teeming with students. Some are working on their laptops on the central tables, others are clearly just in there for refreshment purposes and many are just sitting and reading quietly.
It doesn't take long to finish the 4 pages needed ahead of your next lecture but the book is strangely engrossing and, before you know it, you've read to the end of the chapter. If one book has this effect on you, imagine how much stuff you're going to learn in the whole module! Feeling self-congratulatory for being ahead and well prepared for the next lecture, it is time for some well-earned lunch.
Hmmm, [[library cafe sandwich]] or something a little [[more substantial]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/school common room again.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="School Common Room">
To your surprise you see Chimmy in there. He's navigating the many links on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ working out where he needs to be. You show him how to access his reading lists and download library books rather than going to get them physically from the library. With lecture capture too, you could theoretically do your entire degree from your bed (minus the seminars of course)!
Do you tell Chimmy you need to [[get on with your reading]] or decide to go on a [[lunch hunt]] together?<img src="images/passages/food hunt.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Campus Path to Rutherford College">
As you walk down the steps of the library terrace your name gets called out. Chimmy is waving at you and making his way over. He is also in between lectures and is in urgent need of sustenance. Apparently, someone in his last lecture told him [[Rutherford dining hall]] is the place to go for a plate full of comfort food without blowing the budget.
It's only a short hop across the central green to Rutherford college.<img src="images/passages/library cafe sandwich.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Library Cafe">
That was easy! Cheese and tomato sandwich with a token frilly layer of lettuce (not up to cheesy pizza standards, but quicker and cheaper) and a huge cup of hot tea. The tea waits patiently on the pristine white table as you greedily devour the doorstop sandwich.
A group of 4 male students are sat nearby, each with a drink in front of them. One of them is wearing a white 'latte moustache' edged in dark brown chocolate powder whilst the others openly snigger at his poor drinking ettiquette. You can hear them debating about mercury and whether the planet was named after, and indeed contained, the element or not and whether Freddie was born there. You hope that will be a short debate.
On another table, 2 female students are discussing whether they'd rather be a shark or a lion. They agree on the shark because neither of them like the idea of being pestered by flies plus sharks don't get sweaty!
With the last morsels of cheese and tomato consumed, the eaves dropping draws to a close. You make a quick visit to the library toilets before heading back to your school with your heavy bag on your shoulders, feeling every inch the proper student, ready for your [[next lecture]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/more substantial.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Gulbenkian Cafe">
Instinctively, you stroll over the the Gulbenkian cafe, the lunch time honey pot. Lines of students and staff are making the same pilgrimage. The menu whispers in your ear. It's a hot chicken and mozarella panini that you yearn. Ooh, melted cheese! You need that absolutely right now. Plus a bottle of sweet Kentish apple juice.
Avoiding the busy white tables, you elect to sit on one of the shocking pink sofas instead. Three people sit opposite you, all wearing their 'Kent Staff' lanyards and carrying their own coffee cups. They chat away about web page hits, stationery orders and how is it that the department gets through so many pencils?
The panini slips down noisily, but not without a fight. Metres of stringy cheese bridge the gap between your mouth and bread, threatening to stick to your chin without urgent intervention. Sophisticated dining, it is not.
The last of the cheese wisps are consumed just in time for making your way to your [[next lecture]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/next lecture.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Lecture Theatre">
This lecture theatre is bigger than the last one. Rows of colourful seats stretch upwards, each with its own shiny bench table, punctuated with regular charging points along its length. It's funny how virtually no one ever sits in the very front row.
You sit in an empty middle row. Within the next few minutes the theatre is virtually full and filled with conversation and shuffling of bags and books. To your left there is an empty seat and then beyond that sits a female student with amazingly wild purple hair. She scrolls through her phone. To your right a short male student in an unseasonably thick padded green jacket sits down. He introduces himself as Gabriel. Gabriel is in a chatty mood and virtually tells you his life story within 20 seconds. From a small village just outside Exeter (which has really bad broadband), he came to Kent because he was won over on the open day with all the facilities, diverse culture and green space, he likes paintballing (when he wins) and is mad about Tottenham Hotspur football team (which explains his shirt). You fill him in on some of your basic points of interest; you're a chocolate spread connoiseur (and can spot a fake Nutella at 20 paces) and agree with him about the positive aspects of the university that he has identified to date.
A tall lecturer strides purposefully over to the lecturn area at the front, fiddles about with a memory stick then displays an introductory page up on the front projector screens. She introduces herself as Dr Hedda D'Klass. She's dressed in blue jeans, a mustard coloured shirt and matching coloured shoes! She gains instant attention just by looking up at the group over the rims of her round red glasses. The theatre stops and [[waits for her words]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/do you lie.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Grimond Building">
Yes, you've been really busy too. That's why you needed to take a break, you explain, waving towards your empty coffee cup and mostly eaten flapjack. Nayan asks where your school is. You can tell he is hoping it is the same as yours. You quickly check the map and say "Grimond", it's right next to the library, looks important. Nayan's head tilts to one side and his mouth is down turned. Grimond, he tells you, is just a building of lecture theatres and seminar rooms. It isn't a school building at all. Arrggh, busted on question one! You finally [[come clean|confess]] and confirm that you haven't actually done anything apart from wave your parents off yet. <img src="images/passages/waits for her words.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Lecture Theatre">
Hedda hopes everyone has read the notes required for the lecture as she will be referring to them throughout. She talks for nearly an hour in an engaging manner, shows lots of pictures on the screen, flings her arms about energetically to emphasise her point and prowls back and forth across the front of the theatre as she does so. It looks like she's doing front crawl but without water.
Given that she starts off the lecture with a hypothesis, you wonder when she'll actually get around to concluding her investigation. She doesn't. The hour is up and you're no further forwards. You look confusingly at Gabriel. He rolls his eyes and mutters 'independent learner flim-flam'. Flim-flam? Must be a west country term. More confused.
Gabriel wants to know if you want to [[grab a drink]] or just [[see you at the seminar]] tomorrow?
<img src="images/passages/grab a drink.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="K-Bar Pool Table">
You both walk over to K-Bar in Keynes. You order a bad-ass fruit tea whilst Gabriel goes for a pint of lager. It's not even midday! You can't refuse his cocky challenge to a game of pool. You've played a few times before so can hold your own. Turns out Gabriel has invested heavily in pool practice and he is making cat food out of you. The first game ends in humiliating defeat and you want to turn into a potato and roll into the sunset.
'Bing', email. You've just been invited to your first @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ meeting tomorrow. Its importance of these meetings has been constantly advertised. You immediately add the appointment to your phone calendar, put your phone back in your pocket then challenge Gabriel to a re-match. He can't resist.
The table must be on the wonk. You've never missed shots so consistently before. By the end of the afternoon you've won at least 2 games to Gabriel's gazillion. You inform Gabriel that you'll see him at the next lecture then [[amble back to your room|R&R time2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/see you at the seminar.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Lecture Theatre">
You decline the drink offer saying that you've got another appointment, hoping that he can't spot the white lie. You don't have any other timetabled event until tomorrow.
Do you go back home to your room and do some [[more reading]] for the other forthcoming lectures and seminars, go [[back to the library]] to investigate the other resources on offer or head to the [[undergraduate common room]] to mingle with someone other than Gabriel?<img src="images/passages/more reading.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Rabbits">
You amble back to your flat along the woodland path. You spot 3 rabbits on your way home, shame it is not the first of the month. You smile at the little superstitions your mum taught you. You wonder if they still miss you as much as you miss them.
Back in your room you draw up a timetable and colour code each entry depending on whether it is a lecture, seminar, reading, $assignmentType or relaxation time. Everything looks so organised and achieveable. The stress levels instantly reduce. You pin the timetable right in the middle of your pin board then add a to-do list next to it and add in your 4 assignments with their due dates. A quick check of @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ shows the reading required for the next couple of lectures. The house is thankfully quiet.
You have just stretched out on your bed next to your toy cat Boo, about to begin your afternoon of reading when, bing! Email. You've just been invited to your first @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ meeting tomorrow. Its importance has been constantly advertised. You know you have to go. You add the appointment to your phone calendar.
After almost two hours of reading, peppered with moments of unplanned shut-eye, you hear Tiz come home. You know its her as she is singing a Katy Perry song. Again. She can't quite hit the top notes of 'Firework' but the rest isn't bad. You meet her [[in the kitchen]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/back to the library.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Aisle">
The library is already starting to feel quite homely and you already know which location relates to your studies. However there's one book you think would be a good read from your list so you check on LibrarySearch in the lobby first. It's in and the system even identifies which shelf it can be found on. You proficiently locate the shelf. There it is. Crikey, it's the size of a supermarket trolley!
You heave the tome over to a study table and plop the book down with a loud exhale. 'Bing', email. You've just been invited to your first @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ meeting tomorrow. Its importance has been constantly advertised. You immediately add the appointment to your phone calendar.
The reading list only mentions use of a handful of pages. There's no way this book is coming home with you. Next to the desk is a poster advertising all the scanning and printing facilities in the library. Who's feeling on-the-spot-clever now? You hold the book like a kettle ball and waddle over to [[one of the scanners]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/undergraduate common room.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Vending Machine">
You arrive at the common room just as your phone goes 'bing'. Email. You've just been invited to your first @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ meeting tomorrow. It's been constantly advertised how important this is. You immediately add the appointment to your phone calendar then forget about it.
Bob is sat at one of the tables chatting to another student. Given the evidence of bright wrappers cover the desk, you surmise they have bought the contents of the vending machine . She spots you and waves you over to join them. You recognise the other student, Marie, from the seminar. Marie, who looks like a fairly logical sort of person (evidenced by nerdy glasses), agrees that Hedda didn't actually answer any of her questions in her lecture and that makes you feel like idiots as you didn't know the answers either. Bob suggests that perhaps you're supposed to do some reading to formulate your own opinions. So. Much. Effort. You debate the topic between you instead, coming up with some cracking ideas and some which are more insane than others. The Kit-Kats and Haribo's are consumed at a deadly pace. Marie has eaten at least a tenner's worth and says it saves her finding lunch.
With a head full of ideas and red herrings you go back to your room via the Co-Op shop to get yourself something unprocessed for lunch to [[cancel out all those Haribo's|R&R time2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/in the kitchen_walk back to your flat.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Red Peppers">
She tells you about her first lecture. She hasn't done any reading yet, or in fact looked at her reading lists. Saffa is apparently booked in to see her @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ Officer this afternoon so hopefully she will feel better for that.
It's Tiz's turn to cook this evening and she's making an early start on the shepherd's pie that her dad showed her how to make. It seems to contain around 83 ingredients and looks far too ambitious. You say nothing.
Zak is the next back home. He's had 3 lectures today but says they were mostly covering stuff that he had done at A-Level so it wasn't too taxing. He's got a thick Javascript library book tucked under his arm so he's clearly looked at his reading lists. Zak makes himself a mug of tea and you both watch Tiz slice carrots. Not so much 'slice' as 'chunk' into irregular sized wedges. Then you spot the Tabasco sauce Tiz has waiting next to her and [[a plan is born]].
<img src="images/passages/comes home.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mental Health">
She has just had a very long appointment with her school @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ Officer. It turns out Saffa had terrible anxiety going through secondary school and even got her GP involved.@@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ told her that because of this, she could get an ILP drawn up, which is an Inclusive Learning Plan. They have arranged an appointment with a specialist in the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support and Wellbeing Centre">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>> to discuss and create her ILP. This will make learning and submitting work or doing presentations and exams much less of a burden. Not only that but she has an appointment each week with her @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ Officer who is going to check that Saffa is adjusting well and gets any further support she may need.
You feel sorry for Saffa, she seems to have a lot on her plate at the moment so thinking about assignment deadlines is probably the least of her concerns right now. Well timed, as always, Tiz informs everyone that [[dinner is ready]].
<img src="images/passages/R&R_time.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Coffee">
The next morning your head feels like someone has tried to poke too much shredder paper in through your ears. It could be that you're still getting used to your bed or that you've just had to absorb so much information over the last week that your brain is going on strike.
You know you've got your scheduled @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ appointment in just over an hour. Do you get up, get organised and [[head off to the meeting]] or decide to [[sit this one out]] and wait until you're feeling a bit more human again?
<img src="images/passages/next to Bob.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Lecture">
Bob looks pleased to see you. Safety in numbers, she says and you agree. About 30 people are now in the room. Before too long a short man dressed in what could be mistaken for army fatigues and a long trench coat walks in. His coat is almost dragging on the floor and it accentuates his lack of height. He takes his coat off and the room quietens. He looks at you through his Harry Potter glasses. The side pockets of his combat trousers are bulging so much it looks like he is wearing jodhpurs. What does he store in there? You and Bob guess what might be in them. Pot Noodle, spare trench coat, dead goat?
Professor Mark Partridge introduces himself. He is the Academic Adviser for each and every one of you and will be for the entire duration of your degree. He explains that he's there to help you whenever you need academic advice. Makes sense so far. He can demystify lectures and assignment tasks, help you understand feedback and signpost you to a whole host of additional resources. He does not however want to hear about your in-grown toenails (that's one for your GP), or your deceased goldfish (@@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@) or your library fines (the library, obvs). He says you ought to see him at least once per term, either book an appointment or turn up during his drop-in hour. You can email any time too. Apart from this meeting, he won't ask to see you. If you don't make the time to see him, you lose out on his involvement, simple as.
What if you forget to go and see him? Do you [[set yourself a reminder on your phone straight away|reminder2]] to go and see him in a couple of weeks, even though you have nothing to discuss with him at the moment or do you [[leave it and go and see him when you have a genuine need|genuine need2]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/next to Gabriel.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Lecture">
Gabriel looks pleased to see you. He has a can of energy drink in front of him and has just finished eating a Mars bar. Interesting breakfast.
About 30 people are now in the room. Before too long a short man dressed in what could be mistaken for army fatigues and a long trench coat walks in. His coat is almost dragging on the floor and it accentuates his lack of height. As he removes his coat the room quietens. He looks at you through his Harry Potter glasses. The side pockets of his combat trousers are bulging so much it looks like he is wearing jodhpurs. What does he store in there? You and Gabriel guess what might be in them. Pot Noodle, a canoe, his children?
Professor Mark Partridge introduces himself. He is the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ for each and every one of you and will be for the entire duration of your degree. He explains that he's there to help you whenever you need academic advice. Makes sense so far. He can de-mystify lectures and assignment tasks, help you understand feedback and signpost you to a whole host of additional resources. He does not however, want to hear about your in-grown toenails (that's one for your GP), or your deceased goldfish (@@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@) or your library fines (the library, obviously). He says you ought to see him at least once per term, either book an appointment or turn up during his drop-in hour. You can email any time too. Apart from this meeting, he won't ask to see you. If you don't make the time to see him, you lose out on his involvement, simple as.
What if you forget to go and see him? Do you [[set yourself a reminder on your phone straight away]] to go and see him in a couple of weeks, even though you have nothing to discuss with him at the moment or do you [[leave it and go and see him when you have a genuine need]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>>
<img src="images/passages/SLAS_SLAS Gabriel.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="SLAS Website">
@@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ stands for '@@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Learning Advisory Service">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@'. It's bascally a one-stop shop for picking up stacks of tips and tricks to boost your learning and achievement. And they're free. You can have 1:1 sessions with an advisor to go through something specifically like fine-tuning your study skills or attend workshops such as essay writing, exam revision techniques and extra maths tuition. Did we mention, these services are free? It seems like a no-brainer so you promise yourself that you'll book yourself on a workshop (for zero cost) when the need arises.
[[Go back|reminder2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/Academic Peer Mentors_Mentors Gabriel.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Group of students studying">
This is like a buddying scheme where more experienced students are paired with newer students within their schools. You get direct access to someone who has walked the path you're currently walking. Contact them to discuss module details with them, find out about how they settled into university life and pick their brains about learning techniques and support resources available. It's totally voluntary. If you want to be paired with an APM you need to speak to your school about it and they will sort it all out for you.
You momentarily weigh up the benefits of having someone like that at the end of an email when you're pulling your hair out over a particular $assignmentType.
[[Go back|reminder2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/go to the library and do your background reading.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Study Area">
Making good use of those spare hours here and there, they really add up!
From the comfort of one of the study pods, it doesn't take long to refresh your mind about the finer points of interest required for the imminent seminar. You thank yourself for taking such good notes in the lecture earlier. You're feeling crazy clever by the time you [[go to your seminar room]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/paired with an academic peer mentor.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jo The Receptionist">
You go to your school's reception. Jo, the receptionist, is tending to the vase of pungent lillies sat on her desk and is chewing some of the contents of the bowl of sweets intended for guests. Without prompting, she offers you one of the sweets but they're mostly green ones and you don't like those so you decline.
You ask about the Academic Peer Mentor process. Not a problem, Jo pulls up a list of the mentors in the school. She swiftly shortlists who is best to pair you up with and adds your name to her list. Jo informs you that you will shortly receive an email from a student mentor in stage 2 who doing a similar or the same degree as you. There's no pressure to meet up, you can just chat on email if you prefer, it is totally up to you.
That was easy. You thank Jo and then head [[over to your seminar|go to your seminar room]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/get some vitamin D.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Gulbenkian Chairs">
Ah, the autumn sunshine is still quite strong and very warm. Picnic tables and colourful deck chairs litter the lawned areas. You pick a pink chair, sit back and chill. Work can wait. For 45 minutes. Deep breathing and mindfulness.
Times up. You feel relaxed and [[go to your seminar room]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/go to your seminar room.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Seminar Room">
The seminar is led by a completely new person. This fresh-faced seminar leader is called Dr Eden Funyer. Eden is dressed from head to toe in red (even her leather jacket). She must have had donuts for breakfast as she is bouncing about far too energetically and her volume button is set to 'high'. Your eyes hurt just trying to keep track of her. Eden loudly asks people what they thought about the last lecture topic. No-one answers so she ricochets over to a random victim and presses them for a reply. There is only about 12 people in the room so you know it will be your turn to speak sooner or later. The questions are coming thick and fast and the silence follows each one. "DON'T MAKE ME WAIT FOR AN ANSWER!", Eden squeals, getting ready to pounce on her next victim. This is potential hell in a handbag.
All of a sudden you get an urge to speak. You're not sure whether it makes sense but you're going to say it anyway. "EXCELLENT IDEA", Eden shrieks. "GET INVOLVED EVERYONE", she booms. This is exhausting. So much concentration, but your background reading is standing you in good stead. #Dedicated.
You can't fault Eden for her enthusiasm though and she finishes the seminar by reminding you of the $assignmentType due in by the end of term. And don't leave it to the last minute! You look at the assignment title again. You're still not sure how to tackle it but you know there are things you can do to help. You [[concoct a plan]].<img src="images/passages/concoct a plan.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Autumn Leaves">
As the weeks of the Autumn term tick by, you really feel like you're getting into the swing of university life.
Over the course of the next few shared meals you relish the sight of Chimmy getting increasingly frustrated with overly-spicy meals. He soon twigs that the meals are not to blame and continuously washes his cutlery and plates believing them to be contaminated with chilli powder. Eventually Zak dobs you in and confirms the real culprit is in the ketchup. Chimmy says he will definitely be finding an opportunity to prank you back so you'd better watch out!
The $assignmentType deadline looms ever closer and it is quite apparent that you're going to need to be careful about how to use your time. Do you decide whether to [[attend absolutely all your lectures and seminars]], selectively attend the stuff you really enjoy and save time [[listening to lectures that you miss on Kent Player]] or just attend the events that [[you manage to wake up in time for]] and pretend the others didn't happen?
<img src="images/passages/just stick to the core reading.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Student Studying">
Right, let's get this assignment underway. There are no rules about waiting a certain number of weeks before you start drafting your work and you just want to get things underway.
It has been an eternity since you last did a big piece of work and you try to recall the advice given in school about planning and structuring your work. Do you persevere and see what you can come up with using [[your own natural talents]] or go onto the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ website and see if you can book yourself onto the [[assignment writing workshop]] or [[drop your Academic Adviser an email]] and pick their brains about how to get started?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/recommended reading territory.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Fancy Dress in the Library">
Alrighty then. Core reading only gives you the essential information you need. To boss this assignment you're going to need extra evidence contained in the recommended reading lists.
You amble over to Templeman library. Inside, you sense something is different but can't quite place it. The library staff look weird today. Next to the touch screens in the foyer is a large easel displaying a World Book Day poster. Ah, you remember the ramshackle homemade costumes you used to wear proudly at primary school. It seems the Kent library crew have taken the Harry Potter series to heart for the day, either that or they have a penchant for 1970's sweaters and capes.
Your recommended reading list contains some bizarre stuff called 'journals'. You're not sure how to go about accessing that. It's unavoidable, you're going to have to go over and ask Hagrid. You feel like a right donut asking what must be an obvious question. Hagrid smiles behind his fake beard and explains how to access the extensive electronic resources including journals (aka magazines for boffins) and says that's the sort of stuff you need to be looking at for getting top marks. He asks what school you're from. Each school has a dedicated Academic Liaison Librarian who can help with pointers on how to do research and referencing. Would you like him to make you an appointment? [[Yes|ALL Yes]] or [[No|ALL No]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/attend absolutely all your lectures and seminars.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
Absolutely the best plan. There is a direct correlation between attendance and achievement. If you miss any lectures or seminars then a) it is really hard to catch up so you end up with holes in your knowledge (sounds painful), b) only lectures are recorded, not seminars (plus you'll lose seminar participation points) and c) you run the risk of being out-performed by a doughball, assuming the doughball attends all his lectures and seminars.
Another potential time saver; do you [[just stick to the core reading]] so you don't spend too much time on unecessary research or to go back to the library and branch out into the [[recommended reading territory]] to try and get your $assignmentType that top mark?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/listening to lectures that you miss on kent player.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent E-Learning Website">
OK, there are some savings to be made here. But you need to be dedicated enough to listen to ALL of the recorded lectures. Missing any out will leave holes in your knowledge and that's going to give you the colliwobbles when it comes to exams or assigment time.
Another potential time saver; do you [[just stick to the core reading]] so you don't spend too much time on unecessary research or to go back to the library and branch out into the [[recommended reading territory]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/assignment writing workshop.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecturer">
The @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ web page states there is a 1 hour workshop next week and there are still places available. Excellent. You book yourself on and fill the time between now and then with your timetabled events and working through your background reading.
You attend the course. There are only 5 others there so it's quite informal. The session is being run by Graham, who looks like he may have been here since the university was built. But his teaching style is engaging and the hour soon disappears and you're given a whole recipe card for how to go about starting and completing your assignment. It's all coming back to you now. Thunderbirds are go!
NOW you feel absolutely ready to [[start writing this assignment]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 5>>
<<set $SLASScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/drop your academic adviser an email.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Using A Laptop">
After emailing your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, Professor Mark offers you a quick 15 minute appointment during his [[next drop-in office hour]] or alternatively suggests putting you in contact with [[an Academic Peer Mentor]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/your own natural talents.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Working">
You feel sure that, once you start writing, all that school experience will come flooding back. All you need is a title, reference the odd line here and there from the core text then write a conclusion. You are the master of fluffing your way through, dazzling them with your long words and literary wit.
You are ready to [[start writing this assignment]].<img src="images/passages/ALL Yes.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
Hagrid introduces you to your Academic Liaison Librarian. She's called Emma and doesn't look like your typical librarian at all. For starters she is sporting a top-to-toe pink 'Dolores Umbridge' outfit, which is really distracting.
Emma ushers you into an area of the library with lots of mini study rooms. Her nimble fingers quickly work over the keyboard to discover your $assignmentType details on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ as well as the suggested reading list. She can tell you have already previously checked resources out and congratulates you on finding the additional electronic books. She advises you how best to go about researching efficiently to save time, for example, don't read everything, just skim read and scan the text for key words. Wow! Suddenly that huge reading list seems manageable. She also tells you how to avoid plagiarism (when you copy someone else's work and pass it off as your own) and how to reference all your work correctly to get the best marks. Finally, Emma introduces you to @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, an online tool which you can automatically add items you have read from your reading list to, then it magically creates a formatted bibliography, no need to do that all manually. And it is FREE to Kent students. Just that nugget alone is going to save you hours of work.
You thank Emma for her help and feel all puffed up for [[learning all that in a day]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/ALL No.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
You thank Hagrid for his help and say you might take up his offer of an appointment with your Academic Liaison Librarian another time. Like never. You could do without people like that in your social orbit! The extra electronic resources will be quite enough in the meantime.
With your additional recommended bonus reading in the bag, as it were, it dawns on you that it has been an eternity since you last did a big piece of work. You try to recall the advice you were given in school about planning and structuring your work. Do you persevere and see what you can come up with using [[your own natural talents]] or go onto the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ website and see if you can book yourself onto the [[assignment writing workshop]] or [[drop your Academic Adviser an email]] and pick their brains about how to get started?<img src="images/passages/start writing this assignment.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
You draw up your outline and start piecing all your research together, making sure to question everything and make your own judgements as you go along. It takes a few weeks. Sometimes you work in your room, other times you prefer the library or study hubs since PCs are so readily available.
After a shed load of edits, you've finally got something you're [[rather proud of]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/rather proud of.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Houses">
As your document has increased in size the trees outside your house have been turning through all the autumnal shades. It looks so impressive. Great as a selfie background to post on insta, getting all the likes from your old school friends studying in cities.
Your flat mates are also giving their laptops some serious keyboard time in these last few weeks before the Christmas break. Deadlines is the new hot topic these days. Saffa is really struggling with anxiety and going to weekly meetings with her @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ Officer which she says helps enormously. Zak hasn't left his room in at least 4 days but you know he is still alive as you can hear him periodically open his window to air his room.
After one particularly long day on campus you return to your room to find [[it isn't exactly as you left it]].
<img src="images/passages/right to the last minute.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Stress Level">
Risky, but what if you read something that would make a great addition and it is still before the deadline? You don't want to peak too soon. You re-read the $assignmentType one last time. Surely it is worthy of a First? The deadline is 3pm for uploading.
How close do you want to leave it? [[One hour before]] or a [[couple of minutes before]]?<img src="images/passages/submit it now_one hour before.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Assignment Submission">
You click the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Turnitin">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ link on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ where your module is located. You follow the instructions to upload your document. It seems really easy. You click the 'add submission' button and the screen whirls away busily for a moment or two (you're glad you didn't leave this right to the last second). Eventually the screen confirms the upload is complete and you're given a submission ID number, a receipt basically. You dutifully jot this down and feel euphoric that you have finally managed it and easily within the deadline!
[[CONGRATULATIONS!|congratulations quest2]]
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/submit it now_one hour before.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Assignment Submission">
You check all your notes again. Did you cross everything off? Have you made all the points you highlighted in your plan? No! One point hasn't been crossed off. You check your $assignmentType, slightly panicking at the prospect of doing some last minute writing. It's OK. It was included but not crossed off the plan. Definitely worth that one last check.
You click the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Turnitin">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ link on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ where your module is located. You follow the instructions to upload your document. It seems really easy. You click the 'add submission' button and the screen whirls away busily for a moment or two (you're glad you didn't leave this right to the last second). Eventually the screen confirms the upload is complete and you're given a submission ID number, a receipt basically. You dutifully jot this down and feel euphoric that you have finally managed it and easily within the deadline!
[[CONGRATULATIONS!|congratulations quest2]]
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/couple of minutes before.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Stressed Student">
You re-read your plan and your $assignmentType one last time. Looks good. You click the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Turnitin">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ link on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ where your module is located. You still have a good couple of minutes before the 3pm deadline. The intructions explain how to upload your document. It seems really easy. You click the 'add submission' button and the screen whirls away busily. The donut of doom. Why is it so slow? Maybe if you look away it will jolt into action. Nope. You suspect that a whole load of other people are also trying to upload their documents and you must be in some sort of queue. Sweating now. So much work has gone into this.
Eventually, the screen confirms the upload is complete and you're given a submission ID number, a receipt basically. You dutifully jot this down. You go to the submissions summary page. Accepted at 3:01pm. Just one minute out. Surely no-one is going to query that? But the text is in red. Why is that? Your blood pressure starts to creep up. [[What to do]]?
<img class="passagebadge" src="images/quest2badge.png" height=30% width=30%>
You have earned yourself a shiny First Assignment badge. You may have found out about all the different resources you can use when putting an $assignmentType together, quick ways of reading and who you can talk to when you need academic advice. You have also experienced the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Turnitin">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ procedure and worked out that leaving things to the last minute is often not the best plan.
Take a well earned break before you come back to university in the spring term.
You are ready for quest 3: [[Finishing Stage 1 at Kent]].
<<set $quest2Badge = true>>
<<script>>
GA.sendEvent("Quest Completion", "Player Progression", "Quest 2");
<</script>>
<img src="images/passages/what to do.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Washing Machine">
You quickly drop an email to your school's mailbox. Within a few minutes you get a reply confirming that yes, your $assignmentType had been uploaded but no, it wasn't by the deadline. This is serious. You're told that, unless you have a concessionary reason such as illness or impairment that your $assignmentType will not get marked and you will receive a zero grading for that module. Did you have a concessionary reason? You think for a moment. Your hand did get splashed with scalding water when you made a cuppa earlier, does that count? No. You don't have an excuse. That's it. You feel like a failure. All that work for nothing. You could literally burst into tears right now.
This will just have to be chalked down to experience but it is still a bitter pill to swallow. You're so mad at yourself for leaving it right up to the wire. Why did you do that? One thing's for sure, you've got 3 other assignments to submit before the end of term and you are NOT going to leave the upload right to the last minute.
Nevertheless, the first assignment has been completed and so [[this quest has come to an end|congratulations quest2]]
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 10>>
<<set $wellScore -= 5>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/download it.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Downloading a Book from the library">
Simple. 4 pages read and you didn't even leave your seat. At this rate you can easily keep up with the basic reading requirements.
You peruse the vending machine for lunch supplements. A DoubleDecker seems to fit the bill nicely. Whilst chewing through the nougat, you enjoy some uninterrupted facebook time before venturing off to your [[next lecture]]. <img src="images/passages/get on with your reading.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Studying">
Chimmy nods and says he'd better get over to the library anyway so he'll see you back at home. You start your reading on your laptop. It doesn't take long to skim the mandatory reading and you've made a few hasty notes in readiness for the seminar. You've just earned yourself a [[decent lunch|more substantial]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/lunch hunt.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Campus path to Rutherford College">
Chimmy says someone in his last lecture told him [[Rutherford dining hall]] is the place to go for a plate full of comfort food without blowing the budget. This needs urgent investigation.<img src="images/passages/Rutherford dining hall.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Rutherford College Dining Hall">
Rutherford is a traditional brick building, named after the scientist who developed the nuclear theory of the atom. It is arranged in a bizarre cross shape with a central cloister, surrounded on all sides by corridors and rooms designed to make you dizzy with disorientation. Luckily, the dining hall is exceptionally well signed and all routes seeming to lead there.
As you walk into the full height dining hall, it is exactly as you expected. Hogwarts with a 1960's vibe. The entire hall has been set out with large, long tables. Staff and students alike are dining here, sometimes together, sometimes in their respective groups. Pitchers of water are placed strategically along all the tables, accompanied by salt and pepper pots.
Chimmy has disppeared round to the [[food collection area]].
<img src="images/passages/fish and chips.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A plate of Fish and Chips">
A large battered fish tent now protects your plateful of chips. You balance the dish over to one of the dining tables. Chimmy has gone for the same dish but with a vast amount of peas as well. The peas are soon tumbling off his plate and swimming erratically around his food tray, becoming an unofficial spirit level.
Once seated, you both hungrily attack the food like your life depends on it. A large dent is made through the crispy batter and light, white flaky fish to discover the chippy treasure underneath. By the time half the food has gone the pace has slowed and you [[take a short pit stop]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/wok bar.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A plate of noodles.">
The sizeable bowl is filled to over-flowing, forcing worm-like noddles to drip down the sides onto the tray. Chimmy has chosen the same dish and you both carefully navigate the aisles of chairs until you reach an empty section of bench before any noodles manage to wiggle free of the tray.
Once seated, several minutes of concentrated noodle slurping follows, interrupted by moments of crunching on vegetables. The level in the bowl doesn't appear to be going down very fast. You giggle to yourself at the sight of Chimmy's greasy whiplashed chin and t-shirt.
By half way the slurp rate has slowed considerably. There is still no sight of the bottom of the bowl but you're determined not to give up before Chimmy who by now can only manage a single noodle at a time. Eventually he throws his fork into the bowl and whimpers he cannot manage another morsel, to which you take one more noodle then throw in the towel. You both sit back to admire your food babies.
You realise it is going to be a struggle to get out of your chair and waddle to your [[next lecture]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/vegetable lasagne.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Vegetable Lasagne">
Every inch of plate has been smothered by huge sheets of pasta laced with an allotment's worth of veggies. You place the plate cautiously on your tray, hoping that the lasagne will not land-slide off the sides. Chimmy has chosen the same dish and you both carefully navigate the aisles of chairs, holding your plates of wobbly cheesiness with both hands until you reach an empty section of table.
Several minutes of pasta stabbing and face stuffing follow. It slips down quickly. It's just as good as what your mum makes. By the time your plate is half empty you are starting to slow down and towards the end you can barely take another mouthful but you don't want to be defeated before Chimmy. Eventually you are both beaten. You sit back and admire your food baby. You realise it is going to be a struggle to get out of your chair and waddle to your [[next lecture]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/one of the scanners.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Photocopier">
A member of staff is reassuringly next to the scanner and between you the book gets manhandled onto the scanner, flipped over, scanned again, and again. You scan your KentOne card in payment. The librarian takes pity on you and offers to return the book for you and together, you hoist it onto the trolley leaving sweaty handprints across the cover as evidence of your efforts.
Surely no-one else will have gone to this much effort to bag this piece of reading? In for a penny, you head back to the shelf to see what else you can uncover. Oooh, 3 more books from the recommended list and they're nice and small. You'll have those. Using self-service, you have them checked out faster than a speeding ticket. That deserves some [[light refreshment]].<img src="images/passages/light refreshment.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Accomodation">
You stroll across the green, dodging team frisbee, to Mungo's bar in Eliot college. You literally cannot believe your luck - they do a 'Cheeky Freak' freakshake which is made using Nutella. If there is ever proof that you were destined to come to Kent, this is it.
Whoa, a beast of a shake topped with brownies gets carefully delivered to your table. You make a start on one of the books you've just obtained as you slurp your way through the choco-gloop.
Eventually, appetite satisfied, you pack up your reading material, feeling somewhat disappointed you're still ploughing through your first chapter. It's so heavy going and you're not sure whether to take notes or to rely on osmosis for the key points to stick in your brain.
You [[walk back to your flat]], taking the extra long walk around all the Parkwood zones to familiarise yourself.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/in the kitchen_walk back to your flat.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Red Peppers">
Tiz is already home. It is her turn to cook this evening and she's making an early start on the shepherd's pie that her dad showed her how to make. It seems to contain around 83 ingredients and looks far too ambitious. You say nothing.
Zak is the next back home. He's had 3 lectures today but says they were mostly covering stuff that he had done at A-Level so it wasn't too taxing. He's got a thick Javascript library book tucked under his arm so he's clearly looked at his reading lists. Zak makes himself a mug of tea and you both watch Tiz slice carrots. Not so much 'slice' as 'chunk' into irregular sized wedges. Then you spot the Tabasco sauce Tiz has waiting next to her and [[a plan is born|a plan is born2]].
<img src="images/passages/R&R time2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Food">
When you get back Zak is already in the kitchen making a brew, sploshing tea all over the work surface. Tiz is also home and is about to start cooking the evening meal, as it is her turn today. She is following the shepherd's pie recipe that her dad showed her how to make. It seems to contain around 83 ingredients and looks far too ambitious. You say nothing.
You and Zak watch Tiz slice carrots from the safety of the dining table. Not so much 'slice' as 'chunk' into irregular sized wedges. Then you spot the Tabasco sauce Tiz has waiting next to her and [[a plan is born|a plan is born2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>>
<img src="images/passages/head off to the meeting.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Gulbenkian Cafe">
Smart choice! Just one bit of advice from your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ might save you wasting hours being unecessarily stuck on something.
As you leave your room you hear a delicate 'crack' sound by your feet. On the floor, directly outside your room is a now smashed raw egg. Chimmy's giggling face appears from the kitchen. Evidently, he had balanced the egg on your door handle and had been waiting over an hour for you to emerge from your room.
It transpires raw egg doesn't like being picked up and squirms between your fingers. A kitchen roll later and most of the mess is removed leaving just a sticky residue. Chimmy keeps proudly inspecting your progress, pointing out the missed bits. You are already planning how to get him back.
It's too late for breakfast now. You treat yourself to a take-away mocha from the Gulbenkian cafe on your way to your school and get your loyalty card stamped (only need to buy 6 more before you get a free drink). You're feeling perky and ready for your Academic Adviser group meeting.
It's in a small seminar room. A steady stream of students are going in. You see Bob sat over on the left. She sees you come in and waves. Gabriel is sat nearer the centre. Do you go and sit [[next to Bob]] or [[next to Gabriel]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/sit this one out.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Smashed Egg">
You've got AGES to get to know your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, so what's the rush? Surely they're just going to be telling you stuff that has been mentioned in various Welcome Week events and lectures? You're head is already full of advice. And Nutella. There's quite a lot of Nutella in there. It's important to be properly rested if you're to learn so the extra time having a lie in is well spent.
Eventually, you haul yourself out of bed. As you leave your room you hear a delicate 'crack' sound by your feet. On the floor, directly outside your room is a now smashed raw egg. Chimmy's giggling face appears from the kitchen. He had balanced the egg on your door handle and had been waiting a good hour for you to emerge from your room.
It transpires raw egg doesn't like being picked up and squirms between your fingers. A kitchen roll later and most of the mess is removed leaving just a sticky residue. Chimmy keeps proudly inspecting your progress, pointing out the missed bits. You are already planning how to get him back.
Finally, you get a coffee and several slices of Nutella on toast before walking slowly onto campus. You're a bit early for your seminar so decide to visit the Gulbenkian toilets (which you have already awarded joint top marks for being the best toilets on campus, and there have been an awful lot to test) and then make the most of the warm weather and [[get some vitamin D]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/learning all that in a day.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Options">
It has been an eternity since you last did a big piece of work and you try to recall the advice given in school about planning and structuring your work. Do you persevere and see what you can come up with using [[your own natural talents]] or go onto the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ website and see if you can book yourself onto the [[assignment writing workshop]] or [[drop your Academic Adviser an email]] and pick their brains about how to get started?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/next drop in office hour.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge's Office">
Mark's door is ajar when you turn up at the drop-in time. He sees you before you get the chance to knock and ushers you in. 'Are you well?' he asks. You nod, 'I thought you were' he replies.
He waves towards a chair then hastily removes the pile of papers that are already resident there. You tell Mark that you just don't know where to start with your $assignmentType, it's been a lifetime since you did a large piece of work and the reading list is intimidating. Mark asks what your first thoughts about the $assignmentType are, what comes to mind? What are the gaps in those thoughts and where might you be able to find out more? He asks, just because it is written in a book, is it right? And what if another author says something different? It's about looking at all perspectives then providing your own judgement, backed up by research. After exploring some potential ideas together you feel your confidence grow. Mark clearly loves the subject and can talk the legs off a donkey about it. He says you are welcome to drop by next week to discuss how your thoughts are developing.
Mark finishes by asking how you're settling in and whether there is anything else he can help with.
You leave feeling more than ready to [[start writing this assignment]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/An academic peer mentor.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Academic Peer Mentor">
Within a day, you've been matched to an Academic Peer Mentor called Dave. You send a couple of introductory emails back and forth. It feels a bit awkward at first but Dave says it's no problem. He sounds busy, but super keen to impart some of his positive experiences. You explain it is a struggle getting started on the first $assignmentType. Motivation is an issue, as is knowing when to stop researching and start writing etc. He gives you a reality check. This is just one $assignmentType of many. It's OK not to get the formula right first time and learning from mistakes is valuable. He struggled too apparently, but now he's got his learning all figured out and gets good grades. He tells you to break the $assignmentType down into chunks and to pace yourself. You've got plenty of time to change things around and add more detail if necessary. Dave says he's happy to meet you and go through your ideas if you feel that will help. You decide that you've been given the boost you needed, thank him for his support and give yourself a ficticious telling off. Stop procrastinating and commit to getting this task done!
You are finally ready to [[start writing this assignment]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/finishing stage 1 at kent.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Campus Daffodils">
You return back to your Kent home after the Christmas holiday. It was fantastic to go back to family and friends, share your experiences and walk around your home town wearing your University of Kent logo hoodie!
Your new quest is to finish your first year at Kent, keeping up with your assignments and completing your end of year exams.
It seems an age since you were last with your flatmates. Saffa hugs everyone when she sees them come through the door, even the parents doing the drop off! Saffa's Dad is hauling her holographic suitcase up the stairs. Zak is continuing to live light by arriving by train with just his rucksack and a pie he picked up at a bakery enroute. As all his clothes are black his bag may just as well only contain one outfit. Even his bath towel is jet black. Chimmy has been dropped off by his older brother. You can hear the throaty modified engine long before you see the car pull up. The back parcel shelf is pulsating with the bass beat of the music consuming the interior of the car. His brother only stays long enough to accept a free cup of tea and a handful of jammy dodgers before he roars off leaving Chimmy to it. Tiz was the first to arrive and had thoughtfully got some basic supplies to enable drinks and snacks to be available.
Everyone unpacks and you all [[convene in the kitchen]].
<<if previous() is "Campus Choice" and visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 60>>
<<set $wellScore += 25>>
<</if>>
<<script>>
if(State.getVar('$skipped') == true)
{
GA.sendEvent("Skipped Quest", "Player Progression", "Skipped to Quest 3");
}
<</script>>
<<set $skipped = false>><img src="images/passages/convene in the kitchen.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Christmas Kitchen">
You each share stories about the daft stuff you got up to during the holidays including Chimmy's Dad trying to serve the Christmas dinner wearing an inflatable sumo costume, the belly of which got covered in cauliflower cheese as he reached for the brussel sprouts.
It's good to be back with everyone again. Although it was great going home, it feels homely coming back to Kent too. You make a group online shopping order for tomorrow and Tiz's mum has supplied enough pasta and sauce to last until next Christmas!
Chimmy doesn't want to risk getting the short straw on the washing up each week so suggests the house tries out a new game called <a href="http://chorewars.com" target="_blank">Chore Wars</a>. It's where a house all club together and battle against each other to earn experience points or get the scapegoat duty if they have slacked off their share of cleaning. You all agree to give it a go after agreeing rules and selecting avatars.
You [[retreat to your room to finish unpacking]] and ramp up the thermostat on the radiator now that the wintery weather is really kicking in.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/click on your assignment link.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lego Man at Desk">
After clicking the title of your assignment, it opens up with a whole load of highlights and comments from the person who marked it. Your eye brow raises at the sight of so much detail. The notes are succinct and frank telling you what could be done better, how one of your arguments doesn't hold weight and your conclusion isn't conclusive! Harsh. Deflated, you fall back into your chair.
Do you [[use the feedback as a way to improve]] or feel so depressed about it you switch off your laptop and make a mental note [[not to look at feedback in future]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/decide to leave it.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Bedroom">
What's done is done. You can't go back and edit the assignment so what's the point? You can always improve your marks over time and most of the marks weren't that bad.
You go to bed [[blissfully unbothered|next day relaxed]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/use the feedback as a way to improve.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Using Feedback">
Take it on the chin. You're reading this out of context and making it personal. The marker wouldn't have made those comments if they didn't feel they were valuable. Get a fresh piece of paper and write feedback at the top. Now list the type of comments you got. Was it sentence structure, poor research, grammar problems, lack of or too many citations or something else? Now do the same for the other assignments that have been marked. Are you starting to see a pattern? Continue doing this for each piece of feedback you get. Use it to help you create future assignments but also to identify where you might need to hone your skills.
You pat yourself on the back for completing the work and using it as a learning point to improve going forwards. Afterall, this is part of your ultimate goal to get the best degree possible.
Some of the feedback doesn't make sense. Do you make an [[appointment to see your Academic Adviser]], email an [[Academic Peer Mentor]] or just [[ignore the feedback]], you've got the main points?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/not to look at feedback in future.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Reading">
You had made a New Year's Resolution to stay positive and that includes not looking at negative comments plastered all over your work. There will be plenty of other assignments to focus on going forwards.
You go to bed and lie awake most of the night stewing over those comments. Perhaps you're not that academic afterall? You hope you can scrape your way through the rest of the course.
After a few restless hours you eventually [[manage to sleep|next day depressed]].<img src="images/passages/academic peer mentor_appointment to see your academic adviser.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Looking at your phone">
While it is all still fresh in your head, you drop your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, Prof. Mark Partridge a line, saying that you'd like to discuss your feedback. He must be working late as he replies almost immediately saying that it's not a problem at all, drop by tomorrow and he can unravel the feedback with you.
A wave of relief sweeps over you and [[you go to bed feeling like you're going to be able to claw something back|next day 2]] from this particular own goal.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/academic peer mentor_appointment to see your academic adviser.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Looking at your phone">
You start penning an email to your Academic Peer Mentor, Dave. It sounds a bit whiney and defensive, emphasising how you toiled over that $assignmentType and that you don't feel the criticism is deserved. You ask for a chat, to see if you're being reasonable or whether you just need to suck up.
You [[go to bed still feeling hurt|next day3 hurt]] by those negative comments and pin your hopes on Dave being able to wave his magic wand and fix it all.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/ignore the feedback.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tickboxes">
You've got a page full of good points to concentrate on. That's plenty to keep you busy. The page gets stuck onto the pin board. Take it one day at a time. You shut down your laptop and [[get an early night|next day relaxed]]. <img src="images/passages/retreat to your room to finish unpacking.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Bedroom">
Boo, the toy cat, is back in his proper place on the bed, now missing his second eye. Clothes properly hung up and clean shoes lined up along the wall.
You login and view your timetable for this term. It's totally different, just as you were getting used to the last one! This one seems better though, more consolidated. You carefully transfer the details to your timetable template on your wall.
On @@.serviceLink;<<link "SDS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, all the marks for those pieces of work submitted before Christmas have all been returned. They are all listed in black and white. It's pretty much as you expected, apart from one of them which makes your blood pressure momentarily rise whilst simultaneously causing your stomach to sink.
Do you go to @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, [[click your assignment link]] to check your mark and feedback or [[decide to leave it]], afterall there's nothing you can do about it now?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/next day2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge's Office">
After your morning lectures you call by Prof. Mark's office. He has papers strewn all over his floor that you can hardly see the rug on his floor. He clears a little pathway along which you can access his spare chair.
You describe how the cruel feedback made you want to crawl into a bin and eat pencil shavings. Mark explains how comments are always brief and are never a personal attack. He opens the $assignmentType and takes a moment to digest the highlighted comments giving the ocassional 'uh-huh' or 'mmm?'. He swings his chair back in your direction.
Over the next 10 minutes Mark explains the purpose of each comment. It makes so much sense! Mark congratulates you for taking the opportunity to go through the feedback and suggests you do the same for all your pieces of returned work. He also advises that, for confidence, you have a look at the wide range of workshops offered by @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ that really help develop the ideas he has discussed with you.
You thank Mark for his time and promise to [[check out the SLAS web pages]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/check out the SLAS web pages.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="SLAS Essay Writing Process">
The @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ web page has a plethora of short one off workshops related to essay/report writing as well as longer courses for those who want the full shebang.
You decide to start with a short course and book yourself onto a one-hour general writing workshop which explores the key ways to research plan and draft an assignment. It runs next week and fits nicely within your timetables events.
You smugly stroll over [[to your next lecture|to your lecture]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $SLASScore += 1>>
<</if>>To go back and add to quest 2:
Go to theatre - Kent players?
To go back and add to quest 3: +1
Room cordoned off (Chimmy pranks you)
To go back and add to quest 4:
check progress profiles mentioned
Nutella
To check all stages have award badges at the end. yes: 1,2,3
See also required story edits in book<img src="images/passages/next day relaxed.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Path">
After a refreshing sleep you make yourself a nice warm bowl of porridge with a brown swirl of Nutella on the top on this frosty morning. Keen to set off for your lecture, you are eager to see what the new set of modules this term holds in store. You get to the Templeman library lecture theatre and [[walk in|to your lecture]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/next day3 hurt.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Cafe">
You wake feeling refreshed and ready to take on the start of a new week. The bowl of warm porridge with a large swirl of brown Nutella on the top certainly helps!
You settle into the new rhythm of lectures, workshops and seminars. Mid week you get an email from Dave saying he can meet you in the Sibson cafe for a coffee and chat. You remember to take your reusable travel mug with you to get a discount on your drink and get your loyalty card stamped (only need one more stamp for a free drink).
As you swish the peach and cranberry tea bag around in your cup you share your $assignmentType feedback woes to Dave who nods and smiles knowingly at each juncture. He shares his experiences of receiving bad feedback. It takes a while. He has taken some of the same modules as you and fell at the same hurdles. Dave reassures that constructive criticism is not a personal attack. Assignments look for different writing qualities compared to those at school or college, but it will come with practice. He advises you how to find the best resources and checks that you're using all the library has on offer.
You thank Dave then head off [[to your lecture]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/to your lecture.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students">
Although this is a new module you spot a lot of familiar faces jostling for a seat in the lecture theatre. Do you go and sit next to [[Pomeline (aka Bob)]] or [[Gabriel]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/Pomeline (aka bob)_Gabriel.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecturer">
Bob sheds her wintery layers before sitting down. You tell her about your $assignmentType feedback and she shares hers with you (it sounds similar). You also compare which modules you have chosen for the new term. Bob is doing two of your modules, one of which involves giving a group presentation. You squirm at the thought.
The lecture begins, you haven't met this lecturer before. He's called Dr Tomas Quelin but happy to be referred to as Tom. Tom is clearly so eager to share his knowledge for his subject that the words come tumbling out at speed. You hopelessly jot some key points down. Bob is equally struggling, using her simple 'Cornell Notes' template page she has adopted this term. By the end of the lecture you have several pages of scrawl and feel somewhat shellshocked.
Bob suggests a work study group for that module to help keep up to date and share thoughts. Do you say [[yes, you're in]] as this module is clearly going to need some new tactics or [[no, you'll just go and listen to the lecture recordings]] each time on Kent Player instead?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/Pomeline (aka bob)_Gabriel.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecturer">
Gabriel is sitting in his big green coat with a Tottenham scarf around his neck. He nods as you sit down next to him and slurps noisily from his Tottenham blue travel mug. It smells like minestrone soup, which is odd for 10am. After a brief chat about the Christmas vacation, you quiz Gabriel about his assignments from the end of last term. Gabriel admits he didn't get blinding results and he has had a letter from his school stating one of his marks have been withheld as he has been accused of plagiarism. He has been summoned to a meeting with the senior tutor later in the week to explain himself. It sounds terrifying but Gabriel's expression showed no emotion.
The lecture begins, you haven't met this lecturer before. He's called Dr Tomas Quelin but happy to be referred to as Tom. Tom is clearly so eager to share his knowledge that his words tumble out at speed. You hopelessly try to jot some key points down. Gabriel has ceased taking notes and is just listening instead (with his ear buds in). By the end of the lecture you have several pages of scrawl and feel somewhat shellshocked. Gabriel is eager to leave and asks if you fancy a game of pool in Eliot college? Do you [[go and play pool]] or decline and go somewhere to [[listen to the lecture recording]] again?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/yes youre in.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Group Study">
Bob is a star organiser and has gathered a group of 4 other students from the module to meet at the group study areas in Templeman library. You're introduced to Hannah, Marta, Brian and James. You all agree the new module is a challenge and listen to each other's understanding of content so far. James is intent on over complicating everything but his diverse vocabulary sounds impressive so you jot down some of what he says hoping to magpie those words for a later date.
Bob introduces everyone to her Cornell note taking method which, to be fair, makes sense and cuts down on a lot of unnecessary writing. Brian provided a totally different perspective on the lecture which got everyone thinking and kick started a bit of a debate between him and Marta (who clearly loves a good arguement and was straining to keep her voice low).
Hannah, the sensible one, suggested the group meet every other week to go through lecture and seminar notes and to start formulating a plan for the group presentation. Result! [[This group means business]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/no youll just go and listen to the lecture recordings.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Studying">
Later that evening you access the lecture recording for your new module. You listen to Tom's rapid-fire hypotheses and try to fill in the blank bits of your notes. It still doesn't make 100% sense but that's nothing new. You research a bit about Bob's Cornell note taking technique and promise yourself to give it a try. You [[message Bob]] and ask her whether she'd like to join you for the group presentation. <img src="images/passages/go and play pool.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Playing Pool">
Gabriel quickly navigates you through the labyrinth of disorientating corridors in Eliot college. The pool room is in the heart of the building and has 3 large pool tables. Gabriel walks over to the nearest one, puts down his belongings and starts stacking the table ready for a game. As the rest of the morning turns into afternoon you learn that Gabriel is at Kent to have the best time possible and is so far doing a pretty good job. You enquire whether that includes going for meetings about plagiarism with the senior tutor? He shrugs dismissively and tells you he doesn't intend turning up. You ask him about the forthcoming group presentation and ask if he wants to join forces with you. Yeah, Gabriel looks pleased at that suggestion so you make a plan to meet next week to go through some ideas.
Gabriel asks if you want to join him for a trip into Canterbury on Saturday night to try out one of the local night clubs. Do you agree to join him to [[sample the Canterbury night life]] or decline and let him know you'll [[meet next week for the presentation planning|end of first week]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/listen to the lecture recording.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Computer Suite">
You find a spare PC in the library, plug in your headphones and access Kent Player to listen to the lecture again. Tom's rapid-fire hypotheses are forced upon you once more. You try to fill in the blank bits of your notes. It still doesn't make 100% sense but that's nothing new.
You decide to [[message Bob]] and ask her whether she'd like to join you for the group presentation.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/message bob.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Students">
By the end of the week Bob has messaged back to confirm she would love to join you for the presentation group and she has also rounded up 4 others from the module, Hannah, Marta, Brian and James to join you. You hope they're all willing to pull their own weight and [[get the work done fairly|This group means business]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/this group means business_end of the first week.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Group Study">
By the end of the first week back it feels like you've settled into your new routine. Your flatmates Chimmy and Tiz agree, but Zak has barely made it out of his room all week and Saffa is starting to feel anxious about the impending deadlines and the new requirements for the term.
Chimmy suggests you all go to [[The Venue]] at Kent Union on Saturday night to let your hair down and spend some time together. Or would you rather stay in your room and [[have some time to yourself]]?<img src="images/passages/sample the canterbury night life.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Cathedral at night">
By Saturday you feel like you've earned this night out. As agreed, Gabriel is waiting at the bus stop and 5 minutes later you're both in town. It's very busy with elegant Christmas lights still twinkling above the streets and festive displays in the shops. There is an air of excitement and no-one seems phased by the near zero temperatures. After a quick drink in a packed city centre pub you walk through Dane John Gardens, whose fountain is dormant and flower beds are long empty, towards Club Chemistry. You can hear the music before you even see the building. Set right next to the train station, some revellers have just got off a train and casually walk next door [[to the club]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/to the club.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Club Chemistry">
The door staff let you in after scrutinising your ID (thank goodness you remembered to bring that). Up several flights of dimly lit stairs the main doors are opened with a whoosh and your ears are given the full auditory assault of dance music. Lights are moving everywhere and lots of bodies are packed onto the dance floor. At intervals you hear DJ Joe-Zeff, Canterbury's version of Jay-Zee, rate his choice of music (perpetually excellent) before the next track booms out of the speakers. You spend the next couple of hours alternating between refreshment scavanges and bouncing up and down on the dancefloor sandwiched within the sweaty horde. It's the best night out you've had since you finished school!
By the end of the night DJ Joe-Zeff winds down the tempo, marking the sad end of club hours. Gabriel eventually appears, having been conspicuously absent, and introduces you to his new 'friend' Maxine (also a Kent student, as it turns out). You all agree to catch the bus back to campus together. Maxine is carrying her shoes and doesn't seem to mind the cold ground or the fact she has no coat.
Enroute to the bus station [[the kebab van beckons]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/the kebab van beckons.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Doner Kebab">
The huge doner kebab was begging to be bought and it is dripping with lashings of garlic sauce. Rather annoyingly, Maxine and Gabriel help themselves to slices of the lamb forcing you to eat it much quicker than you would normally do with minimal ettiquette. Wow, it tasted good though. You catch the night bus back to campus. Gabriel and Maxine say goodnight to you and head off to Eliot where Gabriel is resident. You need to walk back to Parkwood but are suddenly aware of the lateness and how still everything seems. The paths are well lit and you can see a multitude of CCTV cameras but you still use your SafeZone app which you smartly downloaded onto your phone on arrival to contact campus security to request [[a walking taxi]]. <img src="images/passages/a walking taxi.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Campus Security">
Within moments one of the campus security staff appears and seems happy to have the preoccupation of a walk over to Parkwood with you. Spencer looks every inch the stereotypical burley security staff member with his walkie talkie constantly chatting to no-one on his utility belt. He laughs at the recollection of your night out and supports your outrage of having to share the kebab. Your voice is increasingly shakey and you shudder in the cold night air. Your pace quickens. At the flat door you thank Spencer who turns and vanishes back down the path. You creep upstairs to your room. Hmm, is it too late to shower? Not too late but definitely too much effort. You squeeze some toothpaste into your mouth, chew it for a few seconds then spit it into the sink. That will do. [[You pass out on your bed]] still full dressed.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/back to parkwood_back to parkwood2_you pass out on your bed.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Shower Head">
The following afternoon (the morning got cancelled) you wake up with a mouth like matted shagpile. The mirror confirms you've aged half a decade in 12 hours. You wash the white, dry toothpaste from the side of your face and strands of your hair and stand for several statuesque minutes under the warm shower. Your clothes are splattered with some sort of dessicated garlicky derivative that immediately engages your stomach muscles. You quickly shove the clothes into a bag whilst holding your breath and tuck the bag under your bed.
Breakfast (at 3pm) suddenly seems appealing so you [[go into the kitchen]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 4>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/this group means business_end of the first week.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Group Study">
By the end of the first week back it feels like you've settled into your new routine. Your flatmates Chimmy and Tiz agree, but Zak has barely made it out of his room all week and Saffa is starting to feel anxious about the impending deadlines and the new requirements for the term.
Chimmy suggests you all go to [[The Venue|The Venue2]] at Kent Union on Saturday night to let your hair down and spend some time together. Or would you rather stay in your room and [[have some time to yourself|time to yourself2]]?<img src="images/passages/The venue.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Venue">
The queue outside the Venue, right next door to Kent Union, tells you this place is popular and students are quickly let into the night club. Both dance floors are already packed with people, waving glow sticks and bouncing up and down in time to the music. You weren't aware of it being a theme night however many students appear in pyjamas. Somehow Zak has already managed to get served at the bar and is cuddling his pint. It takes a moment for the rest of you to aquire your drinks (bargain price!) and secure a good vantage point.
The music is a mixture of RnB and drum and bass this evening and the crowd are clearly loving it. The self proclaimed world class mixer DJ Jezza is churning out perpetual floor fillers. It doesn't take long before Saffa and Tiz are jumping up and down on the dance floor and you're left [[holding all the drinks|holding all the drinks2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/The venue.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Venue">
The queue outside the Venue, next door to Kent Union, tells you this place is popular and students are quickly let into the night club. Both dance floors are already packed with people, waving glow sticks and bouncing up and down in time to the music. You weren't aware of it being a theme night however many students appear in what looks like pyjamas. Somehow Zak has already managed to get served at the bar and is cuddling his pint. It takes a moment for the rest of you to aquire your drinks (bargain price!) and secure a good vantage point.
The music is a mixture of RnB and drum and bass this evening and the crowd are clearly loving it. The self proclaimed world class mixer DJ Jezza is churning out perpetual floor fillers. It doesn't take long before Saffa and Tiz are jumping up and down on the dance floor and you're left [[holding all the drinks]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/brave breakfast at 3pm_go into the kitchen.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tin Cans">
Fry up? No eggs. Porridge? Too claggy. Sugar puffs and a strong cup of coffee it is. Now THAT was a night out! No-one else has materialised from their rooms yet so you seize the opportunity to remove all the labels from the food tins Chimmy has stocked in his cupboard. You make a note to pick up a tin of cat food to add to the mix later in the week, just for added amusement.
You decide to spend what's left of the day sprawled on your bed getting through some of your core reading before the books are due back.
At some point you become aware that it has started snowing and looks to be settling on the ground quite quickly. You wonder if [[lectures will be affected in any way]].<img src="images/passages/holding all the drinks.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Alcoholic Drinks">
A group next to you take pity and start chatting. You need to look upwards to talk to Paven, the tallest member of the group. He jokes about always being left to hold the drinks too when his friends Jacqui and Triona are with him. Jacqui and Triona look at each other then laugh at their apparent common traits. Jacqui giggles at you for constantly misunderstanding everything she says in her South African accent.
At that point Saffa appears to reclaim her drink and sniffs it nervously. Did you have your eye on it the whole time? Was it unattended? You assure her that nothing came between you and her J20 but she insists going to the bar to use one of the Union's tamper testing kits. She returns several minutes later having been reassured by the power of chemistry.
Triona hands you a glow stick which signals the switch to dance mode. The music seems to get louder and better with every track and you're totally lost in the euphoria of friends, pulsating lights and heavy bass beats resonating through your bones.
Exhausted, and at 3am, DJ Jezza confirms the end of the evening. Campus security staff are present outside the night club ensuring everyone is capable of getting back home and offering their walking taxi service for anyone who needs it. You re-group with your flat mates and walk along the paths lit by cones of bright light, through the frosty night [[back to Parkwood|back to Parkwood2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/holding all the drinks.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Alcoholic Drinks">
A group next to you take pity and start chatting. You need to look upwards to talk to Paven, the tallest member of the group. He jokes about always being left to hold the drinks too when his friends Jacqui and Triona are with him. Jacqui and Triona look at each other then laugh at their apparent common traits. Jacqui giggles at you for constantly misunderstanding everything she says in her South African accent.
At that point Saffa appears to reclaim her drink and sniffs it nervously. Did you have your eye on it the whole time? Was it unattended? You assure her that nothing came between you and her J20 but she insists going to the bar to use one of the Union's tamper testing kits. She returns several minutes later having been reassured by the power of chemistry.
Triona hands you a glow stick which signals the switch to dance mode. The music seems to get louder and better with every track and you're totally lost in the euphoria of friends, pulsating lights and heavy bass beats resonating through your bones.
Exhausted, and at 3am, DJ Jezza confirms the end of the evening. Campus security staff are present outside the night club ensuring everyone is capable of getting back home and offering their walking taxi service for anyone who needs it. You re-group with your flatmates and walk along the paths lit by cones of bright light, through the frosty night [[back to Parkwood]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/back to parkwood_back to parkwood2_you pass out on your bed.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Shower Head">
The following afternoon (you missed the entire morning) you wake up with a mouth like an old fur boot a family of mice have hibernated in. The mirror confirms you've aged half a decade in 12 hours. You stand for several statuesque minutes under the warm shower, then clear up your floordrobe and decide to [[brave breakfast at 3pm]].<img src="images/passages/back to parkwood_back to parkwood2_you pass out on your bed.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Shower Head">
The following afternoon (you missed the entire morning) you wake up with a mouth like an old fur boot that a family of mice have hibernated in. The mirror confirms you've aged half a decade in 12 hours. You stand for several statuesque minutes under the warm shower, then clear up your floordrobe and decide to [[brave breakfast at 3pm|go into the kitchen]].<img src="images/passages/brave breakfast at 3pm_go into the kitchen.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tin Cans">
Fry up? No eggs. Porridge? Too claggy. Sugar puffs and a strong cup of coffee it is. Now THAT was a night out! No-one else has materialised from their rooms yet so you seize the opportunity to remove all the labels from the food tins Chimmy has stocked in his cupboard. You make a note to pick up a tin of cat food to add to the mix later in the week, just for added amusement.
You decide to spend what's left of the day sprawled on your bed getting through some of your core reading before the books are due back.
At some point you become aware that it has started snowing and looks to be settling on the ground quite quickly. You wonder if [[lectures will be affected in any way|lectures affected 3]].<img src="images/passages/lectures will be affected in any way_lectures affected3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Snowy Campus">
True enough, a good 15cm of snow is still on the ground by the Monday morning. A network of rabbit footprints criss-cross the entire area. You didn't plan for snow when you packed your belongings for this term and now your shoes are quickly sodden and toes are numb. Chimmy is out of his room surprisingly early and is busy rolling a big snowball across the submerged grass. It's the first time you notice, now the trees are totally bare, that a pair of shoes has been flung over one of the branches as a prank. They look more snow worthy than your own shoes and you momentarily wonder if you can reach them!
Tiz comes out of the house sporting an enormous yet typically stylish mohair bobble hat. They don't have lectures first thing and you know how this is going to end so you [[tread carefully towards central campus]] before a snowball comes your way.<img src="images/passages/lectures will be affected in any way_lectures affected3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Snowy Campus">
True enough, a good 15cm of snow is still on the ground by the Monday morning. A network of rabbit footprints criss-cross the entire area. You didn't plan for snow when you packed your belongings for this term and now your shoes are quickly sodden and toes are numb. Chimmy is out of his room surprisingly early and is busy rolling a big snowball across the submerged grass. It's the first time you notice, now the trees are totally bare, that a pair of shoes has been flung over one of the branches as a prank. They look more snow worthy than your own shoes and you momentarily wonder if you can reach them!
Tiz comes out of the house sporting an enormous yet typically stylish mohair bobble hat. They don't have lectures first thing and you know how this is going to end so you [[tread carefully towards central campus|towards campus3]] before a snowball comes your way.<img src="images/passages/tread carefully towards central campus 1_2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Seminar Room">
Everything is running and open as normal on campus. You attend your seminar (you're glad for having done that reading yesterday) and even manage to put your hand up to ask a few questions much to the delight of Dr Eden Funyer, the seminar leader.
Afterwards you go to a study hub as agreed to meet Gabriel to get ready for the group presentation. Gabriel arrives late but eventually you describe the research done to date and explain how you questioned its critical value. Gabriel thinks what you've done sounds fine as it is. It transpires he hasn't got around to his share of the task yet as he didn't fully understand the requirements and asks for your help to complete his share. The presentations are due at the end of next week and time is running out.
Do you [[offer to take on more of his share of the task]] or continue with your [[own portion of work]]?
<img src="images/passages/tread carefully towards central campus 1_2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Seminar Room">
Everything is running and open as normal on campus. You attend your seminar (you're glad for having done that reading yesterday) and even manage to put your hand up to ask a few questions which delighted Dr Eden Funyer who was running the session.
Afterwards you go to a study hub as agreed to meet your study group to get ready for the group presentation. Everyone has taken an element of the task and completed the required research. You take it in turns to discuss your findings, the variety of resources used, debate its critical value and whether further supporting evidence is required. You all agree to meet again the following week to put all the parts of the presentation together ahead of the submission. You're feeling really positive about this and quite astounded at what you have collectively been able to uncover. Hannah suggests that you all look at the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ website before the next meeting as it contains lots of useful tips about giving presentations for that real competitive edge!
Do you [[take Hannah's advice]] or decide you've got enough to contend with and [[avoid the extra chore]]?<img src="images/passages/take hannahs advice.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Winter view of the Cathedral">
A quick check on your phone reveals a whole host of presentation tips on the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ website so you make a note to skim-read them on your to-do list.
You step outside for some cold, fresh air.
It is snowing again heavily and yet you have a full afternoon of lectures to get to, walking between various buildings. You have a feeling your shoes are going to be a lot heavier by the end of the day. The campus no longer displays any of its trademark green spaces and now matches the colour of the cloud ridden sky. The view over Canterbury is postcard perfect with the cathedral poking up majestically from the chimney plumes and bustling streets.
After your last seminar you call into the library to collect a book you had reserved as part of an assignment you are researching [[before walking back to Parkwood]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<<set $SLASScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/avoid the extra chore.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Winter view of the Cathedral">
Your timetable is already full to bursting and you have other assignments to work on so the extra chore can wait for another time.
You step outside for some cold, fresh air.
It is snowing again heavily and yet you have a full afternoon of lectures to get to, walking between various buildings. You have a feeling your shoes are going to be a lot heavier by the end of the day. The campus no longer displays any of its trademark green spaces and now matches the colour of the cloud ridden sky. The view over Canterbury is postcard perfect with the cathedral poking up majestically from the chimney plumes and bustling streets.
After your last seminar you call into the library to collect a book you had reserved as part of an assignment you are researching [[before walking back to Parkwood]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/offer to take on more of his share of the task.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Book Shelves">
Maybe he really doesn't understand the topic very well. You're confident you've interpreted the task correctly and, even though it will mean more work for you, at least it means you will deliver something fit for purpose rather than getting dragged down by Gabriel's poor research.
You reluctantly agree to do more research and type up the majority of the slides if Gabriel can complete the introduction and help create the diagrams. You agree to meet again next week to decide how best to [[deliver the presentation]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/own portion of work.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students working together">
Your timetable is as full as Gabriels's and this is supposed to be group work. You advise Gabriel to seek extra help from his @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ or go and see the seminar leader if he doesn't understand the task. Gabriel shrugs his shoulders indicating his reluctance. You realise your presentation marks will unfairly suffer as a result.
Do you make an appointment to go and [[see your Academic Adviser about it]] or continue as you were, [[just doing your share of the task]]?<img src="images/passages/deliver the presentation.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Winter view of the Cathedral">
You're feeling angry with yourself for increasing your workload for Gabriel's benefit. If he's struggling he should seek help, not give extra stuff to you. But the decision has been made and now you'll need to find some extra resources and time from somewhere. There goes your Netflix evening with Saffa.
You step outside for some cold, fresh air.
It is snowing again heavily and yet you have a full afternoon of lectures to get to, walking between various buildings. Your shoes are going to be a lot heavier by the end of the day. The campus no longer displays any of its trademark green spaces and now matches the colour of the cloud ridden sky. The view over Canterbury is postcard perfect with the cathedral poking up majestically from the chimney plumes and bustling streets.
After your last seminar you call into the library to collect a book you had reserved as part of an assignment you are researching as well as an extra tome for the joint presentation work [[before walking back to Parkwood|walking back to Parkwood3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/see your academic adviser about it.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
Your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ has their drop-in hour today. Prof. Mark Partridge is, once more, happily encased in his paper mountain habitat. He waves you in and gestures to a camouflaged chair. It doesn't take long to explain the situation and Mark says this is surprisingly common. Whilst some students do eventually produce good group work, others do not. He senses your frustration and asks if you'd like to swap groups. As this may involve yet more work to re-design your research at this late stage you decline the offer. Mark promises to inform the seminar leader of the situation and advises you deliver only your share of the work and not feel tempted to shoulder the whole task yourself. Even if this results in a poorer presentation overall, Gabriels involvement, or lack of it, will be taken into consideration.
Your relief is clear and you leave, [[thanking Mark for his time|outside]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/just doing your share of the task.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Stressed Student">
You feel cheated that you're only going to be able to deliver half a presentation, unless Gabriel actually starts doing some of his share of the work before next week. You suspect that will be unlikely and make an effort to be as thorough with your half as possible. You slam your notebook shut to vent your annoyance.
You angrily step [[outside]] for some cold, fresh air.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/outside.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Winter view of the Cathedral">
It is snowing again heavily and yet you have a full afternoon of lectures to get to, walking between various buildings. Your shoes are going to be a lot heavier by the end of the day. The campus no longer displays any of its trademark green spaces and now matches the colour of the cloud ridden sky. The view over Canterbury is postcard perfect with the cathedral poking up majestically from the chimney plumes and bustling streets.
After your last seminar you call into the library to collect a book you had reserved as part of an assignment you are researching before [[walking back to Parkwood|walking back to Parkwood2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/parkwood walk.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Walking back to Parkwood">
When you get back Tiz is talking quickly, with fingers on her temples, to Zak and Saffa in the kitchen. She looks pale and worried. After the full-blown snowball fight that ensued after you left for lectures that morning, Chimmy decided to reclaim the shoes hanging from the tree but misjudged the icy branches and fell. Tiz said it was clear from the Toblerone shapes protruding from his shin that he had broken his leg and Chimmy quickly went into shock. Tiz had run back to the flat and called Campus Security on her SafeZone phone app. They in turn called an ambulance which was driven directly to the flats in convoy behind the campus security car.
Tiz shakily described Chimmy crying with pain as he was transferred into the ambulance. His school was notified and Chimmy called his family from A&E at the hospital.
This calls for your now famous 5 minute chocolate mug cake thanks to microwave technology. It has a pocket of molten Nutella in the middle which is guaranteed to put a smile on anyone's face, surely? With trembling fingers, Tiz shares the cake out and gradually calms down.
Eventually you [[retreat to your room|retreat to your room3]] to put the finishing flourishes on your presentation work.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/parkwood walk.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Walking back to Parkwood">
When you get back Tiz is talking quickly, with fingers on her temples, to Zak and Saffa in the kitchen. She looks pale and worried. After the full-blown snowball fight that ensued after you left for lectures that morning, Chimmy decided to reclaim the shoes hanging from the tree but misjudged the icy branches and fell. Tiz said it was clear from the Toblerone shapes protruding from his shin that he had broken his leg and Chimmy quickly went into shock. Tiz had run back to the flat and called Campus Security on her SafeZone phone app. They in turn called an ambulance which was driven directly to the flats in convoy behind the campus security car.
Tiz shakily described Chimmy crying with pain as he was transferred into the ambulance. His school was notified and Chimmy called his family from A&E at the hospital.
You momentarily forget your frustration with Gabriel and start to bake your now famous 5 minute chocolate mug cake thanks to microwave technology. It has a pocket of molten Nutella in the middle which is guaranteed to put a smile on anyone's face, surely? With trembling fingers, Tiz shares the cake out and gradually calms down.
Eventually you [[retreat to your room|retreat to your room]] to continue working on your presentation.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/parkwood walk.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Walking back to Parkwood">
When you get back Tiz is talking quickly, with fingers on her temples, to Zak and Saffa in the kitchen. She looks pale and worried. After the full-blown snowball fight that ensued after you left for lectures that morning, Chimmy decided to reclaim the shoes hanging from the tree but misjudged the icy branches and fell. Tiz said it was clear from the Toblerone shapes protruding from his shin that he had broken his leg and Chimmy quickly went into shock. Tiz had run back to the flat and called Campus Security on her SafeZone phone app. They in turn called an ambulance which was driven directly to the flats in convoy behind the campus security car.
Tiz shakily described Chimmy crying with pain as he was transferred into the ambulance. Chimmy's school was notified and Chimmy called his family from A&E at the hospital.
You momentarily forget your frustration with Gabriel and start to bake your now famous 5 minute chocolate mug cake thanks to microwave technology. It has a pocket of molten Nutella in the middle which is guaranteed to put a smile on anyone's face, surely? With trembling fingers, Tiz shares the cake out and gradually calms down.
Eventually you [[retreat to your room|retreat to your room2]] to start the extra research you have now agreed to do for your presentation.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/retreat to your room 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Broken Leg">
Two days later Chimmy appears on crutches at the door, followed by his Dad. His right trouser leg is rolled up to proudly reveal a bright orange plastered leg, sprinkled with green glitter. An unusual fashion statement. It looks like Chimmy has a valid excuse for staying in his room more than normal. Using crutches in the snow is going to be out of the question.
Chimmy's Dad makes sure that he gets to his room OK and loads several ready meals onto his fridge shelf. He asks Chimmy again if he would prefer to stay at home a bit longer but Chimmy reassures him that he will be fine at the flat. His Dad finishes his mug of coffee and leaves.
Chimmy asks if you wouldn't mind helping him rustle up some beans on toast before you go back to your room. You suddenly remember what you have done with all his tins in his cupboard before his accident! Do you [[apologise and say you are too busy to help|too busy to help3]] and exit the kitchen quickly or [[stay and help so you can witness Chimmy's reaction|Chimmy's reaction3]]?
<img src="images/passages/retreat to your room 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Broken Leg">
Two days later Chimmy appears on crutches at the door, followed by his Dad. His right trouser leg is rolled up to proudly reveal a bright orange plastered leg, sprinkled with green glitter. An unusual fashion statement. It looks like Chimmy has a valid excuse for staying in his room more than normal as using crutches in the snow is going to be out of the question.
Chimmy's Dad makes sure that he gets to his room OK and loads several ready meals onto his fridge shelf. He asks Chimmy again if he would prefer to stay at home a bit longer but Chimmy reassures him that he will be fine at the flat. His Dad finishes his mug of coffee and leaves.
Chimmy asks if you wouldn't mind helping him rustle up some beans on toast before you go back to your room. You suddenly remember what you have done with all his tins in his cupboard before his accident! Do you [[apologise and say you are too busy to help|too busy to help2]] and exit the kitchen quickly or [[stay and help so you can witness Chimmy's reaction|Chimmy's reaction2]]?
<img src="images/passages/retreat to your room 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Broken Leg">
Two days later Chimmy appears on crutches at the door, followed by his Dad. His right trouser leg is rolled up to proudly reveal a bright orange plastered leg, sprinkled with green glitter. An unusual fashion statement. It looks like Chimmy has a valid excuse for staying in his room more than normal. Using crutches in the snow is going to be out of the question.
Chimmy's Dad makes sure that he gets to his room OK and loads several ready meals onto his fridge shelf. He asks Chimmy again if he would prefer to stay at home a bit longer but Chimmy reassures him that he will be fine at the flat. His Dad finishes his mug of coffee and leaves.
Chimmy asks if you wouldn't mind helping him rustle up some beans on toast before you go back to your room. You suddenly remember what you have done with all his tins in his cupboard before his accident! Do you [[apologise and say you are too busy to help]] and exit the kitchen quickly or [[stay and help so you can witness Chimmy's reaction]]?
<img src="images/passages/finish off presentation 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Microphone">
It has taken you until 3am, but the presentation is a self-proclaimed work of art. You discovered some really helpful podcasts and some TED talks to refer to, taking care not to plagiarise (that's got to be worth a few extra bonus points?). After a few meagre hours of sleep your alarm rudely forces you out of your super warm bed.
Chimmy is in the kitchen with his leg propped on a chair. Tiz is making him a 3 course breakfast and generally fussing around him. Zak offers to stay with him at home as he has no intention of going to any of his timetabled events today. Chimmy has a concession from his school meaning he has approval to be absent.
Your head seems to be filled with marshmallow so all you can manage is a bowl of dried rice crispies. They're tricky to eat without milk, dropping over the table and floor and sticking to your mouth. Tiz says you look off-colour and forces a cup of coffee on you [[before you leave]].<img src="images/passages/finish off presentation 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Microphone">
It has taken you until 3am, but the presentation is a self-proclaimed work of art. You discovered some really helpful podcasts and some TED talks to refer to, taking care not to plagiarise (that's got to be worth a few extra bonus points?). After a few meagre hours of sleep your alarm rudely forces you out of your super-warm bed.
Chimmy is in the kitchen with his leg propped on a chair. Tiz is making him a 3 course breakfast and generally fussing around him. Zak offers to stay with him at home as he has no intention of going to any of his timetabled events today. Chimmy has a concession from his school meaning he has approval to be absent.
Your head seems to be filled with marshmallow so all you can manage is a bowl of dried rice crispies. They're tricky to eat without milk, dropping over the table and floor and sticking to your mouth. Tiz says you look off-colour and forces a cup of coffee on you [[before you leave|leave2]].<img src="images/passages/before you leave_before you leave2_leave2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Pharmacy">
As the day progresses your head feels more like a soup sandwich and your nose has become a geyser. You get through the day and call into the pharmacy on your way back home to buy up any cold rememdy related supplies.
Chimmy is still in the kitchen, doing some reading and tapping out some notes. You can hear Zak in lethal online combat in his room.
In your room you type a message to your lecturers and school @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ saying that you won't be well enough to go in tomorrow. Within minutes the school's support coordinator, Philippa, replies to let you know you can submit a self-certification form via their absence system if you haven't got a doctor's note so your absence is recorded correctly. You submit your form as requested and [[retreat to bed]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/retreat to bed 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Soup">
Some hours later Tiz knocks at the door, smiles ptifully at you and brings in a mug of instant veggie soup and a cup of tea. You can't taste a thing but it's the [[best thing you've had all day]].<img src="images/passages/best thing youve had all day 123.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Book Deposit">
In the end you spend 2 days in bed but managed to binge watch all your lectures on Kent Player and get some pretty decent notes. You also finished skim reading a book due back in today and are ready for your presentation.
It's not the finest delivery and your nerves are given away by the quivering stack of notes you are holding. But your research and arguments are sound, providing a good balance review using reputable sources. Gabriel hardly says a word and stands next to you, as useful as chop sticks in space. Dr Tomas Quelin takes notes throughout and you detect some positive vibes as he nods periodically.
The ordeal is soon over and you even masterfully manage the Q&A session afterwards. You and Gabriel go back to your seats and Gabriel remains in shameful silence. At the end of the session you tell Gabriel how much extra work that took you and that was the last non-joint joint presentation that you're willing to do. Gabriel shrugs and mutters that he'll make it up to you. You part ways and stomp over to Create cafe for a [[well earned cake]]. You quickly drop off your book at the Templeman Library 24 hour drop off point en route.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/well earned cake.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Cupcakes">
Hmmm, no chocolate cake left. [[Carrot cake]] or [[lemon drizzle]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/before you leave_before you leave2_leave2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Pharmacy">
As the day progresses your head feels more like a soup sandwich and your nose has become a geyser. You get through the day and call into the pharmacy on your way back home to buy up any cold rememdy related supplies.
Chimmy is still in the kitchen, doing some reading and tapping out some notes. You can hear Zak in lethal online combat in his room.
In your room you type a message to your lecturers and school @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ saying that you won't be well enough to go in tomorrow. Within minutes the school's support coordinator, Philippa, replies to let you know you can submit a self-certification form via their absence system if you haven't got a doctor's note so your absence is recorded correctly. You submit your form as requested and [[retreat to bed|retreat to bed2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/retreat to bed 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Soup">
Some hours later Tiz knocks at the door, smiles pitifully at you and brings in a mug of instant veggie soup and a cup of tea. You can't taste a thing but it's the [[best thing you've had all day|best thing you've had all day2]].<img src="images/passages/best thing youve had all day 123.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Book Deposit">
In the end you spend 2 days in bed but managed to binge watch all your lectures on Kent Player and get some pretty decent notes. You also finished skim reading a book due back in today and are ready for your presentation.
It's not the finest delivery and your nerves are given away by the quivering stack of notes you are holding. But your research and arguments are sound, providing a good balance review using reputable sources. Dr Tomas Quelin takes notes throughout and you detect some positive vibes as he nods periodically. After your delivery you announce that you're handing the second part over to Gabriel. Gabriel stands rigid with fear, hardly able to say a word. Dr Tomas asks him to start by describing his research but it is clear there has been no effort on his part. To avoid prolonging the pain Dr Tomas asks you both to return to your seats.
Gabriel remains in shameful silence. At the end of the session you tell Gabriel how much work that took you and that was the last non-joint joint presentation that you're willing to do. You remind him of the plethora of support available if he doesn't understand the task properly. Gabriel shrugs and mutters that he had thought that was what friends were for. You part ways and stomp over to Create cafe for a [[well earned cake]]. You quickly drop off your book at the Templeman Library 24 hour drop off point en route.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/finish off presentation 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Microphone">
It has taken you until 1am, but the presentation is a self-proclaimed work of art. You discovered some really helpful podcasts and some TED talks to refer to, taking care not to plagiarise, thanks to the discovery of Google Scholar. After a restless sleep, your alarm rudely forces you out of your super-warm bed.
Chimmy is in the kitchen with his leg propped on a chair. Tiz is making him a 3 course breakfast and generally fussing around him. Zak offers to stay with him at home as he has no intention of going to any of his timetabled events today. Chimmy has a concession from his school meaning he has approval to be absent.
Your head seems to be filled with marshmallow so all you can manage is a bowl of dried rice crispies. They're tricky to eat without milk, dropping over the table and floor and sticking to your mouth. Tiz says you look off-colour and forces a cup of coffee on you [[before you leave|before you leave2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/before you leave_before you leave2_leave2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Pharmacy">
As the day progresses your head feels more like a soup sandwich and your nose has become a geyser. You get through the day and call into the pharmacy on your way back home to buy up any cold rememdy related supplies.
Chimmy is still in the kitchen, doing some reading and tapping out some notes. You can hear Zak in lethal online combat in his room.
In your room you type a message to your lecturers and school @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ saying that you won't be well enough to go in tomorrow. Within minutes the school's support coordinator, Philippa, replies to let you know you can submit a self-certification form via their absence system if you haven't got a doctor's note, so your absence is recorded correctly. You submit your form as requested and [[retreat to bed|retreat to bed3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/retreat to bed 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Soup">
Some hours later Tiz knocks at the door, smiles pitifully at you and brings in a mug of instant veggie soup and a cup of tea. You can't taste a thing but it's the [[best thing you've had all day|all day2]].
<img src="images/passages/best thing youve had all day 123.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Book Deposit">
In the end you spend 2 days in bed but managed to binge watch all your lectures on Kent Player and get some pretty decent notes. You also finished skim reading a book due back in today and are ready for your presentation.
You stand with your group at the front of the room, armed with a stack of notes which are mildly shaking in your hand. Hannah and Marta look like they were born to present and are eager to get started. As agreed, you each pitch your research and arguments, providing a good balanced review using reputable sources. It all knits together beautifully and you're proud of the results. Dr Tomas Quelin takes notes throughout and you detect some positive vibes as he nods periodically.
The presentation is soon over and Brian and James even masterfully manage the Q&A session afterwards. At the end of the seminar Bob suggests you all go to Create cafe for a [[well earned cake]]. You quickly drop off your book at the Templeman Library 24 hour drop off point en route.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/carrot cake.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Carrot Cake">
Wow, if all your 5-a-day tasted this good there would be no problems. Your wodge of cake is gone in less than half a minute. It must have been a tiny slice.
Satisifed, you attend your last lecture for the day then [[go back to the flat]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/lemon drizzle.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lemon Drizzle Cake">
Wow, it's a tangy, sticky plate of pleasure. Your wodge of cake is gone in less than half a minute. It must have been a tiny slice.
Satisifed, you attend your last lecture of the day then [[go back to the flat]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/beat a hasty retreat.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Working on a Laptop">
You don't envy Zak's position but it is all self-inflicted. You switch on your laptop. There's a number of new emails from your school coordinators. There's a reminder to say that you haven't checked your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. Do you [[click on the link]] to have a look or [[leave it for now]], you have had enough for one day.<img src="images/passages/click on the link.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark vs Attendance Graph">
The link takes you directly to a web page displaying your own personalised @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ report. You're surprised at the level of detail it provides. It colourfully depicts your progress in all the modules you're taking this year and compares that with attendance too. You've only missed a couple of days due to illness so you're well into the 'good zone'.
Your eye is drawn to the graphic comparing marks between each modules and it is apparent that one module in particular has consistently lower marks. You'd been vaguely aware of this but seeing it on a graph makes it stand out. You find that module really difficult, there's a lot of statistics and maths involved. The @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ report suggests going to see your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ to discuss its content so you add a note to your calendar to go and see Prof. Mark during his [[next drop-in hour]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/next drop in hour_leave it for now.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Success Project">
You're sure if there was a problem with your progress then you'd receive some sort of other school communication, like Zak did, and you feel you did pretty well in your presentation today.
There's a few other school notices and one catches your eye for an 'Inspirational Speaker' event. A visiting academic from an international university is coming to visit and give a lecture on one of your topic areas. You're sure you have already read one of her books and referenced it in an assignment.
There's a link to book a place in the lecture. Do you [[book yourself a place|book a place 2]] or [[delete the email|delete email2]] as that is your one 'free' afternoon next week?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/next drop in hour_leave it for now.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Success Project">
You close the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ and sift through the other emails from your school coordinator. One of the emails mentions a familiar name in the subject header. It is regarding a forthcoming 'Inspirational Speaker' event. A visiting academic from an international university is coming to visit and give a lecture on one of your topic areas. You're sure you have already read one of her books and referenced it in an assignment.
There's a link to book a place in the lecture. Do you [[book yourself a place]] or [[delete the email]] as that is your one 'free' afternoon next week.<img src="images/passages/book yourself a place_delete the email.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge">
Right, all booked, and totally free. It all counts as research and there may be some information nuggets in there you can use in a later $assignmentType.
The following week you notice how much warmer it is suddenly getting with the pointed leaves of bulbs bravely pushing up through the soil. You're glad that winter is behind you, it plays havoc with your skin!
As planned, you go to Prof. Marks's drop-in hour and ask to have a quick chat about your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. He displays your report on his screen, just visible over the mound of paper in front of it. He congratulates you for checking your report, not everyone does, as it is a real opportunity to spot things that may otherwise go unnoticed. He agrees about your statistical module and makes a number of suggestions. @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ run a maths and statistics clinic every Wednesday that you can pop along to and Mark also shows you a whole host of self-help resources that you hadn't spotted under the module listing in @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. You decide you'll look at the self-help documents first. Mark continues to discuss the rest of the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ with you and overall it was great feedback and confirms you are on track for a good end of year grade.
You leave Mark's office [[feeling rightfully smug]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/book yourself a place_delete the email.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge">
Wednesday afternoon are normally reserved for playing sport or attending a society event? Admittedly your archery club stopped running at the end of the last term, but still.
The following week you notice how much warmer it is suddenly getting with the pointed leaves of bulbs bravely pushing up through the soil. You're glad the wintery weather is behind you, it plays havoc with your skin!
As planned, you go to Prof. Marks's drop-in hour and ask to have a quick chat about your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. He displays your report on his screen, just visible over the mound of paper in front of it. He congratulates you for checking your report, not everyone does, as it is a real opportunity to spot things that may otherwise go unnoticed. He agrees about your statistical module and makes a number of suggestions. @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ run a maths and statistics clinic every Wednesday that you can pop along to and Mark also shows you a whole host of self-help resources that you hadn't spotted under the module listing in @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. You decide you'll look at the self-help documents first. Mark continues to discuss the rest of the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ with you and overall it was great feedback and confirms you are on track for a good end of year grade.
You leave feeling [[pleased with yourself]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/book a place2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Success!">
Right, all booked, and totally free. It all counts as research and there may be some real information nuggets in there you can use in a later $assignmentType.
The day of the [[speaker event]] arrives.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/delete email2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Daffodils">
Wednesday afternoon are normally reserved for playing sport or attending a society event? Admittedly your archery club stopped running at the end of the last term, but still.
The following week you notice how much warmer it is suddenly getting with the pointed leaves of bulbs bravely pushing up through the soil. You're glad the winter weather is behind you, [[it plays havoc with your skin|pleased with yourself]]!
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/feeling rightfully smug_speaker event.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Lecture Theatre">
By the time the Inspirational Speaker event comes around the whole campus is looking decidedly more spring-like. The walk from the house no longer requires Arctic gear and you even brave a thinner jacket.
The lecture theatre in Keynes college is absolutely packed which is hardly surprising as the event posters have been on every foyer plasma screen. The speaker has been invited by the Student Success Project at the university. Sahar, from the project, introduces the speaker and provides some context about their background and research. Finally, Professor Ellen Drover from Dowiefields University, USA begins her presentation. With one side of her head shaved and the other with bright red flowing locks, she wasn't the academic you had originally visualised. The talk is excellent and doesn't disappoint. You've jotted some fantastic quotes as well as resources Prof. Ellen referenced.
At the end, you join the fan mob gathered around Prof. Ellen and Sahar. You have her book in your hand and wonder if it is too geeky to ask for it to be signed. Others are doing the same and get their books signed before you. Eventually, [[it is your turn]].<img src="images/passages/it is your turn.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Writing">
There's only you and one other student left. You ask Prof. Ellen to sign the book and enthusiastically start talking about one of her points. She seems delighted you have raised such a question and offers to discuss it further with you. At this point Sahar points out that she and Prof. Ellen will be going for a meal later and they would love to have some keen students join them. Do you [[eagerly accept the dinner offer]] or [[thank Sahar and decline]] saying that you're already booked for this evening? <!-- Container for the image gallery -->\
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Sahar and Prof. Ellen take you and the other student, Alex, to the Cafe des Amis restaurant in Canterbury. You love Mexican food so your stomach is as excited as your brain. Whilst you wait for the fajitas and burritos to arrive you watch the traffic swarm steadily through the impressive Westgate Towers and observe the ducks busily swim up and down the Stour River, lined either side by a ribbon of bright red tulips. You needn't have worried about conversation being thin on the ground, it flows as freely as the Mexican lagers! You're fascinated by how Prof. Ellen found her way into academia, which hadn't been planned at all. In fact she had started off in a totally different industry as a technical illustrator. You're as captivated by her research as she is and all 4 of you chat throughout the meal about it. She hands you and Alex her business card and says if you need further research support you only have to ask.
You share a taxi with Alex back to campus whilst Prof. Ellen and Sahar head back to their respective domains.
You promise yourself to attend [[more Inspirational Speaker events|pleased with yourself]] now you fully understand their value.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/thank sahar and decline.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Lecture Theatre">
You loved the talk but you're not sure you could manage to 'talk shop' all evening, even if free food is available. Surely there will be other opportunities in the future?
You leave the lecture theatre feeling [[pleased with yourself]] that you have expanded your horizons.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/feeling rightfully smug_speaker event.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Lecture Theatre">
By the time the Inspirational Speaker event comes around the whole campus is looking decidedly more spring-like. The walk from the house no longer requires Arctic gear and you even brave a thinner jacket.
The lecture theatre in Keynes college is absolutely packed which is hardly surprising as the event posters have been on every foyer plasma screen. The speaker has been invited by the Student Success Project at the university. Sahar, from the project, introduces the speaker and provides some context about their background and research. Finally, Professor Ellen Drover from Dowiefields University, USA begins her presentation. With one side of her head shaved and the other with bright red flowing locks, she wasn't the academic you had originally visualised. The talk is excellent and doesn't disappoint. You've jotted some fantastic quotes as well as resources Prof. Ellen referenced.
At the end, you join the fan mob gathered around Prof. Ellen and Sahar. You have her book in your hand and wonder if it is too geeky to ask for it to be signed. Others are doing the same and get their books signed before you. Eventually, [[it is your turn]].<img src="images/passages/pleased with yourself.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Bluebell Woods">
Over the next few weeks the campus undergoes a dramatic transformation. You're not particularly green fingered but even you are astounded by the carpets of bluebells that are everywhere.
Tiz, ever organised, announces that everyone in the house needs to start thinking about accommodation for the next academic year as Parkwood students tend to move out after 1 year. You hadn't given it much thought until now. You consider the option of living with people from your course but actually you feel at home with Tiz, Chimmy, Saffa and Zak. You say you'd like to spend the next year living with them. Chimmy, who is now out of his leg plaster and hobbling around unaided, signs the group up for [[viewing some student lets]].<img src="images/passages/viewing some student lets.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Home Stamp Web Page">
You all go to view several 5-bedroomed properties in Canterbury listed on Kent Union's Home Stamp website. Every house you visit always seems to contain one bedroom the size of an eyebrow.
After a couple of days Zak decides he will go and join a smaller group from other like-minded all-night gamers on his course in a different shared house instead. His senior tutor has already warned him that he won't make it to stage 2 if he doesn't improve his levels of attendance, but you admire his optimism.
It doesn't take long before you find a suitable 4 bedroom house within walking distance of Canterbury and the campus so no need to buy bus passes. The students currently living there gave it a firm thumbs up saying the landlord was particularly helpful. You ask the Student Union Advice Centre to check the tenancy agreement before you all sign it.
Phew, it's quite overwhelming to think you've [[just rented your first house]]!
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/just rented your first house.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Deep in thought">
As the end of the spring term draws near the usual flurry of $assignmentType deadlines loom. You've managed to stay on track with your note keeping and reading, sometimes even dipping into resources which are not even on your reading list (just for fun).
You've got a number of <<print $assignmentType>>s to submit before the Easter break. Which ones do you make sure you've finished first? Do you use Bob's principle of [[weighted scoring]] to define your submission timetable, do you do the <<print $assignmentType>>s you like the most first and [[leave the worst till last]] or work through them alphabetically and [[apply staggered deadlines using the ASK tool]]?
<img src="images/passages/weighted scoring.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Laptop Notes">
Bob's weighted scoring method involves working out which $assignmentType carries the most weight within your modules and working on those with the higher weighting first. Some of your modules are worth 30 credits and others only 15. Some of the <<print $assignmentType>>s within your modules are worth 20% and others are worth 50%. By identifying the highest percentage <<print $assignmentType>>s in the 30 credit modules first, and rank down to the lowest percentage <<print $assignmentType>>s in the 15 credit modules you'll be able to easily identify where you need to spend most of your time to maximise your overall grade. Afterall, it doesn't make sense to spend most of your time on something that is not worth many points.
You rank your 4 <<print $assignmentType>>s in order and assign some time on your wall calendar to make sure it is proportional to their value whilst still being delivered on time.
Now, feeling clearly focused you [[start work on your assignments]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave the worst till last.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Stress/Relax Sign">
Words flow better when you're writing about something you enjoy, right? Sure, you're making life tough on yourself towards the deadline date by saving the dreaded $assignmentType until last but that looming deadline will concentrate your mind. You rank your 4 <<print $assignmentType>>s in order of preference and evenly allocate some time to each on your calendar to make sure you don't miss the deadline.
Now, feeling clearly focused you [[start work on your assignments]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/apply staggered deadlines using the ASK tool.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="ASK Tool">
You list your <<print $assignmentType>>s in module alphabetical order then log onto Kent's '@@.serviceLink;<<link "Assignment Survival Kit">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@' (ASK) to stagger the deadlines. You calculate each $assignmentType will require a week of write-up effort so you put in weekly deadlines for each $assignmentType in the 4 weeks prior to the actual submission date. The @@.serviceLink;<<link "ASK Tool">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ then cleverly calculates a timescale of tasks required for each $assignmentType which you transfer onto your calendar to tick off as you go along.
Now, feeling clearly focused, you [[start work on your assignments]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/start work on your assignments.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Working on an assignment">
The trick is to write a bit each day as well as re-reading what you wrote the previous day with a fresh pair of eyes. It's not long before you are ticking off the tasks and applying the bibliography like a pro using the @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ tool from the library.
The other flatmates are similarly focused on end of term assignments (although Zak can still be heard gaming in the twilight hours). Saffa is clearly feeling the strain and is visiting her @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ officer on a weekly basis again. She has been referred to the central @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support and Wellbeing Centre">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>> too for additional counselling. You suspect that the impending exam period may be a trigger point for her increasing anxiety levels. She has already been granted an extension for one of her pieces of work as a result.
For a while you are all like ships in the night, not sharing meals or leisure time, trying to [[get your work done]].
<img src="images/passages/get your work done.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Take Away">
By deadline day you're exhausted but that advanced planning paid off and all 4 <<print $assignmentType>>s are finished. You re-read each one before submitting them on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Turnitin">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ well before the 3pm deadline. You walk into the kitchen. Tiz is reassuring Saffa that her French citations are correct. Chimmy is still working on his final lab report. Zak's voice can be regularly heard shouting expletives as his keyboard undergoes some intense abuse. Not one for planning, Zak has left all his assignment work until this final week but he reckons he works best under pressure and he will get everything submitted on time.
By 3pm everyone has submitted their work apart from Zak who has one stuck in the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Turnitin">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ queue and another still to submit (although apparently complete). He is pacing between his screen in his room and the food cupboard in the kitchen, taking a solitary breadstick each time he visits the cupboard. The breadsticks run out long before his last piece of work is finally accepted by Turnitin. It is done.
To celebrate, you all agree to order take-away curry, just to see the poor sweaty delivery guy cycle up St. Dunstan's hill laden with steaming balti. [[It's a great way to end the term]].<img src="images/passages/its a great way to end the term.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Campus Rabbit">
The next 4 weeks pass in a blur. You had fully intended to revise like mad for the impending exams after the Easter break but in the end catching up with friends and family took the lion's share of your time.
You return to campus ready for the final term of your first year at University. It's going to be a short one as all your exams are finished by the end of May. Tiz asks how many Easter eggs each of you have eaten over the last 4 weeks. You're a clear winner at a trillion, with a waist measurement to confirm the investment.
Saffa is evidently very unhappy about the impending exams as despite only having 2 exams to get through, most of her modules are coursework based. Zak is totally unbothered by his exams saying that they don't count towards his degree anyway so there's not an incentive. Chimmy reminds him that he won't be able to proceed to stage 2 if he doesn't pass the exams plus if he is looking to do a year in industry or abroad at the end of stage 2 then end of stage 1 grades are really important. Zak wants to do the year in industry and you wonder if that will be enough for him to knuckle down and do some revision.
You've got 2 weeks until your first exam. Do you [[create a revision strategy]] to maximise these last few days or continue to [[dedicate time each day to reading your notes]]?
<img src="images/passages/create a revision strategy.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Studying">
In addition to the in-class revision sessions that had been put on at the end of last term, your school has also scheduled some additional revision events. You add these to your calendar to make sure you don't miss them. In addition, SLAS are running an 'Effective revision and exam techniques' workshop and then there's always the advice from an Academic Peer Mentor, someone who last year sat the exams you're about to take.
Time is limited so do you just [[stick to your school revision session]], do your [[school session plus a SLAS workshop]], or your [[school session plus see your Academic Peer Mentor]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/dedicate time each day to reading your notes.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
You colour code each day for a different bit of revision and do your best to stick to it. It's quite lonely and monotonous. All that reading makes you sleepy so every now and then you get up and change the location you are reading in, eventually opting to move between the quiet study area in the library, the Parkwood study hub and your room.
Eventually, the day of your [[first exam draws near|bolt-holes1]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/stick to your school revision session.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Lecture Theatre">
This is an important event as it will be really tailored to the modules you are taking. Your school wants you to achieve as good a mark as possble as it also reflects on their ability to teach. The event is at the [[start of the week]] and will give a good basis for all subsequent revision that needs to be done.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/school session plus a slas workshop.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="School Session and SLAS Workshop">
It is important to attend your school event as it will be really tailored to the modules you are taking. Your school wants you to achieve as good a mark as possble as it also reflects on their ability to teach. In addition, it is never too late to start picking up new tactics and tips from those in the University business and a @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ workshop is just two hours out of your time. In return you get tips for effective use of memory and concentration during revision and bonus tactics for writing quickly under exam conditions. This course will pay immediate dividends!
Both the school revision session and the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ workshop are next week and will provide an excellent basis for [[all subsequent revision]] that needs to be done.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<<set $SLASScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/school session plus your academic peer mentor.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="School Session and Academic Peer Mentor">
It is important to attend your school event as it will be really tailored to the modules you are taking. Your school wants you to achieve as good a mark as possble as it also reflects on their ability to teach. In addition, it is never too late to start picking up new exam and revision tips from those who have trodden your path before you. No academic will be able to provide the insight of an actual student.
You drop your Academic Peer Mentor, Dave, a quick email asking if he can meet you this week to discuss tactics. After a short delay Dave responds with a date early next week, over a latte, in the Gulbenkian cafe.
The school revision session is also next week and will provide an excellent basis for all [[subsequent revision]] that needs to be done.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/start of the week.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Origins Bar">
The school revision session was actually several mini-sessions covering all the core modules for stage 1 within your school. The exam process was explained (much like taking GCSE's or A-Levels) and the format for each paper is clearly explained (essay, multiple choice etc). It all sounded very straightforward and there were no surprises over the main topic areas to revise. Bob, Brian and Hannah agree to meet for lunch at Origin's Bar and Grill at lunch time to discuss the session and ask if you'd like to join them.
Do you decide to [[forgo the lunch invite]] in favour of spending more time revising or decide that it would be good to break up the day and [[agree to meet them later at Origin's]]?
<img src="images/passages/an afternoon of revision.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Library Cafe">
The Cornell notes system is making the revision process so much easier. Armed with key aspects to revise, you carefully read those areas of your notes and access any of the library resources to bump up your knowledge where your notes lacked detail. By lunch time have almost completed the notes for your smallest module.
You allow yourself a 5 minute window to go down to the Library cafe and order a toasted teacake and a double espresso. [[The revision resumes|bolt-holes1]], making the most of the carb and caffeine fix.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/all subsequent revision_subsequent revision.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Origins Bar">
The school revision session was actually several mini-sessions covering all the core modules for stage 1 within your school. You spot Bob, Hannah and Brian there so you make a bee-line for them. It's no surprise that Gabriel is nowhere to be seen.
The exam process was explained (much like taking GCSE's or A-Levels) and you are made aware of the format for each paper (essay, multiple choice etc). It all sounded very straightforward and there were no surprises over the main topic areas to revise so you leave the event feeling quite relieved.
Bob, Brian and Hannah agree to meet for lunch at Origin's Bar and Grill at lunch time to discuss the session and ask if you'd like to join them.
Do you decide to [[forgo the lunch invite|lunch invite2]] in favour of spending more time revising or decide that it would be good to break up the day and [[agree to meet them later at Origin's|later at Origin's2]]?<img src="images/passages/all subsequent revision_subsequent revision.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Origins Bar">
The school revision session was actually several mini-sessions covering all the core modules for stage 1 within your school. You spot Bob, Hannah and Brian there so you make a bee-line for them. It's no surprise that Gabriel is nowhere to be seen.
The exam process was explained (much like taking GCSE's or A-Levels) and you are made aware of the format for each paper (essay, multiple choice etc). It all sounded very straightforward and there were no surprises over the main topic areas to revise so you leave the event feeling quite relieved.
Bob, Brian and Hannah agree to meet for lunch at Origin's Bar and Grill at lunch time to discuss the session and ask if you'd like to join them.
Do you decide to [[forgo the lunch invite|lunch invite3]] in favour of spending more time revising or decide that it would be good to break up the day and [[agree to meet them later at Orgin's|later at Origin's3]]?
<img src="images/passages/an afternoon of revision.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Library Cafe">
The Cornell Notes system is making the revision process so much easier. Armed with key aspects to revise, you can carefully read those areas of your notes and access any of the library resources to bump up your knowledge where your notes lacked detail. By lunch time have almost completed the notes for your smallest module.
You allow yourself a 5 minute window to go down to the Library cafe and order a toasted teacake and a double espresso. [[The revision resumes|bolt-holes2]], making the most of the carb and caffeine fix.<img src="images/passages/an afternoon of revision.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Library Cafe">
The Cornell notes system is making the revision process so much easier. Armed with key aspects to revise, you can carefully read those areas of your notes and access any of the library resources to bump up your knowledge where your notes lacked detail. By lunch time have almost completed the notes for your smallest module.
You allow yourself a 5 minute window to go down to the Library cafe and order a toasted teacake and a double espresso. [[The revision resumes|bolt-holes3]], making the most of the carb and caffeine fix.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/bolt holes1.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Eliot College">
As the revision days are ticked off your calendar, you start to feel more confident and nervous in even measure. All your other flatmates have already had their first exam by the time your first exam day arrives.
It's sunny, but not too hot and you walk over to Eliot college with your water bottle, clear pencil case filled with lucky stationery and the last of your revision notes. All the students are gathered in the courtyard. You spot Gabriel standing to one side. Do you [[go and speak to him]] or sit down and [[read your notes one last time]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/bolt holes2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Lecture Theatre">
The following day you attend the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ effective revision and exam technique workshop. It is in one of the large lecture theatres in Eliot college and, not surprisingly, the room is jam-packed. You hear someone shout your name and you look over to see Chimmy waving at you. You take the empty seat next to him. He had also booked onto the workshop after you mentioned it one evening at home.
The session is run by Dr Heidi Remote. Dr Heidi doesn't break her smile for the next two hours. Quite impressive. You can't help but absorb some of her optimism that everything is going to be OK. She offers advice for staying calm, how to maximise time and performance, how to spot wasteful effort and how to stay motivated even when you're unsure how to answer a question. In a nutshell, it is utterly brilliant and a bit of a light bulb moment of how to organise your remaining revision time.
Chimmy found it equally enlightening and wishes he had advised others to attend. You walk back to Parkwood together before going to your respective rooms to put some of your [[new revision tactics to the test|bolt-holes1]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $SLASScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/bolt-holes3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Gulbenkian Cafe">
The next day, after a morning of light revision, you meet Dave, as agreed at the Gulbenkian cafe. He is already chatting to another student when you arrive and he waves you over. As the student turns around you realise it is Bob he has been chatting with. Sharp as a pin, Bob has also been picking Dave's memory about the exam process, trying to glean where best to focus her remaining revision effort. Over a frothy latte with an extra dollop of whipped cream for good luck, Dave recounts the exam procedure which matches the school revision session earlier in the week. He advises to go through the bibliography list that you constantly keep (yours is all on @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@) to memorise some key quotes from core texts that you can use for extra points in your timed <<print $assignmentType>>s.
You and Bob nod attentively. Before Dave dashes off to his next appointment he reminds you to bear in mind that some of our modules are only 15 credits whilst others are 30 so apply your revision time accordingly and that you MUST pass the core modules in order to proceed to stage 2. With that he grabs his bag and wishes you both the best of luck.
You agree to go over to Templeman library with Bob to go through some [[core text key quotes|bolt-holes1]] together.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/go and speak to him.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Revision">
Gabriel (in his lucky Tottenham football strip) gives a weak smile as you approach. He hasn't done much revision as "the first year doesn't count". You know that it does count and that you can't move to stage 2 without passing stage 1 but figure it is too late to get into that now. He looks at your notes in your hand. You confirm they're your condensed revision notes. He asks to see them, just to check it is the same as what he understands. Do you [[share your notes with him]] or [[laugh politely and say it won't do any good at this late stage]]!
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/read your notes one last time.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Reading Notes">
Good idea. Now is not the time to feel demoralised. Stay calm, read your notes one last time and remain focused.
After a short while you are all called into the exam hall to your [[designated desks]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/share your notes with him.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Cornwallis View">
You hand your notes over, hoping that he won't understand your scribble. Surely it's too late to start memorising information, dates and quotes? After a moment or two he says, yeah, he knew all of that and gives the notes back.
You don't have the chance to read the notes yourself before you are all called into the exam hall to your [[designated desks]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/designated desks.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Exam Hall">
The exam hall is large and open as you expected. There are no low level windows to look out of, so you won't be easily distracted. Your designated place is near the front against one of the walls. It feels quite cosy in an odd way. You arrange all your pens in their regimental formation and stand your water bottle with label facing you. This is going to be fine, you are ready.
Within moments you are lost in writing. The words and quotes flow like water. No nasty surprises. Timed to perfection.
After all the papers have been collected you stride out of the hall into the sunshine, beaming to yourself on a job well done. The crowd disperses and you don't even get to ask Gabriel how it went for him. You're just [[ready for your remaining exams now]].
<img src="images/passages/ready for your remaining exams now.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students outside Templeman Library">
You plough through your other exams in quick succession. Many students share their last exam with you and as you walk out into the sun filled plaza, groups of grinning students are cheering and hugging each other. Students who you don't even recognise are patting you on the back and congratulating you. Many of them are going over to Mungo's to feast on freakshakes and they ask if you want to join them. Do you accept and go with them for a [[dairy binge]] or decline and opt to walk back to your room to [[FaceTime your family]]?<img src="images/passages/dairy binge.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Path">
Too right, you can't let this moment pass without some sort of celebration. You order a 'Cheeky Freak' to satisfy your Nutella cravings. Various trays topped with obscenely gorgeous mounds of cream arrive at the table and are quickly snorted, gulped and slurped. With white moustache badges of honour the chat quickly turned to what some people will be doing over the summer. Most are going home but a couple of students have got themselves some contract work to do some research at the University. It sounds intriguing and you kick yourself for not having opportunities like that on your radar.
You're reminded of the need to get back to Parkwood to pack up your room ready to go home. You say your good-byes and good-lucks, leave Mungo's with a trail of digestive biscuit crumbs behind you and waddle [[back to your room to pack|finish quest3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/facetime your family.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Facetiming Family">
Family first. You know your mum is waiting to hear how your last exam went and to confirm your plans to travel back home. She is as relieved as you that it is all over, her nerves are shot to pieces. It takes a while for her to compute that you won't know the results for another few weeks. She confirms that Dad will be there with the car tomorrow lunch time ready to drive home for the summer. [[You can't wait|finish quest3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img class="passagebadge" src="images/quest3badge.png" height=30% width=30%>
You have earned yourself a shiny Stage 1 Completion badge!
Your first year at the University of Kent is over and you have navigated the minefield of resources, research, presentations, revision and exams. You know who you can turn to for extra help if you need it and the benefits of working collaboratively. Enjoy the long summer holidays - you will be able to check your stage 1 results online after an email notification.
You are ready for quest 4: [[Stage 2 at Kent]].
<<set $quest3Badge = true>>
<<script>>
GA.sendEvent("Quest Completion", "Player Progression", "Quest 3");
<</script>><img src="images/passages/Stage 2 at Kent.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Pretty Flower">
Your new quest is to sucessfully develop yourself as a critical thinker and complete stage 2 of your degree at Kent.
You haven't been home for the summer break very long before your phone pings with an email explaining the stage 1 results are available to view on the university results web page. You feel momentarily giddy and queasy at the thought of failing a compulsory module and having to re-sit them in August or, worse still, failing several modules and having to repeat the year.
Carefully seated, you log on to the results web-site. It takes you 3 tries just to type in your name correctly due to your shaky fingers. You click on your name and hold your breath. You just want it to say 'Proceed to Stage 2'. But it doesn't. You panic. The words appear so jumbled you can't decipher them immediately. You try again: 'Pass with Merit'. You can't believe it! That's good isn't it? You re-read the message. Sure enough not only are you good enough to move to stage 2, you aced stage 1. More than a pass and just one below a distinction.
The rest of the summer break takes on a more relaxed, positive vibe and you [[return to Kent for stage 2 at the end of September]].
<<if previous() is "Campus Choice" and visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 80>>
<<set $wellScore += 35>>
<</if>>
<<script>>
if(State.getVar('$skipped') == true)
{
GA.sendEvent("Skipped Quest", "Player Progression", "Skipped to Quest 4");
}
<</script>>
<<set $skipped = false>><img src="images/passages/return to Kent for stage 2 at the end of september.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Terraced Houses">
It seems odd to be driven to your new student house and not to Parkwood anymore. You can't wait to see everyone again. A grinning Chimmy opens the door and gestures you inside, like he's Lord of the Manor. There is quite a commotion inside with belongings slowly being removed from the hallway and taken to various rooms. The familiar voice of Tiz's mum is in the kitchen and you know that some tasty treat is probably being prepared.
Your room is huge, light and airy. At the front of the house, your two large sash-windows (with retro orange and red curtains) overlook the street and get the morning sun. There's a big, old-fashioned wardrobe, double bed, pristine white desk and decent looking chair. Your Dad puffs his way into the room and dumps the first of several boxes of belongings on your bed.
Once the car is emptied you both go into [[the large kitchen]].<img src="images/passages/the large kitchen.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Sad Excuse for A Sandwich.">
Tiz is organising all her crockery, cutlery and food into an ergonomically pleasing arangement while her mum is busy loading jam and cream onto a plate of home made scones and pouring cups of tea from the floral teapot. Saffa and both parents are sat at the long table. Saffa's Dad reaches over for another scone and her mum disapprovingly remarks that he will need to spend an extra half hour at the gym later. Her Dad rolls his eyes and carries on forcing more scone into his mouth.
You open your designated cupboard and more or less throw everything inside. This lack of organisation makes Tiz visibly twitch. You tell her you'll sort it later.
Your stomach is telling you it is lunch time and your Dad pulls out a tub of anaemic cheese sandwiches. You're not sure if he even buttered them. Do you begrudgingly [[take one of the sandwiches]] your Dad lovingly made that morning or tell him you're not that hungry and [[a cream scone will do]]? <img src="images/passages/take one of the sandwiches_a cream scone will do.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Cream Scones">
Your Dad smiles and you manage to convince him they a worthy of your approval. It takes a few gulps of tea to swill the dry bread, with stingey lack of butter, down your throat. You reward yourself with the largest scone from the plate, followed by another. There's a constant stream of chatter, sharing of exam results, work experience and holidays.
Eventually, with the parents all assured and waved off you turn to each other and fist-pump and high-five your [[new level of freedom]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/take one of the sandwiches_a cream scone will do.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Cream Scones">
Your Dad looks disappointed but you tell him at least he will have some snacks for the journey home. He mutters something about 'balanced meal' as you help yourself to the largest cream scone, and then another as he slowly chews his way through the limp sandwiches. There's a constant stream of chatter, sharing of exam results, work experience and holidays.
Eventually, with the parents all assured and waved off you turn to each other and fist-pump and high-five your [[new level of freedom]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/new level of freedom.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Timetable">
With your room unpacked and your soft toy cat Boo watching (without any eyes!) from your bed, you login to check your timetable for the new term. This time last year you were trying to work out what seminars and lectures were and how to navigate the campus. This doesn't faze you anymore and you jot down all your sessions onto your wallchart. Immediately you notice there is a seminar clash with your favourite compulsory module and another module which you just chose as an optional 'filler'.
Do you [[email the programme coordinators]] at your school to let them know about the timetable clash or just decide you will [[only attend the compulsory seminars]] and not bother with the optional ones, you can probably catch up by borrowing some notes or doing extra reading?<img src="images/passages/email the programme coordinators_only attend the compulsory seminars.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Pizza">
You know that if your attendance isn't recorded for all modules, whether optional or not, that it could result in your attendance dipping below the Academic Diligence levels that Zak fell foul of last year. Besides, the clash isn't your fault so you shouldn't bear the brunt of that. Within a couple of hours your progamme coordinator, John has responded and switched you to an alternative program of seminar times for the optional module which doesn't conflict with any other event. You sit back and look at your planned week. Pretty busy apart from Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons.
You share a take-away pizza with your house mates at dinner time and mull over what the [['Welcome back' sessions]] early next morning will bring.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/email the programme coordinators_only attend the compulsory seminars.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Pizza">
If you get called in for absences relating to the optional module you can just tell them you had no choice. You fill in your timetable poster and sit back and look at your planned week. Pretty busy apart from Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons.
You share a take-away pizza with your house mates for dinner ahead of the [['Welcome back' sessions]] early next morning.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/welcome back sessions.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Gulbenkian Theatre Lecture">
You all walk up the hill to campus together. The place is teeming with new students who have just compeleted their first week at Kent. You recall how disorientated you were. You feel for them.
Your 'Welcome Back' session is in the Gulbenkian cinema lecture theatre. You spot Bob and have a hurried catch-up. She also aced stage 1 and received a merit. Gabriel didn't fare so well and had to return to Kent during August (cancelling his trip to Ibiza) to do re-sits. He is sat the other side of the theatre, so you gather he passed.
Once more the head of school, Professor Colin Lucas (resplendent in technicolour tank top) accompanied by Jan, the school's administration manager congratulate you collectively on your stage 1 achievements and describe the path ahead. Unsurprisingly, you'll notice a step up in difficulty, with your critical thinking skills really being developed and tested this year. You'll need to make maximum use of the academic and professional service resources on offer and be in charge of your own learning. They highlight the importance of using and questioning feedback, broadening your reading sources and getting really involved in seminar discussions. It sounds daunting, but then so did stage 1 and that turned out fine.
Afterwards you all spill out into the sun-filled terrace, still chatting about summer exploits and comparing student houses. You walk over to [[Blackwells bookshop]] with Bob who is keen to grab a copy of a new core text.
<img src="images/passages/Blackwells bookshop.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Blackwells Bookshop Shelf">
The reassuring smell of freshly printed pages wafts through the bookshop and bright eye-catching stationery is on display. Bob is asking the assistant about the core text and is gestured towards the far end. The assistant also points out that second hand core texts are often sold back to the bookstore by previous students and will be on the shelves with clearly marked green stickers on their spines which are sold at a reduced price. You both visit the relevant book shelf. Sure enough several copies of the core text are present, both new and second hand. One is more dog-earred than the others but the discount is considerable. Bob grabs a copy saying this apparently is the key text for one of the major compulsory modules and she wants to buy it, even though the library has copies of it too.
Do you [[grab a pre-loved copy]] as well or decide to rely on [[using a library]] copy when you need one to save your pennies?
<img src="images/passages/mocktail.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="K-Bar">
You're in the mood to celebrate, so you order yourself a Tahitan Coffee mocktail (which will give you the caffeine hit you need right now) and Bob orders a latte and toastie combo. Piri piri chicken toastie at 10:30am? Bob lives life on the edge.
Next to the till you see a small stand displaying an advert for a part-time post at the K-Bar. Before your brain has a chance to weigh up the full cost-benefit anaylsis, you ask the bar attendant about the job. They're looking for a student to cover one afternoon and 2 evenings a week. If you're interested you'd need to go back later to speak to the manager.
Do you decide that you're definitely interested and you'll [[come back later]] to scope the manager out or [[shrug it off]] and decide it is more important to focus on your studies and not worry too much about the dwindling money?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/mocktail.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="K-Bar">
Perfect, no need to break into mocktail territory just yet. You collect your large cup of strong tea and Bob orders a latte and toastie combo. Piri piri chicken toastie at 10:30am? Bob lives life on the edge.
Next to the till you see a small stand displaying an advert for a part-time post at the K-Bar. Before your brain has a chance to weigh up the full cost-benefit anaylsis you ask the bar attendant about the job. They're looking for a student to cover one afternoon and 2 evenings a week. If you're interested you'd need to go back later to speak to the manager.
Do you decide that you're definitely interested and you'll [[come back later]] to scope the manager out or [[shrug it off]] and decide it is more important to focus on your studies and not worry too much about the dwindling money?
<img src="images/passages/grab a preloved copy_using a library.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="K-Bar">
You pick up a second copy of the book leaving the dog-earred version on the shelf for another lucky student. Good move, you won't have to race other students for the library versions or repeatedly take out the library book each time you want to use it. There's something about having your own copy that's so reassuring and you feel the information is already seeping into you by osmosis, just by owning it. You pay the cashier using the money that your Dad generously loaded onto your KentOne card (saves going to the cash machine all of 5 metres away).
You walk with Bob over to K-Bar as your first lecture is in Keynes later. Do you order a [[mocktail]] or stick with a [[regular cup of tea]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/grab a preloved copy_using a library.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="K-Bar">
No need to spend your money on something that you can access for free in the library and if it is a core text then the library will have 1 copy for every 10 students on the module. You just have to hope that when you want the book the other 9 don't want it at the same time!
You wait for Bob to pay for her book then both amble over to K-Bar as your first lecture is in Keynes later. Do you order a [[mocktail]] or stick with a [[regular cup of tea]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/Professor Mark Partridge_partridge2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
Prof. Mark, sporting his trademark combat trousers whose pockets are still fully loaded with miscellaneous bulky items, scurries up to the podium and looks over the rims of his round glasses as he addresses the theatre. He begins by describing his research area which he delivered with such passion that you feel transported back to primary school story time, hanging on the teacher's every word as the narrative unfolds. His refreshing perspective on a topic area that you are genuinely interested in brings new thoughts and ideas racing into your mind. It renews your enthusiasm for the term ahead.
Mark reminds you that, at stage 2, you're expected to formulate more of your own ideas, to branch out and find new resources, perhaps not even on the readng lists, that you can assess and evaluate. This will form the foundation of the large project that is expected of you by the end of term. He looks forward to discussing your ideas in the forthcoming seminars.
He finishes by displaying a slide advertising an event occurring at the Medway campus next week where a key speaker in this area will be presenting. Places are limited and can be booked online.
Do you [[book a place at the presentation in Medway]] or decide that it is [[too much hassle]] to work out how to get there and also you don't want to use your spare afternoon on something that might be useful when you know you've got plenty of work to do?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>>
<img src="images/passages/medway2_book a place at the presentation in Medway.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Campus Shuttle">
You look at Bob with raised eyebrows. She nods and you both immediately use your phones to book via the web address displayed on the slide. It only takes a moment and the place is free. You're not yet sure how you're going to get there (or where the Medway campus is for that matter).
Bob is one step ahead of you and queries the online student guide about Medway campus which reveals a free shuttle bus service every hour between the two campuses. Bonus. You both manage to book return tickets and immediately receive email confirmations.
The rest of the week passes quickly in a blur of new topic discussions in seminars and tutorials. You aready have some good ideas for your large project $assignmentType but they could do with some refinement. Do you go to [[Prof. Mark's next drop-in hour]] to discuss your options or [[leave it until the next seminar]] he is taking and discuss it in the presence of your peers?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/too much hassle_hassle2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Smart Watch">
There will always be other speakers visiting the campus throughout the year, you know that. This important speaker may even decide to come to Canterbury at some point. In the meantime you have an appointment with several new reading lists as long as your arm AND you're now expected to find new sources too!
The rest of the week passes quickly in a blur of new topic discussions in seminars and tutorials. You aready have some good ideas for your large project $assignmentType but they could do with some refinement. Do you go to [[Prof. Mark's next drop-in hour|drop-in2]] to discuss your options or [[leave it until the next seminar|next seminar2]] he is taking and discuss it in the presence of your peers?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/Prof Marks next drop in hour_dropin2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
As usual Prof. Mark is only too pleased to see you and congratulates you on your merit at the end of stage 1 (he knew without even checking!). He is clearly delighted at your enthusiasm for your project and quizzes you over several different options. He doesn't answer any of your questions but by the time you've finished he has equipped you to answer them yourself.
You tell him you're also going to the speaker event at Medway and he advises you to make good notes as you will hear all sorts of pointers to new authors, research and ideas.
You thank him then return back to the [[study area of the library]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it until the next seminar_next seminar2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
Prof. Mark has evidently had his 3 weetabix that morning and giving a very animated seminar delivery which, at one stage, sees him standing on one of the desks to demonstrate a point!
Discussion turns to project ideas and you take the opportunity to test the audience with your thoughts. It sparks a great deal of debate and discussion, fuelled by Marks continuous stoking of the fire. You're impressed by the response and it helps you to really formulate some alternative perspectives that you can use in your project.
Afterwards, armed with pages of rushed notes, you retreat to the [[study area of the library]] in order to write up your ideas more concisely.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/Prof Marks next drop in hour_dropin2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
As usual Prof. Mark is only too pleased to see you and congratulates you on your merit at the end of stage 1 (he knew without even checking!). He is clearly delighted at your enthusiasm for your project and quizzes you over several different options. He doesn't answer any of your questions but by the time you've finished he has equipped you to answer them yourself.
You tell him you're also going to the speaker event at Medway and he advises you to make good notes as you will hear all sorts of pointers to new authors, research and ideas.
You thank him then return back to the [[study area of the library|study area of the library2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it until the next seminar_next seminar2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
Prof. Mark has evidently had his 3 weetabix that morning and giving a very animated seminar delivery which, at one stage, sees him standing on one of the desks to demonstrate a point!
Discussion turns to project ideas and you take the opportunity to test the audience with your thoughts. It sparks a great deal of debate and discussion, fuelled by Marks continuous stoking of the fire. You're impressed by the response and it helps you to really formulate some alternative perspectives that you can use in your project.
Afterwards, armed with pages of rushed notes, you retreat to the [[study area of the library|study area of the library2]] in order to write up your ideas more concisely.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/study area of the library.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Study Area">
You've almost completed writing up your notes for the afternoon when you hear a commotion to one end of the study area, by the stair well. Within moments a man-sized version of Pikachu is running through the library, persued by a super-sized penguin and a determined looking Mario. With Pikachu eventually cornered, the penguin and Mario wrestle him to the floor and prise what appears to be a Poké ball from his grasp before running back through the study area and down the stairs. An exhausted and dejected Pikachu eventually follows.
It's just another regular day in the library and that's why you love it here.
The following week you arrange to meet Bob at the bus terminus outside Keynes to catch the [[shuttle bus to Medway]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/study area of the library.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Study Area">
You've almost completed writing up your notes for the afternoon when you hear a commotion to one end of the study area, by the stair well. Within moments a man-sized version of Pikachu is running through the library, persued by a super-sized penguin and a determined looking Mario. With Pikachu eventually cornered, the penguin and Mario wrestle him to the floor and prise what appears to be a Poké ball from his grasp before running back through the study area and down the stairs. An exhausted and dejected Pikachu eventually follows.
It's just another regular day in the library and that's why you love it here.
You walk through the parkland back down the hill [[to your student house]] in the warm Autumn sunshine.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/shuttle bus to Medway.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Medway Campus">
A large, modern Kingsferry coach is waiting at the bus stop. You show your ticket on your phone and take a seat next to Bob. You recognise others from your module also making the trip. It's a good job you booked your place as the coach is chock-full with people.
It takes less than an hour, heading down the M2 towards London, to get to the Medway campus. You find it amusing when the driver waves to his counterpart going in the opposite direction, just beyond Faversham and wondered whether they waved to each other every hour in the same place as they pass.
You finally arrive at Medway campus having made a brief pit stop at Chatham Dockyard (where they film 'Call the Midwife', must do this trip again so you can visit it later). The campus looks totally different to Canterbury and is a beautiful red brick former naval base with grand Victorian style facades and large open spaces. You easily locate the [[Pilkington building]] and find a space in the busy lecture theatre.<img src="images/passages/Pilkington building.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Medway Pilkington Building">
The speaker, Professor Bob Gerunkle, delivers his polished presentation to a packed audience, hanging on his every Americanised word. You're torn between writing everything down or just sitting and absorbing it all. You try a mixture of both. He had a way of joining up factual dots that you never even knew existed and you noted his use of 'itunes U' as a source of inspiration to investigate further.
After the talk you grab a quick drink and snack in the Student Hub before catching the shuttle bus back to Canterbury campus. It was so easy that you no longer feel apprehensive about doing a similar trip again.
Bob goes home and you walk through the parkland in the warm Autumn sunshine back [[to your student house]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/to your student house.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Green Pasta">
It's dinner time by the time you arrive and you're in no mood to cook a big meal so you reach for the economy bag of pasta twists and your emergency jar of green pesto sauce. Chimmy, Saffa and Tiz are all sat at the long table. Saffa is eating her awful mackerel salad again which not only stinks out the kitchen but you also get whiffs of it as she talks to you for several hours afterwards. Tiz and Chimmy are sharing nachos and keep looking at you and giggling. You know they're up to no good. You dish up your pasta then hunt for your fork. Your cutlery draw is empty. Chimmy is laughing like a drain and Tiz tells you to look in the top freezer drawer. Sure enough, there is all your cutlery, encased in a large block of ice. You look up at the ceiling and know you've been pranked good and proper. The ball is back in your court.
Eventually Saffa lets you use her fork (which still pongs of mackerel despite washing it several times).
After dinner you withdraw to your room. The air smells homely and is full of clean clothes drying on airers. You [[make a start on your project plan]].<img src="images/passages/make a start on your project plan.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Study Workshops">
Alongside your other timetabled events, you manage to plan, research, write and refine your project. You made good use of the 'itunes U' resource and found podcasts which led to other new discoveries that were beyond your reading list. Advice from Prof.Mark suggests you still have some development work to do in the area of academic writing to ensure you can apply critical thinking.
Mark mentioned looking at the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ writing courses on offer to see if that was something that would help expand your ideas and perfect your writing style, which is still very much in its descriptive form from your school days.
The @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ website is showing a series of 8 1-hour lunch time sessions. The course provides you with a certificate in acknowledgement of your commitment to study progress and appears on your @@.serviceLink;<<link "SDS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ record. Alternatively you can book a 1:1 appointment with a learning adviser who will assess your writing technique, discuss appropriate project structure and help you avoid plagiarism.
Do you book yourself onto the 8-session [['Writing Well' course]], drop in on the [[learning adviser lunch time clinic]] or use the feedback from Prof. Mark to [[adjust your own writing style]], after all you don't want to look like you're asking for help?<img src="images/passages/writing well course.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Learning">
This is going to be quite an investment of time but something that you can use again and again. Each hour long session flies by as Graham, the lecturer, explains different styles and throws ideas at you to try. You do your best to incorprate them in your draft project which you work on alongside the workshops. You can't make two of the workshops. You forgot about one of them and had a hot lunch date with a bowl of red Thai curry in the Dolche Vita restaurant during the other. What you missed out on analytical writing you more than made up for in spoonfuls of mouth-numbing spices and a skyscraper of flatbread.
As the deadline approaches you [[burn some midnight oil]] to make sure you do yourself justice.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/learning adviser lunch time clinic.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Careers and Employability Service">
You pop along to the lunch time clinic. They're all busy, it is assignment deadline season and advisers are very much in demand. The same happens the next day, but you did turn up late. The @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ officer recommends you book a face to face appointment with a Royal Literary Fellow to be sure of getting to see someone. It sounds very formal but you agree and get booked in.
It turns out the Fellow isn't a fellow at all but Anne Morgan, an actual author and editor who has years of experience writing for newspapers, magazines plus several of her own books. The anticipated intimidation of the situation soon dissipates and you soon relax and listen to Anne's guidance around understanding the task being set, how to pick the best articles to read and how to plan your work for maximum effect. It seems so logical but she warns you it takes a bit of practice on your part to perfect.
She suggests you come back for another appointment to go over your draft submission to check structure, clarify ideas and scan for plagiarism. Do you [[take her up on her offer]] or feel like you [[have enough advice now to go it alone]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $SLASScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/adjust your own writing style.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student working at a computer">
You decide that, as part of being independent (is that the same as being an independent learner?), you figure out how to use Mark's feedback to improve your writing. Plus there's always Google. You take the leap of faith and test out some new techniques, hoping these stabs in the dark actually bear fruit. You follow your recipe; shed loads of research, quotes, exhaustive detail of multiple perspectives, then discount them all in favour of your own opinion, a splattering of diagrams then finally topped off with an impressively long bibliography in the correct format (thank you @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@). It reads fine, but you never know what the mood of the marker will be.
As the deadline approaches you [[burn some midnight oil]] to make sure you do yourself justice.<img src="images/passages/shrug it off_come back later.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
The money would be really handy plus it is something to put on your CV and demonstrates you are resourceful and employable. You will definitely come back to K-Bar after your lecture.
You settle into one of the chesterfield sofas with Bob and compare timetables. Only two of your modules are the same as Bob's this term. She's gone for fewer, bigger 30 credit modules whereas you have chosen several 15 credit modules. You debate which is more work, more subjects or more meaty assignments. You can't agree.
Eventually you both leave the bar and walk over to one of the large lecture theatres. There's some familiar faces from last year. Marta and Brian have spotted you both and wave you over.
The lecture is being taken by [[Professor Mark Partridge|Partridge2]] and you feel like you have an advantage as he is your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@.<img src="images/passages/shrug it off_come back later.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
The money would have been a bonus but you're concerned about your increased workload in stage 2 and want to be sure you don't leave yourself short of time.
You settle into one of the chesterfield sofas with Bob and compare timetables. Only two of your modules are the same as Bob's this term. She's gone for fewer, bigger 30 credit modules whereas you have chosen several 15 credit modules. You debate which is more work, more subjects or more meaty <<print $assignmentType>>s. You can't agree.
Eventually you both leave the bar and walk over to one of the large lecture theatres. There's some familiar faces from last year. Marta and Brian have spotted you both and wave you over.
The lecture is being taken by [[Professor Mark Partridge]] and you feel like you have an advantage as he is already your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@.<img src="images/passages/Professor Mark Partridge_partridge2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
Prof. Mark, sporting his trademark combat trousers whose pockets are still fully loaded with miscellaneous bulky items, scurries up to the podium and looks over the rims of his round glasses as he addresses the theatre. He begins by describing his research area which he delivers with such passion that you feel transported back to primary school story time, hanging on the teacher's every word as the narrative unfolds. His refreshing perspective on a topic area that you are genuinely interested in brings new thoughts and ideas racing into your mind. It renews your enthusiasm for the term ahead.
Mark reminds you that, at stage 2, you're expected to formulate more of your own ideas, to branch out and find new resources, perhaps not even on the reading lists, that you can assess and evaluate. This will form the foundation of the large project that is expected of you by the end of term. He looks forward to discussing your ideas in the forthcoming seminars.
He finishes by displaying a slide advertising an event occurring at the Medway campus next week where a key speaker in this area will be presenting. Places are limited and can be booked online.
Do you [[book a place at the presentation in Medway|Medway2]] or decide that it is [[too much hassle|hassle2]] to work out how to get there and also you don't want to use your spare afternoon on something that might be useful when you know you've got plenty of work to do?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/medway2_book a place at the presentation in Medway.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Campus Shuttle">
You look at Bob with raised eyebrows. She nods and you both immediately use your phones to book via the QR code displayed up on the slide. It only takes a moment and the place is free. You're not yet sure how you're going to get there (or where the Medway campus is for that matter).
Bob is one step ahead of you and queries the online student guide about Medway campus which reveals a free shuttle bus service every hour between the two campuses. Bonus. You both manage to book return tickets and immediately receive email confirmations.
After the lecture you go back to K-Bar and ask to [[see the manager]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/too much hassle_hassle2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Smart Watch">
There will always be other speakers visiting the campus throughout the year, you know that. This important speaker may even decide to come to Canterbury at some point. In the meantime you have an appointment with several new reading lists as long as your arm AND you're now expected to find new sources too!
After the lecture you go back over to K-Bar and ask to [[see the manager|see the manager2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/see the manager_see the manager2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="K Bar Beer Tap">
A young-ish man appears from the kitchen area and eagerly shakes your hand. He was smartly dressed in black trousers and waistcoat with white shirt and a name badge with 'Tom Martowe, Manager' clearly displayed.
He asks you some basic questions about experience and willingness to be flexible. You haven't pulled pints before, but how hard can it be? He offers you a [[trial session that evening]].<img src="images/passages/see the manager_see the manager2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="K Bar Beer Tap">
A young-ish man appears from the kitchen area and eagerly shakes your hand. He was smartly dressed in black trousers and waistcoat with white shirt and a name badge with 'Tom Martowe, Manager' clearly displayed.
He asks you some basic questions about experience and willingness to be flexible. You haven't pulled pints before, but how hard can it be? He offers you a [[trial session that evening|that evening2]].<img src="images/passages/trial session that evening_that evening2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Toasties">
You arrive in good time for your trial shift and Tom shows you the ropes. The other members of staff working that evening are Abiola, who has been working there for nearly a year, and Nova, who never seems to do much work. You're in charge of the panini grill and soft drinks as well as clearing up tables of glasses. Abiola gives as much banter as she receives from the students, some of whom spend their entire evening in the bar alternating between playing pool and drinking. You manage 3 rounds of paninis without burning anything and, after drenching yourself only once with soda water, quickly master the soft drinks jet. Just over 3 hours later Tom comes to offer you the job. Do you [[accept]] or [[decline]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/accept_accept2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Cheersing Glasses">
Congratulations, you just increased your employability! The hours are very low and you know that, as your time management skills are constantly improving, you will be able to work the hours around your study commitments. There is always the flexiblity of turning shifts down and if it becomes too much, handing in your notice.
Tom gives you a celebratory free drink and Abiola winks in approval.
The rest of the week passes quickly in a blur of new topic discussions in seminars and tutorials. You aready have some good ideas for your large project $assignmentType but they could do with some refinement. Do you go to [[Prof. Mark's next drop-in hour]] to discuss your options or [[leave it until the next seminar]] he is taking and discuss it in the presence of your peers?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/decline_decline2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Marlowe at Night">
Much as you enjoyed it, you tell Tom that you're not going to take up his kind offer as you're a bit worried about how many extra shifts you might be asked to do. You tell him your primary concern is getting your degree and don't want to end up negatively impacting your chances of getting a good degree for the sake of a few extra pounds. He nods and says he understands. You look over at Abiola and she responds with an exaggerated downward turned mouth. Tom pays you for your time and you head back home just as it is starting to get really dark.
The parkland path is lit all the way down the hill until you reach the residential streets.
The rest of the week passes quickly in a blur of new topic discussions in seminars and tutorials. You aready have some good ideas for your large project $assignmentType but they could do with some refinement. Do you go to [[Prof. Mark's next drop-in hour]] to discuss your options or [[leave it until the next seminar]] he is taking and discuss it in the presence of your peers?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/trial session that evening_that evening2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Toasties">
You arrive in good time for your trial shift and Tom shows you the ropes. You arrive in good time for your trial shift and Tom shows you the ropes. The other members of staff working that evening are Abiola, who has been working there for nearly a year, and Nova, who never seems to do much work. You're in charge of the panini grill and soft drinks as well as clearing up tables of glasses. Abiola gives as much banter as she receives from the students, some of whom spend their entire evening in the bar alternating between playing pool and drinking. You manage 3 rounds of paninis without burning anything and, after drenching yourself only once with soda water, quickly master the soft drinks jet. Just over 3 hours later Tom comes to offer you the job. Do you [[accept|accept2]] or [[decline|decline2]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/accept_accept2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Cheersing Glasses">
Congratulations, you just increased your employability! The hours are very low and you know that, as your time management skills are constantly improving, you will be able to work the hours around your study commitments. There is always the flexiblity of turning shifts down and if it becomes too much, handing in your notice.
Tom gives you a celebratory free drink and Abiola winks in approval.
The rest of the week passes quickly in a blur of new topic discussions in seminars and tutorials. You aready have some good ideas for your large project $assignmentType but they could do with some refinement. Do you go to [[Prof. Mark's next drop-in hour|drop-in2]] to discuss your options or [[leave it until the next seminar|next seminar2]] he is taking and discuss it in the presence of your peers?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/decline_decline2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Marlowe at Night">
Much as you enjoyed it, you tell Tom that you're not going to take up his kind offer as you're a bit worried about how many extra shifts you might be asked to do. You tell him your primary concern is getting your degree and don't want to end up negatively impacting your chances of getting a good degree for the sake of a few extra pounds. He nods and says he understands. You look over at Abiola and she responds with an exaggerated downward turned mouth. Tom pays you for your time and you head back home just as it is starting to get really dark.
The parkland path is lit all the way down the hill until you reach the residential streets.
The rest of the week passes quickly in a blur of new topic discussions in seminars and tutorials. You aready have some good ideas for your large project $assignmentType but they could do with some refinement. Do you go to [[Prof. Mark's next drop-in hour|drop-in2]] to discuss your options or [[leave it until the next seminar|next seminar2]] he is taking and discuss it in the presence of your peers?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/take her up on her offer.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Appointment with Anne">
After some intense writing sessions, you make another apointment with Anne. She smiles as she casts her expert eye over your work to date. You have some good points and some unusual sources. Then she tests your hypothesis and it is not long before it is found to be as air tight as a waffle. You leave with a to-do list as long as your overdraft but content knowing that the additional effort will be worth it.
As the deadline approaches you [[burn some midnight oil]] to make sure you do yourself justice.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/have enough advice now to go it alone.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Working in EDA Lab">
Some days you write feverishly as your mind is totally in the zone. Other days you struggle to get a coherent sentence onto paper. But eventually you have a project which is well structured, contains plenty of evidence and a balanced arguement. You've taken Mark's feedback into consideration and been sure to back up your own ideas with valid research. A few classy diagrams and an impressively long bibliography in the correct format (thank you @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@) finishes the project.
As the deadline approaches you [[burn some midnight oil]] to make sure you do yourself justice.<img src="images/passages/burn some midnight oil.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Flat">
There's something about working through the night that makes you feel like you're under cover. It also makes you hungry. Tiptoeing into the kitchen, you close the door and prepare your signature 'speedy pizza' (cheese on toast scattered with token circles of salami). As the cheese bubbles noisily under the grill you hear heated voices from Tiz's bedroom. It's an odd hour to have a FaceTime argument but, as you take your first bite into your gourmet pizza, Tiz's door opens and Chimmy rushes out looking resplendent in a sailor's outfit. You can feel the molten cheese burn the roof of your mouth as you freeze and stare in disbelief at each other. This is awkward. He folds his arms in a failed attempt to hide the outfit's identity and skulks into the kitchen.
Eventually, Chimmy breaks the silence stand-off and asks for a bite of your 2am feast. You give him a whole slice as you know you'll be dining off this revelation for weeks!
With no mention of the outfit, or Tiz, you both [[return to your respective rooms]], with Chimmy promising to do the washing up tomorrow.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/return to your respective rooms.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Yellow Submarine">
Over the next few days Chimmy fails to find your trail of sailing related emails as funny as you. Photo-shopped snippets from the children's TV programme 'Octonauts', details of Royal Navy open days and Amazon pages for bath toy submarines all wing their way to Chimmy's phone.
Once the distractions tail off you can once more focus on finishing your project. You leave it for your tried-and-tested 2 days so that you can pick it up again with fresh eyes and spot the glaring mistakes. Deep down you know it is worthy of a medal. You submit it via @@.serviceLink;<<link "Turnitin">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ on time, making sure to be well ahead of the 3pm deadline. You don't want to leave it right up to the wire as that amounts to gambling with your degree outcome now.
To celebrate handing in such a large piece of coursework which directly contributes to your degree final grade, Bob checks <a href="https://thegulbenkian.co.uk/whats-on/" target="_blank">what's on at the Gulbenkian cinema</a> and asks whether you'd like to [[take advantage of the '2 for Tuesday' cinema offer]] or would you rather decline and have a [[free evening with Netflix in your room]]?.<img src="images/passages/funny rabbit.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Funny Rabbit Comedy Club">
Funny Rabbit is on every last Friday evening of the month at the Gulbenkian and showcases stand-up comedy routines from famous faces as well as those studying at the University. It's a great stress-buster and the next event is coming up. Bob's friend Tobias is doing a routine and Bob is going to provide moral support. She asks if you'd like to come along too.
It's on the evening of another deadline day so do you say [[yes and go along for a well-deserved humorous end to the week]] or [[decline and say that you'll be out celebrating that evening]]?<img src="images/passages/decline and say that youll be out celebrating that evening_yes and go along for a well deserved.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Broken Bicycle">
As your $assignmentType deadline and comedy club date draw near you have an absolute disaster. You are cycling home one evening and misjudged a pot hole in the road. You fall off your bike and do not sustain any serious injury but your laptop, which acted as a crash mat in your ruck sack, didn't escape unhurt. A good samaritan stops their car and checks you're OK. Your bike is still rideable and wasn't in pristine condition anyway. You go home to inspect the laptop. Emptying your rucksack onto the kitchen table, the noise of various components falling out doesn't bode well. The screen is smashed and it doesn't boot up. There are only 2 days to go until your deadline. Panic. Have you lost all your work? Thankfully you've been sensible enough to store all your main documents on the cloud but there are still plenty of drafts, letters and links that are just saved on your laptop.
Saffa makes you a consolation green tea. You drink it politely, even though it makes your body shiver. Do you quickly use your phone to email your school's @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ to [[ask for an extension to your assignment]], try to [[work out how to borrow another laptop]] or just go ahead and [[submit a concession online]] to say that you haven't been able to hand it in as all your work was lost in the accident?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/decline and say that youll be out celebrating that evening_yes and go along for a well deserved.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Broken Bicycle">
As your $assignmentType deadline date draws near you have an absolute disaster. You are cycling home one evening and misjudged a pot hole in the road. You fall off your bike and do not sustain any serious injury but your laptop, which acted as a crash mat in your ruck sack, didn't escape unhurt. A good samaritan stops their car and checks you're OK. Your bike is still rideable and wasn't in pristine condition anyway. You go home to inspect the laptop. Emptying your rucksack onto the kitchen table, the noise of various components falling out doesn't bode well. The screen is smashed and it doesn't boot up. There are only 2 days to go until your deadline. Panic. Have you lost all your work? Thankfully you've been sensible enough to store all your main documents on the cloud but there are still plenty of drafts, letters and links that you saved on your laptop.
Saffa makes you a consolation green tea. You drink it politely, even though it makes your your body shiver. Do you quickly use your phone to email your school's @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ to [[ask for an extension to your assignment|extension2]], try to [[work out how to borrow another laptop|borrow2]] or just go ahead and [[submit a concession online]] to say that you haven't been able to hand it in as all your work was lost in the accident?<img src="images/passages/ask for an extension_extension2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sending an Email">
By the following morning you've had an email response from Philippa, the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ coordinator. You remember Philippa, she was really helpful when you had a bad cold last year and told you about how to record your absences. As you click the email to open it you know that Philippa will have come up with a great solution.
You've just knocked Philippa off your Christmas card list. Extensions and concessions cannot be issued for broken IT equipment or failure to save work securely with a back-up. She recognises the extra stress which was not your fault but she does highlight the laptop loan service offered by the library.
You decide to [[call into the Library]] before your first lecture.<img src="images/passages/work out how to borrow_borrow2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jo The Receptionist">
After your lectures you go over to the Parkwood study hub but, with deadline week in full swing, there are no spare PCs to use. Eventually you go to your school reception to ask for help. Jo the receptionist is still chewing sweets and, as she unwraps another Starburst, she informs you that the schoool doesn't have a laptop loan service. However, she thinks there are laptops you can borrow from the library, free of charge. Great news! You thank Jo and [[go straight to library reception|call into the Library]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/call into the library.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Laptops">
There are plenty of laptops to use but unsurprisingly, they can only be used within the library. You reserve one for later in the day rather than risk trying to find a spare PC in one of the study hubs. The next couple of days seem to last so much longer now that you're spending more hours on campus, unable to work in your bedroom in the evening. The library is open 24 hours a day but you hadn't intended to actually utilise that service!
You find time to fill out the online insurance claim form so you can buy a new laptop ASAP.
By the end of the week the $assignmentType is complete (thank goodness you use the cloud as you shudder at the thought of re-writing everything). [[You submit your work several hours before the deadline]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/you submit your work several hours before the deadline.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Campus">
You don't feel in the mood for the Funny Rabbit comedy club but Bob reminds you about it each time she sees you. Do you reluctantly [[stay on campus]] until it begins or tell her something has come up and you [[need to be elsewhere|before deadline2]] that evening?
<img src="images/passages/walk across the floodlit campus to the Gulbenkian.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Funky Rabbit Comedy Club">
You spot Zak at the event and introduce him to Bob. Zak shakes his head at your laptop story and asks you to bring your broken laptop over to his house sometime as he might be able to retrieve some of the things on your hard drive. Zak confirms he has still managed to keep his lecture and seminar attendance above the minimum limit (just) although every so often regresses when a new online game is released. You agree to bring your broken laptop over to Zak before the Christmas break.
Bob's friend Tobias is one of the first comedy acts and his hilarious observations of student life are surprisingly entertaining. The audience erupts with laughter at each punch line and Bob is doubled over and can barely catch her breath. Her mascara is raining down her face.
The final act is always a well-known comedian and this evening is no exception. Vikki Stone is on stage, you remember seeing her on The John Bishop Show. Using a piano, she plays and sings several brilliant sketches. The one about your mum's drinks cabinet is very close to home.
Bob, who has a car, [[drives you the short distance home afterwards]]. Bonus. You promise to catch up again before the Christmas break.<img src="images/passages/ask for an extension_extension2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sending an Email">
By the following morning you've had an email response from Philippa, the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ coordinator. You remember Philippa, she was really helpful when you had a bad cold last year and told you about how to record your absences. As you click the email to open it you know that Philippa will have come up with a great solution.
You've just knocked Philippa off your Christmas card list. Extensions and concessions cannot be issued for broken IT equipment or failure to save work securely with a back-up. She recognises the extra stress which was not your fault but she does highlight the laptop loan service offered by the library.
You decide to [[call into the Library|call into the Library2]] before your first lecture.<img src="images/passages/work out how to borrow_borrow2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jo The Receptionist">
After your lectures you go over to the Parkwood study hub but, with deadline week in full swing, there are no spare PCs to use. Eventually you go to your school reception to ask for help. Jo the receptionist is still chewing sweets and, as she unwraps another Starburst, she informs you that the school doesn't have a laptop loan service. However, she thinks there are laptops you can borrow from the library, free of charge. Great news!
You thank Jo and [[go straight to library reception|call into the Library2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/call into the library.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Laptops">
There are plenty of laptops to use but unsurprisingly they can only be used within the library. You reserve one for later in the day anyway so you can continue on your assignment (or you could risk finding a spare PC in one of the study hubs). The next couple of days seem to last so much longer now that you're spending more hours on campus, unable to work in your bedroom in the evening. The library is open 24 hours a day but you hadn't intended actually utilising that service!
You also take the opportunity to fill out the online information needed to make a claim on your insurance so you can buy a new laptop.
By the end of the week the $assignmentType is complete (thank goodness you use the cloud; you shudder at the thought of re-writing everything). [[You submit your work several hours before the deadline|before deadline2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/you submit your work several hours before the deadline.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Campus">
Thank goodness you didn't agree to go out that evening to the Funny Rabbit comedy club. You're not in the mood for celebrating so you stay at home with Saffa whilst Tiz and Chimmy go to the Cuban bar in town.
Saffa listens sympathetically to your laptop woes and congratulates you on backing everything up. One of her course colleagues wasn't so lucky and didn't manage to re-write everything in time so was torn between the embarrassment of handing in a half finished $assignmentType or nothing at all. The half finished version got a terrible mark, but at least it was higher than 0% for a non-submission. And no, she didn't get an extension or concession either. Back-ups are the student's responsibility.
Saffa shows you how to make cauliflower rice and lentil curry and you teach her the card game 'chicken'. For a quiet night in, you've had a great time and decide on an early night. Just [[one more week until the Christmas break]] and only one more assignment to hand in.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/one more week until the christmas break.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
Thanks to the cauliflower rice and lentil curry, you quickly run out of friends during the last week of term. Saffa seems unafflicted by the digestive by-products of your joint night in. A piece of official looking paper is attached to the bathroom door banning you from using it, giving notice that you are being sued for crimes against the environment!
In the library you bump into Zak who is making a concerted effort to finish off all his assignments before the end of term. Zak shakes his head at your laptop story and asks you to bring your broken laptop over to his house sometime this week as he might be able to retrieve some of the things on your hard drive. He confirms he has still managed to keep his lecture and seminar attendance above the minimum limit (just) but every so often regresses when a new online game is released.
Still hampered by having to borrow a laptop from the library, do you [[find time to go and see Zak]] with your broken laptop or decide to live with the loss of some files and [[focus on getting everything that needs to be done]] by the end of the week?<img src="images/passages/drives you the short distance home afterwards.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Working in the Library">
The following week you're rushing to get your final piece of work finished, still hampered by having to borrow a laptop from the library.
Do you [[find time to go and see Zak]] with your broken laptop or decide to live with the loss of some files and [[focus on getting everything that needs to be done]] by the end of the week?<img src="images/passages/find time to go and see Zak.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Beer Cans">
Zak's student house is slightly out of your way home but the files on your broken laptop are worth the effort. Zak is sharing with 4 other students from the school of computing. He is really pleased to see you and shows you his downstairs bedroom at the back of the house. There are no curtains but instead a wall of beer cans provides privacy and blocks out so much daylight that the study lamps are on even though it is only 3pm.
You try and count how many computers Zak has in his room but you stall after 7 as some are in pieces and you're not sure if that counts or not. He offers you a can of beer. Do you [[accept|yes beer]] or [[decline|no beer]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/focus on getting everything that needs to be done.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Group Study Area">
You've already ruled out ever getting any laptop information back so you use the remaining time in the library using a communal laptop to get all your work done. You just hope that the research you saved on the cloud is sufficient to support your arguments.
You submit your work just in time, not even being able to leave it for a day before editing it. It's not your finest hour, but it only represents a few percent of your final degree mark.
The day before the end of term, your house hosts a [[full Christmas dinner]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/yes beer_no beer.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Fixing A Motherboard">
Zak nips out and returns with two cold cans of beer. He opens his can with a single hand and takes a swig so long you wonder if he has downed the whole thing. You sip your beer and try to find an uncluttered surface to put it down. You don't normally drink in early afternoon, but when in Rome.
Zak opens the carrier bag containing your broken laptop like he's seeing a long anticipated birthday present. He can't hide his glee when he sees the full picture of destruction. His nimble hands soon have the laptop cover off, micro screws cascade off the surface of his cluttered desk, leaving the mysterious guts of the machine on display. Living in organised chaos, he quickly locates another laptop and begins the task of creating a working Frankenstein hybrid.
After a few more sips of your beer he has your familiar information displayed on an unfamiliar screen. He clinks his empty beer can with yours then loads the files of importance (including some research for your current $assignmentType that you had forgotten about) onto your memory stick. You can't thank him enough and promise to return the favour some time.
You finish your assignment, managing to add the retrieved research, with only a couple of hours to spare. It's a pretty good effort in what were challenging conditions.
The day before the end of term your house hosts a [[full Christmas dinner]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/yes beer_no beer.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Fixing A Motherboard">
Zak nips out and returns with a can of beer, wet with condensation. He opens his can with a single hand and takes a swig so long you wonder if he has downed the whole can.
Zak opens the carrier bag containing your broken laptop like he's seeing a long anticipated birthday present. He can't hide his glee when he sees the full picture of destruction. His nimble hands soon have the laptop cover off, micro screws cascade off the surface of his cluttered desk, leaving the mysterious guts of the machine on display. Living in organised chaos, he quickly locates another laptop and begins the task of creating a working Frankenstein hybrid.
Within minutes, and after one more long slug of beer, he has your familiar information displayed on an unfamiliar screen. He raises his empty beer can to you then loads the files of importance (including some research for your current $assignmentType that you had forgotten about) onto your memory stick. You can't thank him enough and promise to return the favour some time.
You finish your assignment, managing to add the retrieved research, with only a couple of hours to spare. It's a pretty good effort in what were challenging conditions.
The day before the end of term your house hosts a [[full Christmas dinner]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/full christmas dinner.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Toilet Poo Sign">
The kitchen is a hive of activity. Everyone has their role. Saffa is creating a veggie dish. Chimmy is sat at the door of the oven, checking the turkey every few minutes like an expectant dad. You've gone overboard on the condiments and table setting/decorating. Tiz is concocting some elaborate dairy-heavy puddings whilst singing along to all the Christmas songs on the radio.
When it all comes together it is a feast to rival your mum's efforts. You all take a moment to snap the image on your phone so you can gloat when you get home! After the main course it is time for the secret santa gifts. Saffa is delighted with her stress relief kit and bracelet with inspirational quote. Likewise Tiz adores her shimmering new peacock themed diary. She strokes the heavily decorated pages like it was a pet. Chimmy opens his gift and gives you a sideways glance as he puts the sailor's hat on his head. The girls seize the opportunity for sailor selfies. You analyze your gift for a moment. It's a small yellow plastic warning sign that displays the words 'Bio-Hazard' on it. Chimmy explains it is for you to leave outside the bathroom door if you ever dare have cauliflower rice and lentil curry again.
You can't remember a non-family Christmas meal where you have felt surrounded by family. It is the [[perfect way to end the term]].<img src="images/passages/perfect way to end the term.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Autumn Trees">
The new term starts as frosty as you feel. The house takes a few days to get warm, as does your brain. You look lovingly at your new laptop. At least you can work in your room again now.
Chimmy is already busy applying for places for his year in industry, which he does before his final year. He worked hard and achieved good grades in his first year, which is what prospective placements will be using to decide who to accept. Tiz and Saffa are also thinking ahead to their year abroad in France. You can tell Saffa is nervous about it but Tiz is keeping her positive. You hadn't thought about a year out when choosing your course and you suddenly realise that you won't have these house mates next year so need to think about a new group to live with.
It's amazing how quickly the seminars and lectures get into full swing and you're back to your normal rhythm of work.
You know your project and <<print $assignmentType>>s will have been marked by now. Do you [[check them]] on @@.serviceLink;<<link "SDS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ or [[leave it]]?<img src="images/passages/check them.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Calculator and Graph">
Your project mark is what you expected and accurately represents the amount of hard work you put into it. You're quite happy with that. Your final $assignmentType was also pretty good considering the disruption you were working with. Do you want to [[have a look at your feedback]] or [[not bother]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 3>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it_not bother.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Be Optimistic">
You're not ready to get slated for things you did last term. You're ready to move on and get this term's work done to the best of your ability.
You have an [[email from your school]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/have a look at your feedback.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Man Looking at a Book">
The feedback for your project is really thorough. You don't take the short comments so personally now and see them for the constructive comments that they are. You jot down the main gist of the improvements that could have been made and do the same for your other assignments. Your last report had quite a few grammatical errors, not very surprising given the time pressure you were under.
You know this term's assignments are going to be your best yet.
You have an [[email from your school]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it_not bother.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Be Optimistic">
The marks were about what you were execting and you know the areas you could have improved on. What is done is done and you can't go back and change it.
You're ready to face this term's assignments with fresh vigour.
You have an [[email from your school]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 2
<</if>><img src="images/passages/email from your school.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Looking at Work">
The email, from Head of School, Professor Colin Lucas, reminds you of the importance of staying in contact with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ and checking your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ online to help guide you through the last part of your second year.
Do you want to [[check your Progress Profile]] or [[choose to leave it for another time]]?<img src="images/passages/check your progress profile.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Checking Her Phone">
The link in the email takes you directly to your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ dashboard. Your report is pleasantly green with some top marks further highlighted by exclamation marks! Your eye is drawn to a red anomaly though for a particular module. It's not horrendous but it takes you by surprise. Furthermore, when you look at your assignment types, they are all mostly in green but 2 of the online tests are in yellow across different modules. You had thought you were doing OK but now you're not so sure.
Do you decide to [[drop-in to see your Academic Adviser]], Professor Mark Partridge or do you [[wait and see how this term pans]] out before true panic sets in?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/choose to leave it for another time.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Signpost">
You're pretty confident you know how you're doing and don't want to waste any more time pouring over the tiny details that may leave you feeling deflated. Instead you consider the option of staying in contact with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. Do you go and [[see Prof. Mark at his next drop-in session]] or decide to [[leave it and see how this term pans out first]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/drop in to see your academic adviser_see prof mark at his next drop in session.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
Prof. Mark ushers you into his office with his usual chirpiness. He's pleased that you've looked at your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ and you go through the concerns it has raised. He informs you that they are intended to show things that might not otherwise be apparent and give you clues as to where you could improve. Your lower module has had much lower attendance, even though you've been watching the lectures on Kent Player to catch up. As there is a significant exam element of that module still to come it is all to play for. The lower marks for online tests, across two different modules, highlight that this type of assignment is more of a challenge and you focus your discussions on the hints and tips that might help make a difference this term.
You leave his office feeling empowered and more positive about the work ahead.
On your way out you bump into Gabriel. He's on his way to the Gulbenkian for a drink and asks if you want to come along. Do you [[take some time out]] and use it as an opportunity to see how Gabriel is doing or say [[you've got somewhere else you need to be right now]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it and see how next term pans out_wait and see how this term pans.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Gulbenkian Cafe">
Feeling a little deflated, you try to focus on the term ahead, keeping your attendance as high as possible and sticking religiously to your non-timetabled research time.
After your next lecture, you bump into Gabriel. He's on his way to the Gulbenkian for a drink and asks if you want to come along. Do you [[take some time out]] and use it as an opportunity to see how Gabriel is doing or say [[you've got somewhere else you need to be right now]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/take some time out.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Gulbenkian Cinema">
You order yourself a skinny latte and to your amazement Gabriel has a glass of red wine! You find one of the sofas and chat about how things are going.
Gabriel isn't looking forward to this term. He has an awful lot of reports as well as two of his least favoured type of assignment: presentations. His last term didn't end well and his project mark has been withheld as he had scored highly on the plagiarism scan. He has been asked to meet the senior tutor later this week and, if the claim is upheld, he won't have enough credits to pass the module or the year. You're just about to start playing your tiny violin when he makes it clear he doesn't care about the impending doom. He slurps his glass of red with all the sophistication of a toddler at a wedding.
It doesn't matter how you feel about your marks, at least you will always be a more conscientious student than Gabriel.
On the accommodation front, Gabriel offers to share a house with you next year, if he is still around. You thank him for the suggestion and promise to let him know.
You leave the Gulbenkian and attend your [[afternoon tutorials]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/youve got somewhere else you need to be right now.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Bird Man">
You pick up some new reading material from the library. There's a female student dressed head to toe in a T-Rex outfit in front of you checking some books out via the self-service machine. When she turns to leave the tail nearly takes you out.
Outside, the falcon man is flying his bird of prey, keeping the greedy student-lunch-hunting seagulls at bay. You go back to your school for the [[afternoon tutorials]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/see Prof Mark at his next drop in session_drop in to see your academic adviser.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
Prof. Mark ushers you into his office with his usual chirpiness. He asks how things are going and whether you have any concerns. He asks you whether you have looked at your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ yet as they are intended to show things that might not otherwise be apparent and give you clues as to where you could improve. You confess that you haven't so Mark looks on your behalf and spends a few precious meeting minutes looking over the dashboard data. He questions your attendance and you explain you've been watching the lectures on Kent Player to catch up. As there are still some meaty exams still to come, it is all to play for. The Progress Profile also shows lower marks for online in-class tests which hadn't been on your radar. He explains that this type of assignment is more of a challenge and you discuss hints and tips that might help make a difference this term.
You leave his office feeling empowered and more positive about the work ahead.
On your way out you bump into Gabriel. He's on his way to the Gulbenkian for a drink and asks if you want to come along. Do you [[take some time out]] and use it as an opportunity to see how Gabriel is doing or say [[you've got somewhere else you need to be right now]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it and see how next term pans out_wait and see how this term pans.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Gulbenkian Cafe">
You don't want to be over-shadowed by what happened last term and bombarded with advice of what you should be doing differently. You try to focus on the term ahead, keeping your attendance as high as possible and sticking religiously to your non-timetabled research time.
After your next lecture, you bump into Gabriel. He's on his way to the Gulbenkian for a drink and asks if you want to come along. Do you [[take some time out]] and use it as an opportunity to see how Gabriel is doing or say [[you've got somewhere else you need to be right now]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/afternoon tutorials.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Common Room">
After the tutorials, in the common room, Bob, Marta and Brian are found eating their way through the vending machine contents. They are discussing what the requirements are for this term's assignments. It's fascinating to hear their take on the tasks and how they will apply their critical thinking skills, which is different to yours.
You mention your accommodation dilemma. Each one is intending to stay where they are for next academic year and don't have any spare rooms but they promise to let you know if that changes. Marta also tells you about some new studio apartments that are a little further away but she's heard they're good so you make a mental note to explore that.
Bob tells the group that she has signed up to be a Student Ambassador. She will get to guide prospective students and their families around the university, telling them about her course on the numerous open days. Not only does she get paid but she also earns employability points and it doesn't clash with any study events. They're still looking for other Ambassador candidates. [[Are you interested in becoming an Ambassador]] or do you decide to [[leave it to the others to get the next generation of Kent students motivated]]?<img src="images/passages/Are you interested in becoming an Ambassador.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Student Ambassadors">
Bob recommends you read the advice on the webpages before deciding what to do. Many roles are available at different pay scales depending on time required and complexity. Full training is provided and you're impressed with all the skills it would showcase on your CV. The applicant and open day roles seem appealing and they have vacancies. You know you can talk enthusiastically about your time at Kent. You're not forced to be at every event but the cash you earn from each one will be very handy.
You do not have lectures or seminars when the core training is scheduled but you had intended to go into Canterbury to do a spot of Christmas shopping then. Do you decide to [[leave it and see if you can enrol in the new year]] or [[book yourself a training place now]] and go late night shopping instead?
<img src="images/passages/leave it to others to get the next generation of Kent.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Foyer">
Showing prospective students and their families around campus in the rain whilst simultaneously looking overly keen is not your idea of easy cash, but you applaud those who can do it.
You leave the group and go to the library to [[use the Kent Union 'Home Stamp' web page]] to look at studio apartments.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/home stamp 2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Westgate Gardens River Stour">
There are quite a few to choose from but your eye is drawn to a little 1 bed annexe to a house on the banks of the River Stour. You [[book a viewing|viewing2]] and hope no-one else has snapped it up before you get to see it.<img src="images/passages/use Kent Union Home Stamp web page.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Westgate Gardens River Stour">
There are quite a few to choose from but your eye is drawn to a little 1 bed annexe to a house on the banks of the River Stour. You [[book a viewing]] and hope no-one else has snapped it up before you get to see it.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/book a viewing_viewing2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Appartment Viewing">
Despite the wintery weather, the little apartment looks warm and cosy. It has been recently decorated and has basic cooking and washing facilities. The best part is that it is just a 9 month rental so you don't need to pay for it whilst it stays empty over summer. The thought of living on your own is daunting but the task of finding a group who you will get on with and who have a spare room is even more unnerving. You ask the Home Stamp team to check the T&C's then sign contracts.
Do you want to [[proceed with securing this apartment|this apartment2]] even though it is the first you have looked at or see if you can [[find another group to share a house with|another group2]]?
<img src="images/passages/book a viewing_viewing2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Appartment Viewing">
Despite the wintery weather, the little apartment looks warm and cosy. It has been recently decorated and has basic cooking and washing facilities. The best part is that it is just a 9 month rental so you don't need to pay for it whilst it stays empty over summer. The thought of living on your own is daunting but the task of finding a group who you will get on with and who have a spare room is even more unnerving.
Do you want to [[proceed with securing this apartment]] even though it is the first you have looked at or see if you can [[find another group to share a house with]]?
<img src="images/passages/return to your current house.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Student Ambassador">
Over the next few weeks you are asked to work on various applicant and open days as an Ambassador. These either occur at the weekend or on a Wednesday afternoon when there are no lectures or seminars. The more you do, the better you get at it, almost memorising a script that gets funnier each time you repeat it, especially the bit where you got caught in the PC suite watching Myth Busters. The prospective students start off quiet but by the time you finish guiding them round they are probing you for juicy details about life on campus. You are equally good with the parents, having had two of your own to practice with! They are more concerned with facilities, costs and safety, all of which you are now an expert in.
Apart from one rainy session, all the events were very popular and you managed to earn yourself a healthy pot of money whilst still [[staying on top of all your assignments and research|the seasons change]].<img src="images/passages/current house2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Mens Rugby Team">
Chimmy invites you all to his big end of season rugby match at the University sports ground.
You, Tiz and Saffa wrap up warm, fill your travel mug with double strength coffee and go to cheer from the edge of the pitch (even though you don't even know the rules for rugby, but it has something to do with a wonky ball and some big sticks in the ground).
You debate whether Chimmy's leg that he broke last winter, will be able to take the force of a scrum. Saffa speculates whether his ears will be flattened. In the end you are all wrong as Chimmy leaves the pitch early having received an accidental poke in the eye. To be fair it looks painful so the campus nursing service are called.
You walk back home with Saffa whilst Tiz stays with Chimmy. You call into the Co-op on the way back and buy a large tub of 'consolation' brownies to share and a vegan choc-chip cookie the size of a 2p coin but the price of a lawnmower for Saffa. Several hours later Tiz walks Chimmy, sporting a white eye bandage, through the door like he has just stepped off a battlefield. A few brownies later and he is [[starting to see the funny side|the seasons change]]. At least he will get a school concession out of this as his doctor's note confirms that his ability to study is limited for the next week or so.
<img src="images/passages/the seasons change.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Bluebell Woods">
The winter months pass without snow this year but some days, walking to campus through the freezing rain, it seems colder than last winter.
The bluebells confirm that spring is here once again and, as the Easter break draws near, your attention is turning to exam preparation once more. These exams mark the end of stage 2 and the completion of 40% of your total degree.
The industry and year abroad placements will only go ahead if Chimmy, Tiz and Saffa pass all their core modules. Saffa is really feeling the pressure and is being monitored weekly by her school @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ Officer.
Just before the end of term Tiz invites the house (and a few hundred other friends) to come and watch her perform in the Rock Choir at the Gulbenkian Theatre one evening. Do you [[go along for moral support]] or [[stay home and revise]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>>
<img src="images/passages/go along for moral support.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Colyer-Fergusson Music Building">
You've heard pretty much all the songs that are to be performed as Tiz has been singing constantly around the house for the last few weeks. She can certainly hold a tune and has good tempo but you wish her volume control was set a bit lower, especially first thing in the morning. The tickets are cheap and you all go for pre-show drinks at the Gulbenkian bar.
Tiz, with her rich red hair, is easy to spot in the choir within the vast Colyer-Fergusson Music Building. The combination of voices gives you goosebumps and every choir member is fully invested in giving an animated delivery. They didn't do choirs like that at school! Saffa can't resist singing along to several of the songs. Badly. After the last song Tiz joins you all at the bar and you end up staying several hours and, just for one evening, [[forget all about deadlines and revision]]
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/stay home and revise.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Social Media Links">
You don't fancy an evening of choir singing. You remember having to endure a few of those evenings at school and it wasn't something you want to repeat. Besides, with exams on the horizon and a few more peices of work to hand in before the end of term, you ought to stay in and work.
Tiz doesn't mind too much and she goes out with Saffa and Chimmy. The house is blissfully silent. Fully intending to work, you open the laptop. You just check Facebook first. Then Instagram. Then a couple of hundred rounds of Merge Dragons. Then you check who is on Discord and finally, to keep up with current affairs, all the national and local news pages. Before you know it, it is nearly midnight. Too late to start anything now so you call it a day and go to bed. You hear the other three come back home in the small hours, noisily raiding the fridge and bumping into walls. You hear voices whispering loudly outside your room but they don't knock or come in. After nearly an hour [[it is silent again]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/it is silent again_forget all about deadlines and revision.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Freedom">
Thankfully, the next day is a weekend as you wake at 2:30pm. It feels like your head might have ganged up on you and imploded messily into your mouth. Eyes refuse to coordinate and the hazy giggling from elsewhere in the house is way above your pain threshold. Still fully dressed and therefore presentable, you make an urgent dash for the bathroom only to be bounced back by an invisible force preventing you from leaving your room. You sit stunned on the floor. Your brain momentarily cannot compute due to "someone" having poisoned it. Your hand confirms that there is indeed clingfilm across your door.
In a humiliating scene, you crawl like a dying rodent under the bottom edge of the clingfilm as you don't have the energy, or banked bladder capacity to burst through it. Chimmy catches you on your belly, sprawled across the landing as you try to kick your feet free. Eventual freedom and solace in the bathroom are soon to follow. Do you spend the rest of the day is spent [[comatose on your bed]], after crawling back underneath the clingfilm or try and recoup some lost time by [[staring at one of your books]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/not a moment to spare_comatose on your bed.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Study Space">
Sunday thankfully sees the return to civilisation and 24 hours of meals to catch up on. Chimmy messages you the photo he took of you on your belly trying to escape your room. Although you hadn't appreciated it yesterday, it was a good prank.
Despite having written off a whole day, it had been worth taking time out with your friends. You spend what is left of the term being a model student, [[attending everything and completing all your assignments as required]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/attending everything and completing all your assignments as required.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Working in the EDA Lab">
The house takes on a distinctly different atmosphere after the Easter break. You each have exams on different days, you all spend long days on campus at revision sessions and are like ships passing in the night at home. But the format is strangely familiar and calm now as you line up one by one to enter the exam hall, each with your clear plastic bags and bottles of water. You reward yourself after each exam, sometimes in food and drink and sometimes a night on Netflix. Even Saffa has endured the exams better than she expected, having had the benefit of a quieter, smaller separate room plus extra time to reduce her anxiety.
The last week that you are all on campus is here. If everyone passes their exams this will be the last time you are all together. Chimmy starts his placement in two weeks and Saffa and Tiz will be preparing to go to France. You suggest an end of year celebration. Do you have a [[BBQ in your overgrown garden]], [[a night out in Canterbury]] or go large and [[book a day out on the Eurostar]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/it is silent again_forget all about deadlines and revision.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Freedom">
After a long, rejuvinating sleep you awake late morning. Getting up for your normal morning bathroom visitation you're stunned to find an invisible force is preventing you from leaving your room. It takes a moment to shake yourself awake enough to solve the mystery. A thick layer of clingfilm has been stretched across your doorway from top to bottom. It's basically double glazing for your door. It's too thick to burst through and you don't have the banked bladder capacity to unpick the edges so you get down on your hands and knees and crawl like a desperate rodent underneath the less taut lower edge.
Just as you are kicking your feet free, Chimmy appears with his phone to take an unflattering snap of you spread-eagled across the landing. You make it to the bathroom with [[not a moment to spare]].<img src="images/passages/not a moment to spare_comatose on your bed.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Study Space">
The remainder of the weekend thankfully sees the return to work mode with a firm handle on any distractions. Chimmy messages you the photo he took of you on your belly trying to escape your room. Although you hadn't appreciated it at the time, the photo does make you look exceedingly desperate and you admit it was a good prank.
You spend what is left of the term being a model student, [[attending everything and completing all your assignments as required]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/BBQ in your overgrown garden.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="BBQ in your overgrown garden">
The first issue is that the grass is waist height as no-one has a lawnmower. Each armed with a pair of scissors, you get a patch of grass cleared the size of a doormat. It's enough to sit the 2 disposable BBQ's on (one for meat and one for a strange array of vegetables hand picked by Saffa). How many people does it take to light an 'easy to light' BBQ? Five. The answer is five incompetent people, along with a whole box of matches.
You try to lay a picnic blanket out but the height of the grass makes it look like a levitating magic carpet. As you enjoy drinks and various blackened food items you take this moment to appreciate all the good times you've shared with this lot and how different next year is going to be for all of you.
<img class="passagebadge" src="images/quest4badge.png" height=30% width=30%>
You have now earned yourself a shiny Stage 2 Completion badge!
Your second year at the University of Kent is over and you have navigated the minefield of critical thinking, clashing timetables, student employment, checking your progress and keeping in contact with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. You know the importance of managing your distractions but taking time out to enjoy yourself too. You look forward to the long summer holidays and are eager to find out your exam results in due course.
You are ready for quest 5: [[The final stage at Kent|Finish Quest 4]].
<<set $quest4Badge = true>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/a night out in Canterbury.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Tokyo Tea Rooms Club">
It seems appropriate that your last meal together is at Cafe Des Amis overlooking the beautiful River Stour. You all weave through the late night revellers along the High Street to reach the Tokyo Tearooms. Having pre-arranged a VIP booth you are spoiled all night with great cocktail service. Even though the DJ was playing the best un-cheesy music you had heard in many a night out, you all leave the dance floor and spend the rest of the night humiliating yourselves in the karaoke room. Chimmy tries to bring the house down with his renditon of "Love Shack" despite not having an ounce of natural singing ability. You congratulate yourself on your homage to "Livin' La Vida Loca" even though Chimmy declared you sing like a swan with laryngitis. Saffa makes an attempt at "Waterloo" but only actually gets the "wow wow wow wow Waterloo" bit of song correct. Tiz is the clear winner (obviously) singing "Firework" almost as well as Katy Perry herself.
As you catch the late bus back home you take this moment to appreciate all the good times you've shared with this lot and how different next year is going to be for all of you.
<img class="passagebadge" src="images/quest4badge.png" height=30% width=30%>
You have now earned yourself a shiny Stage 2 Completion badge!
Your second year at the University of Kent is over and you have navigated the minefield of critical thinking, clashing timetables, student employment, checking your progress and keeping in contact with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. You know the importance of managing your distractions but taking time out to enjoy yourself too. You look forward to the long summer holidays and are eager to find out your exam results in due course.
You are ready for quest 5: [[The final stage at Kent|Finish Quest 4]].
<<set $quest4Badge = true>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>>
<img src="images/passages/book a day out on the Eurostar.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Eiffel Tower">
An early start, and with passport in hand, you catch a train to Ashford International just 20 minutes away, and then the Eurostar direct to Paris which is another 1 hour 52 minutes. It's ludicrous that you can do a day trip to Paris from Canterbury. With Tiz and Saffa being fluent in French there is the opportunity to sample a proper taste of France without fear. You catch the river bus along the Seine and eat a huge lunch at one of the many outdoor bars. Fully fuelled, you walk up the hundreds of steps on the Eiffel Tower and drink in the view. With a picnic tea ready for the train ride home, and wearing obligatory new berets, you're back in Canterbury just as dusk changes to night.
As you catch the late bus back home from the station you take this moment to appreciate all the good times you've shared with this lot and how different next year is going to be for all of you.
<img class="passagebadge" src="images/quest4badge.png" height=30% width=30%>
You have now earned yourself a shiny Stage 2 Completion badge!
Your second year at the University of Kent is over and you have navigated the minefield of critical thinking, clashing timetables, student employment, checking your progress and keeping in contact with your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. You know the importance of managing your distractions but taking time out to enjoy yourself too. You look forward to the long summer holidays and are eager to find out your exam results in due course.
You are ready for quest 5: [[The final stage at Kent|Finish Quest 4]].
<<set $quest4Badge = true>>
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/the final stage at kent.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Looking into Microscope">
Your new quest is to become an independent finalist by completing stage 3 of your degree at Kent. Not only will you need to successfully navigate everything that this last year of study has to offer, you'll also need to have your eye on what lies ahead of you. Life after your degree - what does it looks like, will you find employment or go on to further study?
You're on the home straight now. If you get through this last quest you're going to experience one of the best moments ever; donning your mortar board and gown and graduating in front of your family in the full splendour of the Canterbury Cathedral World Heritage site.
With 60% of your degree still to complete, it is all [[still to play for]].
<<if previous() is "Campus Choice" and visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 100>>
<<set $wellScore += 40>>
<</if>>
<<script>>
if(State.getVar('$skipped') == true)
{
GA.sendEvent("Skipped Quest", "Player Progression", "Skipped to Quest 5");
}
<</script>>
<<set $skipped = false>>
<img src="images/passages/still to play for.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Celebration">
Results day is a short hop into the summer break. Once more, you check your results online as soon as the email notification comes through. Your heart insists on pounding loudly as you log in. 40% of your degree is at stake. Sweaty fingers swipe across your phone screen as you locate the results tab.
It simply says 'PROCEED'. You breathe out heavily. It's such a short word to reflect the amount of effort that went into the year, but is absolutely preferable to the other option of 'FAIL' with associated re-sits or a repeat year. Simply put, you have passed all the credits needed to continue to the final year.
It's time to celebrate. Do you crack open the new jar of Nutella you've been saving and [[dish up several rounds of toast]], run round the house [[shouting "YAAAASSSS, I KILLED IT!"]] for a good 15 minutes or sit down and [[post your success onto every conceiveable social media platform whilst simultaneously FaceTiming]] your friends?
<img src="images/passages/dish up several rounds of toast.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jar of Nutella">
You've earned the jar of sugary loveliness. After 6 slices of toast topped with several centimetres of Nutella, your stomach is asking you to ease off the celebrating. You slump back into your chair and admire the trail of crumbs across the table and the severe dent you've made inside Nutella jar. Job. Well. Done.
The rest of the summer break continues to plan. Temporary employment keeps the bank balance just above floating point and you enjoy being home for a couple of months, even managing to impress the family with some (not all) of your cooking every now and then.
At the end of September it is [[time to return to Kent for the start of stage 3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/Yaaaaas I killed it.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Disapproving Cat">
You burst into every room in the house to declare your success. From the comfort of his cosy cushion, the cat murders you with his eyes for ruining his day-time slumber, does an unpleasant smelling yawn then goes back to sleep. Your Dad is at work and you manage to disrupt a conference call your mum is on in the home office. She doesn't appear to mind, beams widely and gives you the thumbs up.
Feeling rightfully proud, your mum finished her call then you celebrate with a cup of tea and a bag of Wotsits each.
The rest of the summer break continues to plan. Temporary employment keeps the bank balance just above floating point and you enjoy being home for a couple of months, even managing to impress the family with some (not all) of your cooking every now and then.
At the end of September it is [[time to return to Kent for the start of stage 3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/post your success onto every conceiveable social media platform.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Facebook Like">
As the likes and comments start rolling in, the news hits home. You've practically got half a degree now! Your mates from school are also celebrating their successes and you agree to meet up locally for a night out before going back to uni.
The rest of the summer break continues to plan. Temporary employment keeps the bank balance just above floating point and you enjoy being home for a couple of months, even managing to impress the family with some (not all) of your cooking every now and then.
At the end of September it is [[time to return to Kent for the start of stage 3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/time to return to kent for the start of stage 3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="House Keys">
Your Dad drives you to your little apartment at the start of term.
It's the first time your Dad has seen the place and he is impressed. It smells of fresh carpet and the kitchen has had a lick of paint since you last saw it. It looks better than you remember, a bit neutral, but nothing a few pictures won't sort out. He drives you to a supermarket for a quick food shop before leaving you to your unpacking.
Reality hits.
You're on your own. You're renting your own place and everything is down to you, the bills, the cooking, the cleaning. Oh, and studying too. You immediately get your playlist up and running on your phone via your stereo. That's better. You can do this. [[It's the final countdown!]]<img src="images/passages/It's the final countdown!.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Flower Beds on Campus">
It's great to get back on campus again. Everything looks greener, more mature. The summer flower beds are still enjoying the prolonged good weather. You notice how many young faces there are around campus. They must be the new stage 1 students. They look so worried, but you know in a couple of weeks they will be transformed.
The timetable for your first term looks quite heavy but well spaced. You see Bob and Hannah in the foyer of your school. Bob is deeply tanned. She spent the summer in the south of France at her Mum's family home. You wonder how Tiz and Saffa are getting on in their French placements. Must message them. You all compare which modules you are doing and note that several of them match.
You all go into the main lecture hall for [[your 'Welcome back' talk]].<img src="images/passages/your welcome back talk.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
As is customary, the Head of School, Professor Colin Lucas welcomes you all back to the university and instils on you his hopes and wishes for a healthy final year, rich in learning, self-discovery and not too much partying! Everyone in the room has passed stage 2 and is worthy of stage 3. You look around and notice Gabriel isn't there. Did he fail or just not bother turning up?
Prof. Colin urges you to consider investigating opportunities that will increase your employability and to independently seek out those beneficial resources on offer at the university which will make a difference to your grades. At this point the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ Manager Christine reminds everyone that support is available whenever you need it, you only have to ask and that, as usual, all attendance will be monitored particularly closely in this final year.
You leave the lecture theatre with Bob and Hannah and take root in the [[sofa corner of the common room]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/sofa corner of the common room.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Vending Machines">
Hannah is looking lovingly at the fully stocked vending machine. Before you have the chance to get your wallet out she has a bag of Nik-Naks, a packet of Oreos and a can of coke in her hands. You were too nervous/excited for breakfast but you're hungry now.
Do you fancy the largest bag of [[crinkle crisps]] the machine has to offer, a sensible pack of [[breakfast biscuits]] or the [[chocolate Boost bar]] which always looks incredibly tiny but sticks to every surface in your mouth and takes a good 2 hours to fully consume as a result?<img src="images/passages/chocolate boost bar.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Common Room">
Crinkle crisps equals more surface area, equals more crisps, right? You join Bob and Hannah on the sofa and crunch noisily through the bag. You compare notes about your summer breaks. It turns out Marta had to come back to University in mid August for a re-sit exam to pass one of her modules. She passed though, so is definitely in stage 3.
Bob mentions Prof. Colin's talk about employability and says she has already signed up to be an Academic Peer Mentor. You remember how much help your mentor Dave was. Do you want to [[find out more about being a mentor]] to the next generation of students or would you rather [[not lose any potential study hours in your final year]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/chocolate boost bar.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Common Room">
Every meal should be available in biscuit version - you contemplate what a brilliant business idea that is. You join Bob and Hannah on the sofa and munch noisily through the 5 biscuits, making a bib of crumbs down your front. You compare notes about your summer breaks. It turns out Marta had to come back to University in mid August for a re-sit exam to pass one of her modules. She passed though, so is definitely in stage 3.
Bob mentions Prof. Colin's talk about employability and says she has already signed up to be an Academic Peer Mentor. You remember how much help your mentor Dave was. Do you want to [[find out more about being a mentor]] to the next generation of students or would you rather [[not lose any potential study hours in your final year]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/chocolate boost bar.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Common Room">
As usual, the bar looks deceptively small. But after just one bite the chocolate and caramel combo has glued large clumps of biscuit around the inside of your mouth. You join Bob and Hannah on the sofa, who watch you contort your face to unstick the chocolate bar from your teeth and gums. You all compare notes about your summer breaks. It turns out Marta had to come back to University in mid August for a re-sit exam to pass one of her modules. She passed though, so is definitely in stage 3.
Bob mentions Prof. Colin's talk about employability and says she has already signed up to be an Academic Peer Mentor. You remember how much help your mentor Dave was. Do you want to [[find out more about being a mentor]] to the next generation of students or would you rather [[not lose any potential study hours in your final year]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/find out more about being a mentor.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jo The Receptionist">
You leave the common room and go up to the school Reception. It's the first time you've seen Jo, the receptionist, not chewing. When you check the sweet bowl, it is empty. Jo catches you looking, frowns and says a friend ate them all. Unlikely. You ask if you could talk to someone about the Academic Peer Mentoring scheme and she immediately walks you down the corridor to the Mentor Co-ordinator, Philomena.
Philomena's office looks like a cross between a crime scene and a boot fair. Philomena smiles at you and pushes her long, mad curls out of her eyes. She wheels the trolley full of rain ponchos out of the way to reveal a chair for you to sit on.
She explains that the mentor scheme is voluntary and fits around your availability and preferences. You get full training and it looks great on your CV as it provides you with all sorts of transferable skills. You even get a certificate at an awards evening at the end of the year and will feel pride at having helped guide other students to excel at university.
Do you [[want to sign up]] or tell Philomena [[you'll think about it]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/not lose any potential study hours in your final year.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Building">
You decide not to sign up to anything at the moment until you've worked out how much extra work in involved in stage 3.
Once your snack is finished you [[walk over to Sibson building|sibson building 2]] for your next lecture.<img src="images/passages/want to sign up.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Philomena's Office">
Philomena looks delighted and promises that you can tailor it around your existing commitments to avoid becoming over burdened, but it will require some careful time management to make sure you have the odd hour here and there to see mentees. You can call in to see Philomena any time if you have any questions about the process or mentees in particular. She sets up your training which is all done over a couple of hours during next week, before all the assignment work really begins. After that, Philomena will email you direct if she has a student who she thinks would benefit from seeing you.
You feel proud that you have done something not only for yourself but for the benefit of others too.
You thank Philomena for her help and [[walk over to Sibson building]] for your next lecture.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 4>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/youll think about it.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Stack of Papers">
You suddenly get cold feet, realising you're not sure how many extra hours of work stage 3 will entail and therefore you may need all the valuable time you can get. Philomena doesn't mind, scurries about under piles of papers and a plate decorated with the remnants of her lunch and finds a piece of paper about the scheme which she hands to you. She advises you come back and see her any time if you change your mind and that she totally understands your predicament at the moment.
You thank Philomena for her help and [[walk over to Sibson building|sibson building 2]] for your next lecture.<img src="images/passages/walk over to Sibson building.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Lecture Theatre">
You file into one of the lecture theatres. Brian is up near the back so you head over to sit in the same row. Brian introduces you to his friends Leila and Mahat. Leila's belongings are 100% holographic, her bag, pencil case, pens, even the logo on her t-shirt says "Holo it's me". Mahat, in contrast, must have been in a real rush getting ready that morning.
You mention you've just signed up for the Academic Peer Mentor scheme. Only Leila has used the mentors before. She confirms she will sign up to become one too as she says it also helps consolidate her own learning from previous years.
A new lecturer, Dr Yoo Hu is teaching this module. You like his style, which includes playing quizzes using a Socrative app on your phone. You get assigned to the lime green team in the space race competition but you've not been blessed with team member brains and your rocket is lagging seriously behind the others. Leila's violet team is making toast of everyone else and they 'whoop' with each correct answer.
At the end of the lecture (your team lost by a considerable margin), the others are going to pop over to Woody's. Do you [[join them at Woody's]] or decide to [[make an early start on the reading list]] materials at Templeman library?<img src="images/passages/sibson building 2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Lecture Theatre">
You file into one of the lecture theatres. Brian is up near the back so you head over to sit in the same row. Brian introduces you to his friends Leila and Mahat. Leila's belongings are 100% holographic, her bag, pencil case, pens, even the logo on her t-shirt says "Holo it's me". Mahat, in contrast, must have been in a real rush getting ready that morning.
A new lecturer, Dr Yoo Hu is teaching this module. You like his style, which includes playing quizzes using a Socrative app on your phone. You get assigned to the lime green team in the space race competition but you've not been blessed with team member brains and your rocket is lagging seriously behind the others. Leila's violet team is making toast of everyone else and they 'whoop' with each correct answer.
At the end of the lecture (your team lost by a considerable margin), the others are going to pop over to Woody's. Do you [[join them at Woody's]] or decide to [[make an early start on the reading list]] materials at Templeman library?<img src="images/passages/join them at woodys.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woodys terrace">
Woody's is a modern student hub containing 2 dance studios, a student union co-op mini-supermarket, an IT study hub as well as a bar which serves everything from toast and jam at breakfast, rice pots at lunch to sunday roast for dinner.
Upstairs there are two large pool tables overlooking the roof terrace. You're not surprised to see Gabriel playing pool with another student and go over to say hi. He looks surprised to see you and not overly keen to chat. This, it transpires, is due to the fact that he is currently repeating stage 2 and doesn't want to talk about it.
You join Brian, Leila and Mahat on the roof terrace, lounging on one of the soft outdoor sofas. Brian has taken on the responsibility of helping to run the Football Fans Society and is organising a game of bubble football this Wednesday. He is looking for volunteers to build some teams. Leila says she won't do it unless there is a holographic zorb ball she can climb into. Mahat immediately says he'd love to take part. Do you agree to [[join Brian and Mahat for the bubble match]] or, like Leila, say [[you'll support the players from the sideline]] instead?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/make an early start o the reading list.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Bubble Football">
Before you all go your separate ways, Brian tells you that he has taken on the responsibility of helping to run the Football Fans Society and is organising a game of bubble football this Wednesday. He is looking for volunteers to build some teams. Leila says she won't do it unless there is a holograhic zorb ball she can climb into. Mahat immediately says he'd love to take part.
Do you agree to [[join Brian and Mahat for the bubble match]] or, like Leila, say [[you'll support the players from the sideline]] instead?
You then stroll briskly over to the library to get first dibs on the new reading material.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/join Brian and Mahat for the bubble match.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Sport Bubble Match">
Wednesday afternoon arrives and you are ready for your 30 minute game against the university staff team. Players of all shapes and ages are assembled. You are put on the same team as Mahat and are safely encased in one of the 'red' balls which gives everything you see a pinkish warm glow. Mahat uses his long legs to his advantage and manages to run at speed both at the ball and other 'blue' players, ruthlessly bouncing them out of his path. Being of shorter stature, the upper parts of your legs are already in the zorb ball, so you can only run from the knees down. You are easy prey and immediately a blue ball has you rolling about on the floor, legs flailing in the air like a sun-burned tortoise. Cackles of laughter at your expense ring out from the sidelines. By the time you manage to right yourself, a total of 4 goals have been scored. Within moments, you're back to staring at grass again but not before you inadvertently head the ball into the goal! Shame it was your own goal.
By the end of the match you've decided you are lousy at bubble football even though it was good fun. The red team won, mainly thanks to Mahat's barging skills.
You all go to the [[Sports Pavilion cafe]] for refreshments afterwards.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/join Brian and Mahat for the bubble match.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Sport Bubble Match">
On Wednesday you watch the bubble football matches from the sideline with Leila. Mahat and Brian are encased in the red zorb balls and the university staff are in the blue balls, ready for their 30 minutes of fun.
Players of all shapes and ages are assembled. Mahat uses his long legs to his advantage and manages to run at speed both at the football and other 'blue' players, ruthlessly bouncing them out of his path. Being of shorter stature, the upper parts of Brian's legs are already in the zorb ball, so he can only run from the knees down. He is easy prey and immediately a blue ball knocks him to the floor, legs flailing in the air like a sun-burned tortoise. You and Leila cackle with laughter as Brian rolls about like a discarded potato. By the time he manages to right himself a total of 4 goals have been scored. Within moments, he's back to staring at grass again but not before inadvertently heading the ball into the goal! The red goal.
Despite Brian's efforts, the red team win, mainly thanks to Mahat's barging skills.
You all go to the [[Sports Pavilion cafe]] for refreshments afterwards.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/sports pavilion cafe.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Sports Pavilion Cafe">
Over the next week the true extent of assignments for this term are uncovered. As well as being a few more of them, the knowledge you're expected to demonstrate is more extensive. You've been faced with this step up in complexity before and overcame it so you're feeling confident you can rise to the occasion again.
The first main assignment is another piece of group work. Luckily for you, two groups have asked you to join them. Do you [[join Bob, Marta and Hannah]] (they got a really high grade in the stage 2 presentations) or go with the [[lesser known group comprised of Brian, Leila and Mahat]]?<img src="images/passages/join Bob Marta and Hannah.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Group Work">
You decide to stick with people you know who like to work as hard as you do and are capable of pulling their own weight. The group arrange to meet early in the term to discuss how to split up the task so that each person has an equal share. In the meantime, you suggest everyone starts their research so they can come to the first meeting with ideas to discuss.
You conscientiously study the options each evening from the comfort of your cosy apartment and come to the meeting [[armed with a host of ideas|host of ideas 2]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/lesser known group comprised of Brian Leila and Mahat.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Group Study">
One of the great aspects of being at university is the opportunity to mix with other people, whether as part of study or leisure. It will be exciting finding out if this new group likes to work the way you do. You agree to meet in a week to decide how to split up the task fairly between each of you. In the meantime, you suggest everyone starts their research so they can come to the first meeting with ideas to discuss.
You conscientiously study the options each evening from the comfort of your cosy apartment and come to the meeting [[armed with a host of ideas]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/armed with a host of ideas.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Common Room">
It is clear that Brian has done some strategy research and Leila has been looking at some really creative delivery ideas. Mahat has taken a more leisurely approach, not wanting to commit to anything until the tasks have been assigned. Given your work already, the group agree that you should be team leader, a role you're delighted to accept. You discuss and subdivide the task depending on each person's key interests and ability. The team has just 5 weeks to come up with an innovative presentation so you set a deadline and meeting date for each week to check progress.
Later that evening you get a [[message from Saffa|message from Saffa2]].<img src="images/passages/host of ideas 2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Study Area">
Bob, consistent as ever, has studiously gathered all the research evidence and compiled a thorough bibliography to sort through. Hannah has sourced and tested out some new presentation software that will give the group the edge and has some good ideas of how different data can be best presented. Marta is less forthcoming, wanting to hear which aspect of the task she is allocated before committing too much effort.
The group agree that you should have a turn to be team leader, a role you're delighted to accept. You discuss and subdivide the task depending on each person's key interests and ability. The team has just 5 weeks to come up with an innovative presentation so you set a deadline and meeting date for each week to check progress.
Later that evening you get a [[message from Saffa]].
<img src="images/passages/back in the rhythm.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
The next week passes in a blur of seminars and lectures. More assignments are set. You're going to really need to do some careful time management to stay on top of things now.
Do you want to [[use the Assignment Survival Toolkit]] to help set some deadlines ensuring you don't leave everything to the last minute or do you want to [[just get one assignment done at a time]]?
<img src="images/passages/use the Assignment Survival Toolkit_ASK2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Assignment Survival Kit">
Good idea, this will help you pace everything evenly, making sure you don't leave everything to be done in the final week - definite stress recipe. You use the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Assignment Survival Kit">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ to set all your $assignmentType breakdown milestones. You provide the deadline dates and pick the assignment type and the @@.serviceLink;<<link "ASK Tool">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ plots how and when you should be working on research, planning and editing. You plot all the key dates onto your timetable. That feels better and you're now in control again.
Back to the presentation work. You meet up with Bob and Hannah. They've both done a lot of work and made excellent progress. Marta can't make it as she says she has a meeting booked with her @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. Do you [[chase her up in an email]] or [[leave it for the following week]] and hope all is well?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/just get one assignment done at a time_one at a time2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Building">
Surely if you just work steadly through the list, you can keep focused on one thing at a time without getting overwhelmed? You focus on getting this presentation out of the way.
You meet up with Bob and Hannah. They've both done a lot of work and made excellent progress. Marta can't make it as she says she has a meeting booked with her @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. Do you [[chase her up in an email]] or [[leave it for the following week]] and hope all is well?<img src="images/passages/chase her up in an email_chase email2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Cafe">
Marta doesn't respond straight away and you sense she is a bit miffed that you appear to be checking up on her. She confirms she has done her fair share and will see you all at the meeting next week as planned. You're still worried at the uncertainty but [[you've done what you can]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it for the following week_following week2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
You're all adults now and Marta knows the schedule. If it turns out she hasn't done the work yet she will just have to work extra hard the following week. You're still a bit worried about the uncertainty but [[you've done what you can]].<img src="images/passages/youve done what you can_done what you can2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Seminar Group">
It's a week later and Bob and Hannah are meeting you in the Parkwood study hub. It's a hive of activity and noise but you've booked yourself a really quiet study pod. Hannah says Marta is ill today and can't make it. As team leader, Bob and Hannah agree it is your call what to do. It's getting harder to continue planning the presentation without Marta's component.
Do you email Marta and ask her to [[send over her work so far]] or [[seek advice from the module convenor]]?<img src="images/passages/use the Assignment Survival Toolkit_ASK2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Assignment Survival Kit">
Good idea, this will help you pace everything evenly, making sure you don't leave everything to be done in the final week - definite stress recipe. You use the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Assignment Survival Kit">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ to set all your $assignmentType breakdown milestones. You provide the deadline dates and pick the assignment type and the @@.serviceLink;<<link "ASK Tool">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ plots how and when you should be working on research, planning and editing. You plot all the key dates onto your timetable. That feels better and you're now in control again.
Back to the presentation work. You meet up with Brian and Leila. They've both done a lot of work and made excellent progress. Mahat can't make it as he says he has a meeting booked with his @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. Do you [[chase him up in an email|chase email2]] or [[leave it for the following week|following week2]] and hope all is well?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/just get one assignment done at a time_one at a time2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Building">
Surely if you just work steadly through the list, you can keep focused on one thing at a time without getting overwhelmed? You focus on getting this presentation out of the way.
You meet up with Brian and Leila. They've both done a lot of work and made excellent progress. Mahat can't make it as he says he has a meeting booked with his @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. Do you [[chase him up in an email|chase email2]] or [[leave it for the following week|following week2]] and hope all is well?<img src="images/passages/chase her up in an email_chase email2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sibson Cafe">
Mahat doesn't respond straight away but when he does he is clearly miffed that you are checking up on him. He confirms he has done his fair share and will see you all at the meeting next week as planned. You're still worried about the uncertainty but [[you've done what you can|done what you can2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it for the following week_following week2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
You're all adults now and Mahat knows the schedule. If it turns out he hasn't done the work yet he will just have to work extra hard the following week. You're still a bit worried about the uncertainty but [[you've done what you can|done what you can2]].<img src="images/passages/youve done what you can_done what you can2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Seminar Group">
It's a week later and Brian and Leila are meeting you in the Parkwood study hub. It's a hive of activity and noise but you've booked yourself a really quiet study pod. Leila says Mahat is ill today and can't make it. As team leader, Brian and Leila agree it is your call what to do. It's getting harder to continue planning the presentation without Mahat's component.
Do you email Mahat and ask him to [[send over his work so far|send work so far2]] or [[seek advice from the module convenor|advice from module convenor2]]?<img src="images/passages/send over her work so far.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Workbook">
It takes Marta two days to respond. She has been really poorly with a throat infection. She even has a doctor's note from the medical centre to prove it. The illness has set her back a few days and her work to date is just a set of scatty notes that are not emailable at this stage, but she assures you she will meet next week to start assembling the presentation.
Do you email your school to [[find out if you can get an extension]] to the deadline due to Marta's illness or [[carry on as planned]] as the rest of you have not been poorly?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/seek advice from module convenor_advice from module convenor2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Module Convenor">
After your next seminar, you locate the module convenor and ask for their advice. Two weeks into the presentation task and one of your team members has contributed nothing. The convenor explains that this is a common problem with group work and that it is the team leader's job to schedule, motivate and re-plan work as necessary. He reminds you that you may be eligible for an extension if Marta's illness continues to cause disruption but he will, in the meantime, make a note that you're having these issues within the group. You decide to [[carry on as planned]] for the time being.
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/find out if you can get an extension_get an extension2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Receptionist">
Later that day you get a reply from Philippa, the school support coordinator. Philippa has discussed the matter with the module convenor. In light of how each task had been clearly subdivided between the 4 of you and having looked at Marta's doctor's note, they have agreed that the presentation can be delayed for your group by 3 days.
You let the rest of the group know and [[Marta thanks you for sorting that out]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/carry on as planned_carry on as planned2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lego man at Desk">
By the time you all next meet, Marta has still not completed her tasks. The presentation doesn't contain a sufficient balanced argument and research is a bit one-sided. You ask Marta to continue working on her task and urge her to send some updated information in a couple of days. Marta instantly boils. With a raised voice, she points the finger at you as the main antagonist. You've made Marta feel burdened, unmotivated and to feel guilty for being ill.
You calmly remind Marta that she wasn't engaging with the team right at the start and therefore the team shouldn't be penalised. Although it was unfortunate she was ill she needs to recognise that, as with any work, it is her responsibility to catch up.
Do you tell the group to [[reconvene in a couple of days when Marta should have the extra material]] or do you decide that each person can [[take on a little extra responsibility|responsibility2]] to make the presentation as good as possible, after all it is worth a considerable number of points in your overall degree?<img src="images/passages/Marta thanks you for sorting that out.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Working">
By the time you all next meet, Marta has still not completed her tasks. The presentation doesn't contain a sufficient balanced arguement as research is a bit one-sided. You ask Marta to contintue working on her aspect of the research and send some updated information in a couple of days. Marta instantly boils. With a raised voice, she points the finger at you as the main antagonist. You've made Marta feel burdened, unmotivated and to feel guilty for being ill.
Do you remind Marta that she wasn't engaging with the team right at the start and it is down to you that an extension of 3 days has been granted so [[she needs to use the time to catch up]], or do you agree that the rest of the team can use the 3 days to [[each take on a little extra responsibility]] to make the presentation as good as possible, afterall it is worth a considerable number of points in your overall degree?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/she needs to use the time to catch up_reconvene in a couple of days when Marts should have the.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Working Late at Night">
As with any missed work due to illness, it is up to you to catch up or suffer the consequences. Marta returns to the group having been working into the small hours the night before to complete her task. It greatly improves the overall presentation which now flows beautifully. You thank Marta. Her icy stare and monosyllabic interaction informs her opinion of you.
Sometimes team leaders need to make difficult decisions. [[You're ready for your presentation]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/each take on a little extra responsibility_responsibility2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Group Study Session">
Marta seems so grateful that a little extra work has been shouldered by the others and promises to deliver some excellent work. Bob and Hannah are not too impressed now they have a couple of hours of unplanned extra work ahead of them but you remind them the alternative was for everyone to receive a lower graded presentation.
By the time you meet again you've all needed to do a couple of late nights and Marta has worked through the night to make sure her part is as thorough as possible. She is determined to make it up to the group. The presentation is assembled and it flows beautifully. You look at each other and you just know this is worthy of a top mark. [[You're ready for your presentation|ready for your presentation2]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/she needs to use the time to catch up_reconvene in a couple of days when Marts should have the.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Working Late at Night">
As with any missed work due to illness, it is up to you to catch up or suffer the consequences. Marta returns to the group having been working into the small hours for a few nights before to complete her task. It greatly improves the overall presentation which now flows beautifully. You thank Marta. Her icy stare and monosyllabic interaction informs her opinion of you.
Sometimes team leaders need to make difficult decisions. [[You're ready for your presentation|your presentation3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/responsibility2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Communing">
Marta seems so grateful that a little extra work has been shouldered by the others but you're not sure you can get it all done in the dwindling time available. Bob and Hannah are unhappy at being told they each now have a couple of hours of unplanned extra work. You remind them the alternative is for all of them to receive a lower graded presentation but they they still complain that the extra work time will be detrimental to their other assignments.
By the time you meet again you've all needed to do a couple of late nights and Marta has worked through the night to make sure her part is as thorough as possible. She is determined to make it up to the group. The presentation is assembled and it flows pretty well, under the circumstances. It will have to do and the group is keen to just get it over and done with. [[You're ready for your presentation|ready for your presentation4]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/youre ready for your presentation_ready for your presentation4.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Group of Students">
Three days later than planned, your seminar group gathers to see your presentation. Each member of your group talks through their research and opinions and answers all of the questions posed. Marta is less than enthusiastic about her section and deliberately contradicts some of the items you discussed.
After receiving a good grading you propose to celebrate with hot Belgian waffles topped with lashings of sugary goodies in the Origins Bar. Marta declines but Bob and Hannah join you. Bob congratulates you for trying to sort out all the problems and ensuring each person sticks to their tasks.
You decide to call it a day and head back home to clear up the mounting floordrobe you've been growing plus you haven't cleaned your kitchen or bathroom for 2 weeks.
As you pass the Kent Union shop [[Zak comes out and spots you]].
<img src="images/passages/ready for your presentation2_your presentation3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Row of Students">
Three days later than planned, your seminar group gathers to see your presentation. Each member of your group talks enthusiastically through their research and opinions and answers all of the questions posed.
After receiving a top grading you propose to celebrate with hot Belgian waffles topped with lashings of sugary goodies in the Origins Bar. Bob congratulates you for trying to sort out all the problems and Marta thanks you for helping her out in her hour of need.
You decide to call it a day and head back home to clear up the mounting floordrobe you've been growing plus you haven't cleaned your kitchen or bathroom for 2 weeks.
As you pass the Kent Union shop [[Zak comes out and spots you]].<img src="images/passages/ready for your presentation2_your presentation3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Row of Students">
Your seminar group gathers to see your presentation as planned. Each member of your group talks through their research and opinions and answers most of the questions posed. Marta is less than enthusiastic about her section and deliberately contradicts some of the items you discussed. You frown as this opens up the group to further scrutiny by the seminar leader.
After receiving a lesser grading than you had hoped you propose to console yourselves with hot Belgian waffles topped with lashings of sugary goodies in the Origins Bar. Marta declines but Bob and Hannah join you. Bob congratulates you for trying to sort out all the problems and ensuring each person sticks to their tasks.
You decide to call it a day and head back home to clear up the mounting floordrobe you've been growing plus you haven't cleaned your kitchen or bathroom for 2 weeks.
As you pass the Kent Union shop [[Zak comes out and spots you]].<img src="images/passages/youre ready for your presentation_ready for your presentation4.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Group of Students">
Your seminar group gathers as planned to see your presentation. Each member of your group talks enthusiastically through their research and opinions and manages to answer most of the questions posed. You've winged it for sure, but you're happy with the outcome.
After receiving a good grading you propose to celebrate with hot Belgian waffles topped with lashings of sugary goodies in the Origins Bar. Bob congratulates you for trying to sort out all the problems and Marta thanks you for helping her out in her hour of need.
You decide to call it a day and head back home to clear up the mounting floordrobe you've been growing plus you haven't cleaned your kitchen or bathroom for 2 weeks.
As you pass the Kent Union shop [[Zak comes out and spots you]].<img src="images/passages/Zak comes out and spots you.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="3D Printer">
It's so great to see him again. He tells you he is something of a reformed character and is attending everything this year, hoping to chase down that First Class degree. He is also the chair of his school's Tinkering Society (TinkerSoc) where they get to use a dedicated building to make stuff using all sorts of amazing hardware and devices such as 3-D printers and lathes.
Zak and his friends have totally pulled apart a mobility scooter and reprogrammed it to do all sorts of mad manoeuvres. He asks if you want to go and test it out. Do you [[defer your home tidying and cleaning duties]] to check out Zak's invention or decide you've had enough drama for one day and [[tell Zak you'll catch up another time]]?<img src="images/passages/send work so far2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Scrunched Up Paper">
It takes Mahat two days to respond. He claims he has some sort of flu but hasn't been able to go to the doctors. He has been too ill to even read in bed and his notes to date are too scatty to email. He assures you he will have caught up by next week to start assembling the presentation.
Do you email your school to [[find out if you can get an extension|get an extension2]] to the deadline due to Mahat's illness or [[carry on as planned|carry on as planned2]] as the rest of you have not been poorly?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/seek advice from module convenor_advice from module convenor2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Module Convenor">
After your next seminar, you locate the module convenor and ask for their advice. Two weeks into the presentation task and one of your team members has contributed nothing. The convenor explains that this is a common problem with group work and that it is the team leader's job to schedule, motivate and re-plan work as necessary. He reminds you that you may be eligible for an extension if Mahat's illness continues to cause disruption but he will, in the meantime, make a note that you're having these issues within the group. You decide to [[carry on as planned|carry on as planned2]] for the time being.
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/carry on as planned_carry on as planned2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lego man at Desk">
By the time you next meet, Mahat is nowhere to be seen. Brian says he's sure he spotted Mahat out at The Venue the other evening. The presentation doesn't have enough content and you're running out of time. The only solution is for the rest of the group to take on extra tasks to get the presentation anywhere near good enough.
Brian and Leila become increasingly agitated. They point the finger at you for not being able to plan and chase work effectively and claim they simply don't have enough time to do the extra work due to their other assignments. They refuse to do any of Mahat's work.
Do you [[try and complete the extra work yourself]] to keep the team on track, [[send a very curt message to Mahat]] demanding the necessary work from him otherwise you'll report him or [[go back and speak to your module convenor]]?
<img src="images/passages/find out if you can get an extension_get an extension2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Receptionist">
Later that day you get a reply from Philippa, the school support coordinator. Philippa has discussed the matter with the module convenor. In light of the fact Mahat doesn't have any medical note to confirm his illness they are unable to apply an extension at this stage.
You email Mahat and ask him to get a doctors note but he doesn't reply. The time is marching away and a quarter of the research is untouched. You call an [[urgent meeting with Brian and Leila]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/urgent meeting with Brian and Leila.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Coffee and Work">
By the time you meet Brian and Leila there is still no news from Mahat, although Brian says he's sure he spotted him out at The Venue the other evening. The presentation doesn't have enough content and you're running out of time. The only solution is for the rest of the group to take on extra tasks to get the presentation anywhere near good enough.
Brian and Leila become increasingly agitated. They point the finger at you for not being able to plan and chase work effectively and claim they simply don't have enough time to do the extra work due to their other assignments. They refuse to do any of Mahat's work.
Do you [[try and complete the extra work yourself]] to keep the team on track, [[send a very curt message to Mahat]] demanding the necessary work from him otherwise you'll report him or [[go back and speak to your module convenor]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/try and complete the extra work yourself.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Working Hard">
You can count on two hands the number of hours sleep you get over the next week. It is a lot of extra reading, perhaps you had given too much to Mahat? It's not your finest work but at least it means the team presentation is complete.
By the time you meet Brian and Leila again (still no sign of Mahat who ironically has a meeting with his Senior Tutor about his lack of attendance instead) you have enough material to put the presentation together. Brian and Leila are impressed with what you appear to have achieved and Leila uses her creative skills to make the presentation look incredibly professional. [[You're ready for your presentation|ready for your presentation5]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/send a very curt message to Mahat.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Working Together">
In your email you tell Mahat in no uncertain terms that if he is uable to supply his necessary part of the presentation then you'll be forced to speak to the module convenor and have him removed from the group, leaving him ungraded for that assignment.
Mahat responds promptly and confirms he will have something to include for the presentation although he hasn't been able to spend as much time on it as he would like.
At the end of the week you all meet to put the presentation together. Mahat's arguements are weak, but it is too late to do anything about it now and you [[agree to deliver the presentation with what you have]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/go back and speak to your module convenor.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Module Convenor">
Your seminar leader is sympathetic to your concerns and says that Mahat's involvement will be taken into account and will become apparent during the delivery of the presentation.
By the time you meet Brian and Leila again at the end of the week there is still no Mahat (who has emailed to say he has a meeting with his Senior Tutor about his lack of attendance instead!). You make the decision to go with what you have and Leila uses her creative skills to make the presentation look incredibly professional. [[You're ready for your presentation|ready for your presentation6]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/ready for your presentation5.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Row of Students">
Your seminar group gathers to see your presentation as planned. Even Mahat turns up and tells you he is ready to join in with the presentation. Do you [[let him join in]] and provide a united front or [[tell him to sit back down]] as he hasn't contributed anything to the group's work?
<img src="images/passages/let him join in.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Row of Students">
The team members decide to give him the benefit of the doubt and help ensure he doesn't receive a zero grade. It's clear from the delivery that he knows next to nothing about the topic and the rest of the team pick up all the tricky questions whilst Mahat stands red-faced and as much use as a football bat.
After receiving a reasonable grading you propose to celebrate with hot Belgian waffles topped with lashings of sugary goodies in the Origins Bar. Mahat declines but Brian and Leila join you. Brian congratulates you for trying to sort out the problems with Mahat and taking on extra work.
You decide to call it a day and head back home to clear up the mounting floordrobe you've been growing plus you haven't cleaned your kitchen or bathroom for 2 weeks.
As you pass the Kent Union shop [[Zak comes out and spots you]].<img src="images/passages/tell him to sit back down.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Presentation">
Thanks to Mahat, you have eye bags the size of the Cardiff and you're in no mood to make him feel better. He lifts his jaw off the floor and sheepishly sits back down.
The rest of the group talks through their research and opinions and answers most of the questions posed. It goes pretty well and afterwards the seminar leader asks why Mahat had not been involved. You leave it to Mahat to squirm and unconvincingly share his catalogue of weak excuses.
After receiving a lesser grading than you had hoped you propose to Brian and Leila that you console yourselves with hot Belgian waffles topped with lashings of sugary goodies in the Origins Bar. They agree and Brian congratulates you for trying to sort out all the problems and taking on the extra work. Leila feels awkward that Mahat will receive a zero grading but your conscience is clear.
You decide to call it a day and head back home to clear up the mounting floordrobe you've been growing plus you haven't cleaned your kitchen or bathroom for 2 weeks.
As you pass the Kent Union shop [[Zak comes out and spots you]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/agree to deliver the presentation with what you have.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student delivering a presentation">
Your seminar group gathers to see your presentation as planned. Each member of your group talks through their research and opinions and answers most of the questions posed. Mahat is less than enthusiastic about his section which seems to contradict some of the items you discuss. You frown as this opens up the group to further scrutiny by the seminar leader.
After receiving a lesser grading than you had hoped you propose to console yourselves with hot Belgian waffles topped with lashings of sugary goodies in the Origins Bar. Mahat declines but Brian and Leila join you. Brian congratulates you for trying to sort out all the problems and ensuring each person sticks to their tasks.
You decide to call it a day and head back home to clear up the mounting floordrobe you've been growing plus you haven't cleaned your kitchen or bathroom for 2 weeks.
As you pass the Kent Union shop [[Zak comes out and spots you]].<img src="images/passages/ready for your presentation6.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Row of Students">
On the day of the presentation the seminar group assembles to watch your performance. As expected, there is no Mahat and you're as angry as a pigeon in a handbag.
The rest of the group talks through their research and opinions and answers most of the questions posed. It goes pretty well and afterwards the seminar leader asks why Mahat had not been involved. You leave no stone unturned when cataloging how your attempts to engage Mahat are met with constant refusal.
After receiving a lesser grading than you had hoped you propose to Brian and Leila that you console yourselves with hot Belgian waffles topped with lashings of sugary goodies in the Origins Bar. They agree and Brian congratulates you for trying to sort out all the problems and taking on the extra work. Leila feels awkward that Mahat will receive a zero grading but your conscience is clear.
You decide to call it a day and head back home to clear up the mounting floordrobe you've been growing plus you haven't cleaned your kitchen or bathroom for 2 weeks.
As you pass the Kent Union shop [[Zak comes out and spots you]].
<img src="images/passages/defer your home tidying and cleaning duties.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Shed Maker Space">
The Shed, it turns out, is a misleading term for the building which is a purpose built modern 'maker-space' packed to the gills with fascinating equipment. A group of students are currently huddled around the various 3-D printers which are designing some modern chainmail clothing for a forthcoming textiles exhibition.
Zak reveals his mobility scooter device. It looks menacing without its trademark shopping basket and handlebars, which have now been replaced with an XBox controller. The padded seat taped on top of an over-sized battery and the addition of a blue flashing light and red-eyed demon face drawn in the front bumper confirm that this is no longer a sedentary mode of transport.
You help Zak wheel it outside. He attaches the pathetic looking seat belt and tightens his crash helmet. XBox controller in hand, he makes his first mistake by going backwards into the hydrangea bushes at such speed only the demon face is momentarily visible. You scoff at his misfortune but he soon has it moving forwards and is attempting a donut in the car park. His body is slumped sideways as he tries to counteract the centrifugal force. This, you decide, is the future.
Zak offers you a turn on the scooter. Do you say [[yes, you only live once]] or [[no, you fully intend to be alive for your graduation]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/tell Zak youll catch up another time.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Shed">
Before you leave, Zak tells you about the careers fair next week on campus. There are going to be lots of potential employers to meet and Zak wants to impress some of them with his inventions. You tell him you're going too so you'll probably see him there.
You leave Zak to his scooter and [[walk back to your apartment]] to give it a much needed clean.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/yes you only live once.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Modified Electric Scooter">
Before you change your mind, you're strapped to the seat with crash helmet on at a jaunty angle. After a mere 20 second training session Zak tells you to press the green 'A' button. This sets in motion a pre-programmed performance that sees you intermittently jolting backwards and forward, throwing your limbs around like a bunch of sausages. The friction of your backside against the seat provides a most unpleasant heating effect. Zak is doubled over and laughing like a kettle. Eventually the scooter comes to a halt and Zak unclips you. It takes a few moments for you to find your land legs again but you do eventually admit that was excellent fun!
Zak tells you about the careers fair next week on campus and says he wants to go and speak to some potential employers about his inventions. You tell him you're going too so you'll probably see him there.
You leave Zak to his scooter and cautiously [[walk back to your apartment]] to give it a much needed clean.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/yes you only live once.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Modified Electric Scooter">
Zak shrugs and proceeds to demonstrate some of his pre-programmed scooter moves. He clicks one of the buttons on the controller and the scooter immediately jolts into action. With arms up in the air, Zak intermittently jolts backwards and forwards, throwing his limbs around like a bunch of sausages. You can't help but double over and laugh like a kettle. Eventually the scooter comes to a halt and Zak unclips himself. It takes a few moments for him to be able to walk properly again. You congratulate him on his excellent invention!
Zak tells you about the careers fair next week on campus and says he wants to go and speak to some potential employers about his creations. You tell him you're going too so you'll probably see him there.
You leave Zak to his scooter and [[walk back to your apartment]] to give it a much needed clean.<img src="images/passages/walk back to your apartment.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Small Kitchen">
You had no idea that burnt on pasta sauce can bond so tightly to the top of a cooker. Or the tile splash back. Or the roller blind. And it was enlightening how much mystery debris your shower plug hole had collected over two weeks. Finally, your castle is looking stately again. It seems a shame to ruin it, but you've got a new jar of seasoning you're pretty sure is going to transform some plum tomatoes into mulligatawny soup. It doesn't take long before the kitchen is peppered with red splattered sauce again.
Your phone pings. It's a message from Bob. She is driving some friends over to Whitstable for the evening and wants to know if you'd like to come along too. Whitstable? As far as you were aware, it is just a sleepy seaside town 5 miles away where folk like eating oysters (yuk).
Do you say [[yes, why not]], you've never been there or [[no, you don't like oysters or the sea]] very much, thanks anyway?<img src="images/passages/yes, why not.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Whitstable Oyster Co.">
It is late afternoon by the time Bob parks her pristine Fiat Panda in the harbour carpark, having stuck rigidly to the speed limit all the way there. You, Bob, Hannah and Bob's friend Tobias (a budding comedian who spent the entire journey cracking jokes about fabric softener) climb out of the car. Numerous black huts around the harbour's edge are still open and selling intriguing products and crafts as well as oysters for which the town is famous (Tobias: why don't oysters give to charity? Because they're shellfish!). Busy people are tending to boats and moving stock about. You spot a boat called "Nautiboy". The place is heaving with walkers and joggers (Tobias: I once tried jogging; I ran 5 miles every day for 1 month. After 30 days I was lost and 150 miles from home). Everyone living in the vicinity has come out for their quota of fresh air.
Bob guides you beyond the harbour and sailing club to the long, wide shingle beach. The sky is streaked with all shades of orange, pink and red. It's one of the best sunsets you've ever seen. Passing a beach side restaurant, you each purchase a box of deliciously greasy, crispy chips. Bob has cleverly picked an evening when the tide was low. It reveals an unexpected shingle 'road' stretching out into the sea. You wander along the strange road for what seems like miles out into the sea. The view back to shore is postcard perfect; an arrangement of colourful beach huts crouch onto the grassy bank and nod to the sun now slumped on the horizon.
[[Why hadn't you discovered Whitstable before]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/yes, why not.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Whitstable Oyster Co.">
You realise that you haven't actually explored the East Kent area at all since you've been at university and you make a note to yourself to check out the bus and train timetables at some point to take advantage of the options available.
The following week is [[the careers fair]].<img src="images/passages/Why hadn't you discovered Whitstable before.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Whitstable Beach Huts">
The four of you amble back to the beach and spend what remains of the evening exploring the town's quirky shops and bars as well as the modern castle (Tobias: I tried reading a book once about a castle with the drawbridge up, but I couldn't get into it). You make a note to catch the bus to Whitstable again - there is a direct service from the university.
Bob eventually runs everyone back to Canterbury in her car and you thank her for a brilliant evening, even if the jokes from Tobias were starting to wear thin.
The following week is [[the careers fair]].<img src="images/passages/the careers fair.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Careers Fair">
The careers fair is run each year by the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Careers and Employability Service">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. They are hosting an impressive number of employers who are keen to showcase their graduate schemes, placements, internships or even just insight days.
As you enter the main sports hall the place is buzzing with eye-catching displays and chatter. Numerous tables are littered with freebies and leaflets. Each company 'stall' is surrounded by a gaggle of students and company staff. Every single discipline is seemingly catered for with some companies being interested in multiple disciplines and subjects. You can see why they offer a quieter 'accessible hour' earlier in the day now for those with mental health, anxiety or disability issues.
It is difficult to know who to approach first. You check the email from CES which lists companies of interest that match your degree type. It's not long before you spot Zak deep in conversation with a woman at the BAE Systems stand. Best not interrupt.
You don't know how to muscle in on some of these groups or what to say. You have a [[look at the CES email again]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/look at the CES email again.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="PWC at the Careers Fair">
The email from CES lists all the companies who are looking to employ graduates studying your type of degree plus a host of others who are keen to employ from any discipline. You can see familiar companies such as PWC and Deloitte, News International and Teach First, as well as more specialist ones such as Global Media and GCHQ.
You decide to work through your list, you've heard that making contact with companies at this fair will effectively fast track any subsequent job application you may make to them. You're already familiar with the background of some of the companies having done a bit of research first, so you head over to the first one.
A staff member spots you loitering. Do you [[go over and start a conversation]] or [[smile, grab a free sweet and move on]], as it isn't your first choice of employer anyway? <img src="images/passages/go over and start a conversation.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Careers Counter">
You tell them your name, what you're studying and that you're keen to develop skills in the areas that interest you. You ask them what schemes they have available for graduates such as yourself. Wow, that was quite easy! The member of staff seems to like your direct approach. You jot down the advice given and she notes your details. She offers you a leaflet about the company and you ask her why she enjoys working there. She answers enthusiastically and, to be fair, the company just went up in your personal opinion poll, but not yet onto your best friend list.
You thank her for her time and move to the next stall mentioned on your email. The conversations get easier with each company you visit and you're pleased to have saved [[the company you are most interested in]] to the end.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/smile grab a free sweet and move on.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Careers Fair Counter">
Eventually you spot a stall on your list that isn't under an avalache of students. You weren't particularly interested in a career in the Royal Navy, but you're willing to look willing.
With your best fake smile, you introduce yourself awkwardly. The staff member can smell your nerves and immediately starts their patter about the different careers avaiable in the Navy. Apparently it's not just about tying knots and throwing up overboard! You start asking questions about the details of the different schemes and find that, actually, the conversation is pretty easy. You gratefully accept a leaflet and an Army and Navy sweet (obviously) and thank the staff member for their time before moving further around the hall.
Eventually you locate [[the company you are most interested in]].<img src="images/passages/the company you are most interested in.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Careers Fair">
So here is the Civil Service stand. It looks very official with a large black and white banner behind it. It's one of the companies who is interested in everything from cyber security to HR to media to IT systems.
A young man in smart trousers with rolled up shirt sleeves and flawlessly coiffured hair acknowledges you. He holds up his civil service ID card attached to his neck by a bright red lanyard and introduces himself as Jean-Paul. He is a million miles away from the middle-aged, grey-suited, grey-haired representative you were anticipating. He takes your details and asks about your course. You describe the areas that you are most passionate about but confess that you're not sure how this directly translates into a career. This comment kick starts what could possibly be [[the most important 20 minutes of your life so far]].
<img src="images/passages/the most important 20 minutes of your life.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Careers Fair">
Jean-Paul knows his stuff and recounts all the different jobs that overlap with your chosen area of interest. He explains how his organisation is facing new challenges that graduates are particularly well placed to address. Given your research interests, had you considered looking into doing a dissertation focused on one of these areas which could directly assist you in your career search? It's a long piece of work but it will really allow you to stretch your legs into a research area of your choosing and showcase your real interests. You hadn't made this correlation between specific study topics and career selection. Furthermore, Jean-Paul said his organisation are often willing to work with under- and post-graduates on certain relevant research topics which could be further enhanced with various workshadow opportunities to put your research into practice.
You ponder the dissertation option versus undertaking other module combinations next term. The discussion about your topic area has really whetted your appetite.
Do you agree to [[pursue the dissertation/research/workstudy offer]] with Jean-Paul or tell him that [[you haven't thought that far ahead yet]] but will get back in contact if you change your mind next term?
<img src="images/passages/pursue the dissertation research workstudy offer.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="itv Careers Fair">
This is too good an opportunity to pass up. You could potentially get to finish your degree researching something you really love whilst at the same time interacting with a potential employer and improving your chances of getting a job. Jean-Paul is delighted and asks you to send him your dissertation proposal when you are ready to get involved so he can put you in touch with the relevant people.
A wave of anxiety sweeps over you, it all sounds so official and spur of the moment but you reassure yourself that this is potentially the start of the next exciting stage in your life.
He asks you whether you'd be interested in attending an insight day at one of their premises in London. It's an opportunity to see the jobs in action and speak with those who have been through the process before you. You worry about putting all your eggs in one basket at this stage and don't want to commit yourself to a specific job right now.
Do you [[decline the offer to join an insight day]] or [[sign-up for the day trip]] in the hope of picking up some good tips, if nothing else?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/you havent thought that far ahead yet.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Networking Gathering">
You haven't even had the chance to find out what modules are available next term and you don't want to risk missing out on something new. You thank Jean-Paul and take his contact details just in case you do indeed decide to do a dissertation next term.
On your way out you [[bump into Zak]].<img src="images/passages/bump into Zak.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Food Counter">
Zak is looking mighty pleased with himself and asks if you fancy going over to Woody's for a drink and so he can share all the juicy details about his careers chat.
You don't have any lectures for the next half hour but also had wanted to go to make an appointment to see your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ whilst the careers advice is still fresh in your mind.
Do you [[go to Woody's]] or tell Zak [[you'll catch him later]] and go to your school to book an appointment with your Academic Adviser?<img src="images/passages/decline the offer to join an insight day.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Path">
You make it clear that you're still keen to keep in contact with the organisation but that, as you're not sure of your career direction right now, it would be better to offer the insight place to another candidate.
You thank Jean-Paul, take his contact details and promise to be in touch in the next few weeks regarding the dissertation.
On your way out you [[bump into Zak]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/sign up for the day trip.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Career Get Started Now Sign">
You're not exactly sure what you've let yourself in for, but it is something to put on your CV and talk about in future interviews. Who knows where it might lead? The date isn't until early in the New Year and is well beyond all of this term's deadlines so it won't be disruptive.
You thank Jean-Paul, take his contact details and promise to be in touch in the next few weeks regarding the dissertation.
You perform one more quick pass of all the stalls, grabbing a few pens and sweets as you go. On your way out of the sports hall you [[bump into Zak]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/go to Woody's.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woodys Complex">
Zak orders two mugs of tea - it's unusual seeing him with anything other than a can of beer in his hand. Not only has he organised himself a work experience week with Microsoft but it also looks like he has got an interview for the Graduate Recruitment Scheme at BAE Systems based on the project work he has completed already. It dawns on you that you'll be finishing university in less than 8 months so it is imperative to start planning what you want to do next and how to get there.
Zak has a clear focus and he is going to be using the free CV writing and interview practice sessions at CES to hone his technique for a better chance of success. He is also making sure that the project work he does from now on has a direct relevance to his preferred career as this will boost his chances of being interviewed.
You tell Zak about your more meagre success at the careers fair and your thoughts about the dissertation idea. Zak thinks it's a great suggestion and impresses on you the importance of taking advantage of opportunities like that and to make new contacts.
Before long it is time to walk over to Sibson building for your [[afternoon of lectures]]. But you promise Zak you'll see him at the foam party at the Venue next week.
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/you'll catch him later.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jo The Receptionist">
You agree to catch up next week at the foam party in The Venue.
Standing in your school reception, you are wondering whether Jo, the receptionist, is in some sort of secret competition to see how loudly she can eat a packet of crisps. Not only does she laboriously wrestle each crisp out of the crinkly bag but she eats each crisp by taking rabbit-like micro-munches. It's a good job she doesn't share an office. She brushes the debris trail of slaughtered crisps off her grey jumper when she sees you.
She books an appointment for you to see Prof. Mark Partridge at the end of the week as you need a longer booking than is normally available in his office hour.
Jo is already resuming her crisp attack [[by the time you leave reception]].
<img src="images/passages/afternoon of lectures.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Reception Desk">
Following your lectures you quickly call in to your school to make an appointment to see your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@.
Standing in your school reception, you are wondering whether Jo, the receptionist, is in some sort of secret competition to see how loudly she can eat a packet of crisps. Not only does she laboriously wrestle each crisp out of the crinkly bag but she eats each crisp by taking rabbit-like micro-munches. It's a good job she doesn't share an office. She brushes the debris trail of slaughtered crisps off her grey jumper when she sees you.
She books an appointment for you to see Prof. Mark Partridge at the end of the week as you need a longer booking than is normally available in his office hour.
Jo is already resuming her crisp attack [[by the time you leave reception]].<img src="images/passages/by the time you leave reception.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
By the time you see Prof. Mark you've already done some reading about the area of the Civil Service that interests you and dissertations in general.
Prof. Mark's office isn't nearly as chaotic as it was last time. At least the guest chair is easier to spot. You tell him about your experience at the careers fair and your dilemma about the dissertation versus new modules. Prof. Mark brings up your latest @@.serviceLink;<<link "Progress Profile">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ on screen. He shows that there are key areas where you clearly excel and, not only that, but your $assignmentType marks are especially high showing a propensity for a dissertation-like study.
Given that your area of interest overlaps with Prof. Mark's research topic, he offers to be your dissertation supervisor. This means he will be on hand to provide guidance in terms of ideas and staying on track. He suggests you write a short proposal for your dissertation and send this to him for approval before sending it in turn to Jean-Paul at the Civil Service.
He finishes by discussing the alternative module choices for next term, some of which sound interesting but are not directly related to the career path you have in mind. The choice has been made - [[you'll be doing a dissertation]]!
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/youll be doing a dissertation.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Foam Party">
This plan of action for the future gives you renewed enthusiasm and a goal to clearly aim for. You email Jean-Paul who responds quickly and requests sight of your dissertation proposal as soon as you complete it.
The following Friday night you go over to The Venue for the infamous foam party and meet Zak as planned. Zak in turn has pursuaded Saffa to join them who has dragged her friend Killian (visiting from France) along. Killian hasn't been to a foam party before and you don't know enough French to explain to him the importance of not standing in 'the sweet spot' where the foam cannons converge. DJ Jezza is playing a variety of banging music tracks and the crowd are loving it. It puts a smile on your face to see Saffa relaxed and having so much fun.
You point 'the sweet spot' out to Killian who, lost in translation, insists on standing right there just moments before the cannons open fire. The foam spew begins and it doesn't take long before Killian disappears from view, arms flailing up in the air before sinking beneath the white waves.
Do you [[wade in and save him]] or observe from the sidelines and hope he [[eventually materialises of his own accord]]?<img src="images/passages/wade in and save him.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Foam Party">
Ordinarily, you wouldn't be doing this but Saffa was suitably concerned for Killian's welfare and you do hold some mild responsibility for having pointed out the spot to him earlier.
Within moments, you have located Killian's leg and haul him with relative ease across the slippery floor to the sidelines. It's hard to read the expression on his face given that foam rests both on and beneath his glasses and he is busy removing his bulbous foam beard. He thanks you for his daring rescue, Saffa hugs you and Zak has only just stopped wiping the tears of hysterical laughter from his face.
As luck would have it, the whole episode has been caught on camera from the above balcony by the Kent Television (KTV) team so you'll be looking to re-watch that on YouTube or Facebook later.
Killian survives the rest of the foam party and doesn't venture near the sweet spot again, happy to just be next to Saffa on one of the sofas.
By the time you make it [[back to your bed]] your clothes are sodden, your head is ringing from the music and your body is filled with positive exhaustion.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/eventually materialises of his own accord.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Foam Party">
Zak is swaying back and forth in waves of hysterical laughter. Most of the floor is now knee if not waist high in foam apart from this one montain of foam concealing Killian. He could walk in any direction and soon be above foam height. You stare at the white mass for what seems like hours. Saffa voices her concern for Killian's welfare but you reassure her Killian will be loving this typically English experience.
Eventually Killian crawls out on all fours and gets to his feet. It's hard to read the expression on his face given that foam rests both on and beneath his glasses and he is busy removing his bulbous foam beard. As luck would have it, the whole episode has been caught on camera from the above balcony by the Kent Television (KTV) team so you'll be looking to re-watch that on YouTube or Facebook later.
Killian survives the the rest of the foam party and doesn't venture near the sweet spot again, happy to just be next to Saffa on one of the sofas.
By the time you make it [[back to your bed]] your clothes are sodden, your head is ringing from the music and your body is filled with positive exhaustion. <img src="images/passages/back to your bed.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Careers & Employability Service">
Over the weekend you do your weekly check of imminent events on the university event calendar. You're shocked to see so many events run by the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Careers and Employability Service">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ this month. In addition to the careers fair, throughout the month they are also running a multitude of workshops including CV and cover letter writing, how to identify your preferred career using your interests, skill sets and experience to date as well as how to promote yourself as a brand in your own right. Each time you attend an event you earn Employability Points which can be exchanged for all sorts of training sessions, company experiences or vouchers.
There is a CV and cover letter writing course running shortly, do you want to [[book yourself onto the one hour course]] to pick up some do and don't tips or do you want to [[see how things pan out with your Civil Service contacts]]?<img src="images/passages/book yourself onto the one hour course.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Careers & Employability Service">
The course is only an hour, you've collected more Employability Points (if only you'd known about these earlier as you could have collected so many more by now) and you can get a head start on sorting out your CV.
The course is run by a smiley, softly spoken man called Mike Ake. Ironically, he starts off his presentation by offering a plate of cake slices around to boost everyone's sugar levels.
You thought your current CV was good but now you see it in a new light, full of common errors and not properly selling yourself. Mike gives some super clever tips for how to phrase skills and keep information condensed but informative and professional. That bloke is a CV wizard!
That evening [[you go home to re-jig your CV]] accordingly whilst the advice is still fresh in your mind.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/see how things pan out with your civil service contacts.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Postgraduate Information">
Depending on Jean-Paul's networking skills, you wonder if you'll even need to write a CV. Besides, there is a lot of advice on CV writing on the Kent website so you'll manage.
In the meantime, you're tied up with getting the rest of your <<print $assignmentType>>s completed before Christmas as well as attending everything that is going on, you don't want to miss out on any more opportunities in these last few months.
Colourful banners around the university campus advertise the postgraduate fair. It's on a Wednesday afternoon which clashes with the boxercise classes at the sports centre that you've recently discovered (great for stress busting and creating a six-pack; yours is still very much work in progress). Bob also mentions it to you at the next seminar.
Do you [[go with Bob and take a look]] at what's on offer or [[rule out postgrad study for now]], you're too focused on that career end goal?<img src="images/passages/message from saffa_message from saffa2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Phone">
She's back in the UK. Being abroad was a step too far for her at the moment and she has been allowed to surrender the year abroad component of her degree following deep discussions with her school. She is angry at herself after looking forward to the opportunity for so long. Tiz on the other hand is having a blast at the Paris campus and has settled into her French studies with ease.
She asks to meet up with you. Do you put your project to one side for a couple of hours and [[meet Saffa]] or do you promise to catch up with her at a later point [[once your project is out of the way]]?
<img src="images/passages/meet saffa.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mungo's Bar and Bistro">
Saffa knocks the wind out of you, such is the strength of the hug she gives when you meet at Mungo's. You can tell from her wobbly voice that she has been through the mill this last couple of weeks but you reassure her that being back at Kent was the right choice and you're happy to meet up regularly. Her smile tells you everything. You both pick at a plate of chips as she details her trials and tribulations. The only positive seems to have been a student she met over there, Killian, who took her under his wing. She is in regular contact (in French) and hopes that he can come and visit soon.
Having missed the several weeks of the term already, Saffa needs to wait until the following academic year to start her stage 3. In the meantime, she has arranged to work full time at a nearby nursery to earn some money and decent work experience. She isn't happy about putting her studies on hold until the next academic year but you tell her that at least she will be graduating with Tiz next year as planned. She grabs your hand but her words of thanks hide behind a mouthful of chips.
You fill her in on your news, work and apartment and agree to meet up again soon. It doesn't take long before you are both [[back in the rhythm]] of lectures and assignments.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/once your project is out of the way_once your project is out of the way2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Studying">
You can tell by the curt reply that Saffa is a little upset at your response. She realises you're busy with work but she really wants to see you. She lets you know you she will be working full time at a nearby nursery in the meantime as she has missed too much work to be able to re-join stage 3 until next academic year. You message back with a firm date and promise to meet her in a couple of weeks. You need to get [[back in the rhythm]] of staying focused as these next few months are important.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/message from saffa_message from saffa2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Phone">
She's back in the UK. Being abroad was a step too far for her at the moment and she has been allowed to surrender the year abroad component of her degree following deep discussions with her school. She is angry at herself after looking forward to the opportunity for so long. Tiz on the other hand is having a blast at the Paris campus and has settled into her French studies with ease.
She asks to meet up with you. Do you put your project to one side for a couple of hours and [[meet Saffa|meet Saffa2]] or do you promise to catch up with her at a later point [[once your project is out of the way|once your project is out of the way2]]?
<img src="images/passages/meet saffa.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mungo's Bar and Bistro">
Saffa knocks the wind out of you, such is the strength of the hug she gives when you meet at Mungo's. You can tell from her wobbly voice that she has been through the mill this last few weeks but you reassure her that being back at Kent was the right choice and you're happy to meet up regularly. Her smile tells you everything. You both pick at a plate of chips as she details her trials and tribulations. The only positive seems to have been a student she met over there, Killian, who took her under his wing. She is in regular contact (in French) and hopes that he can come and visit soon.
Having missed the several weeks of the term already, Saffa needs to wait until the following academic year to start her stage 3. In the meantime, she has arranged to work full time at a nearby nursery to earn some money and decent work experience. She isn't happy about putting her studies on hold until the next academic year but you tell her that at least she will be graduating with Tiz next year as planned. She grabs your hand but her words of thanks hide behind a mouthful of chips.
You fill her in on your news, work and apartment and agree to meet up again soon. It doesn't take long before you are both [[back in the rhythm|back in the rhythm2]] of lectures and assignments.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/once your project is out of the way_once your project is out of the way2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Studying">
You can tell by the curt reply that Saffa is a little upset at your response. She realises you're busy with work but she really wants to see you. She lets you know you she will be working full time at a nearby nursery in the meantime as she has missed too much work to be able to re-join stage 3 until next academic year. You message back with a firm date and promise to meet her in a couple of weeks. You need to get [[back in the rhythm|back in the rhythm2]] of staying focused as these next few months are important.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/back in the rhythm.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lecture Theatre">
The next week passes in a blur of seminars and lectures. More assignments are set. You're going to really need to do some careful time management to stay on top of things now.
Do you want to [[use the Assignment Survival Toolkit|ASK2]] to help set some deadlines ensuring you don't leave everything to the last minute or do you want to [[just get one assignment done at a time|one at a time2]]?<img src="images/passages/go home to rejig your cv.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Campus">
You're now tied up with getting the rest of your <<print $assignmentType>>s completed before Christmas as well as attending everything that is going on, you don't want to miss out on any more opportunities in these last few months.
Colourful banners around the university campus advertise the postgraduate fair. It's on a Wednesday afternoon which clashes with the boxercise classes at the sports centre that you've recently discovered (great for stress busting and creating a six-pack; yours is still very much work in progress). Bob also mentions it to you at the next seminar.
Do you [[go with Bob and take a look]] at what's on offer or [[rule out postgrad study for now]], you're too focused on that career end goal?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/go with Bob and take a look.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Postgraduate Festival">
Bob has already decided that she fancies doing a PhD. She loves research and can visualise herself in an academic role in future, sharing her passion for research with others. Something tells you she is going to be a huge success - one of those academics who is always on the TV giving their advice and insight on controversial topics.
The thought of studying at university for another 3 or more years sounds really daunting; however, a Masters degree can be as little as one year and is ideal for those who want to specialise further. You might just be interested.
Bob is already deep in discussion with the staff at the PhD general information stand. You can see your school's stand where details of each of the Masters courses are available to view. [[Do you want to take a look]] or decide to leave Bob to it and [[go to the sports centre]] and thrash the stuffing out of a boxercise opponent?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/rule out postgrad study for now.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Exercise Class">
You can do a postgraduate course at any time in the future. You're eager to leave education and spread your wings in the world of work for the next few years.
You spend a [[well earned afternoon at the sports centre|go to the sports centre]] instead.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/do you want to take a look.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Reading A book together">
Thankfully, the staff aren't pushy, and help you to identify your areas of interest and where you excel. They indicate which courses match those aspirations, how they can still potentially build on a PhD if you ever fancy that route, and the degree level entry requirements that are needed. They even explain the scholarships and finance situation, which sounds pretty straightforward.
The course starts in September and you'd need to apply online no later than by the end of June next year. That leaves 7 months to make a decision. You thank them for their help then locate Bob so you can go and discuss your options over a [[coffee in the Create bar]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/go to the sports centre.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Boxing Gloves">
You get a peverse sense of satisfaction from punching something whilst simultaneously being hollered at to switch between hooks and uppercuts. Angel, your sparring partner, is wearing the hand pads that you're pathetically pulverising. She barely flinches each time you punch but when the tables are turned Angel nearly pushes you over with each jab. The blood in your arms is trying to retreat to the safety of your legs.
By the end of the hour your upper body is numb, the six-pack is still elusive and you've lost at least 3 pints in sweat. You feel invincible. These fitness lessons will really help you stay focused and ready to [[hammer out that dissertation|hammer out that dissertation]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/coffee in the Create bar.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Create Cafe">
Given the speed and pitch of Bob's voice, you can tell she is bursting with excitement at the prospect of becoming 'Dr Pomeline'. By the time she finishes outlining her big research plans her Americano has gone cold but you have finished yours. You tell her you're still not convinced about a postgrad course right now and that you're keen to get out there and start your career safe in the knowledge that you can come back to it again later.
In the meantime you'll both need to get these last assignments done and [[hammer out that dissertation]].<img src="images/passages/they would be in canterbury before the end of term.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Christmas Meal">
Zak immediately emails his acceptance on the condition that 1) there will be tins of lager on offer and 2) no dish will contain any amount of Nutella whatsoever.
Chimmy will still be working on his industry placement but he can catch a train down from London after work. Tiz will be on her way back from Paris sometime that week but is unsure of precise timings and dates so doesn't guarantee anything.
On the day, Saffa comes round early and helps with the food prep but refuses to have anythng to do with the turkey crown you've bought. She snatches the jar of Nutella out of your hand when she spots you trying to put a dollop into the gravy mixture.
The bell rings and Zak turns up with a 4-pack of lager tins (his contribution) and immediately makes himself of no use to anyone by getting in the way in the tiny kitchen/dining area. Eventually Chimmy arrives, having just walked from Canterbury West station just round the corner. He takes off his tie and jacket, seizes one of Zak's tinnies and sinks into your little armchair opposite the kitchen. He looks exhausted.
Finally, Saffa helps you to [[dish up your Christmassy feast]]. It looks just as good as your mum and dad's efforts. You take a photo of the spread on your phone.<img src="images/passages/dish up your christmassy feast.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Cathedral">
The crackers are pulled and childish paper crowns are on heads at various angles. Before the first morsel is eaten the doorbell rings again.
Tiz is standing in the glow of the orange street lights outside holding a bottle of Prosecco and radiating happiness from top to toe. Everyone cheers when she comes in and Chimmy insists on placing the fold out chair next to him. They all made it. It's just like old times.
After eating and drinking everything in sight you all take the short walk into town through the medieval Westgate Towers.
Do you [[all go to The Cuban]] to dance and party the rest of the evening away or [[pick a quieter pub]] so you can all have a drink and gossip into the small hours?
<img src="images/passages/all go to the Cuban.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury High Street">
The music and atmosphere is always great at The Cuban. You all dance yourselves stupid, soaking up each other's company. It is probably the best evening of the year and certainly the best way to end the term.
By the end of the weekend you've packed up what you need from your apartment and are [[ready to head back home for Christmas]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/pick a quieter pub.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="English Pub">
You find a booth in the pub, just a stones throw from the High Street. The background music is just low enough for you all to hear each other talk without raised voices. The drinks flow as easy as the conversation. It seems like you've been apart for years and yet you all talk as if it has just been for minutes. It is probably the best evening of the year and certainly the best way to end the term.
By the end of the weekend you've packed up what you need from your apartment and are [[ready to head back home for Christmas]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/ready to head back home for Christmas.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Law Building">
A seriousness hangs in the air when you get back to campus in the New Year. This is the last term before your final exams and every second counts if you're to get the best possible degree outcome. Bob has already made a headstart on her dissertation over the Christmas break. Leila and Brian too are not far behind. Mahat has decided against doing a dissertation and still doesn't know what he wants to do at the end of his course. Hannah has chosen modules that fit in with her intended career path.
After sending your dissertation proposal to Jean-Paul he suggests some new contacts to email within the Civil Service who may be helpful. You haven't really got into the meat of the dissertation yet so do you want to [[start making contact with these new people now]] or [[leave it until you know a bit more]] about what sort of direction you're going to take?<img src="images/passages/start making contact with these new people now.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Laptop In the Dark">
Good idea. Sometimes these new contacts can be unpredictable and it may take several weeks before they get back to you, by which time you'll have a fair idea of what you need.
You send off an email to one of the project managers Jean-Paul has suggested and hope to hear a response soon. In the interim [[would you like to go to see your Academic Adviser]], now that he is also your dissertation supervisor or [[would you rather wait]] until you have completed a bit more research?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it until you know a bit more.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Reading">
You spend your first week back at university wondering how on earth you're going to tackle your dissertation. You could decide to go it alone and [[get all the information you need from the Kent web pages]] (there's a lifetime's supply of advice about dissertation writing there) or do you [[book an appointment to see your Academic Adviser]]?<img src="images/passages/book an appointment to see your academic adviser_would you like to book an appointment_would you like to go and see your academic adviser.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge">
Prof. Mark welcomes you back to campus and asks about the Christmas break. Although you didn't ask in return, he offers a graphic description of various family games and how his mother, who had had too much sherry, fell into the tree and shouted out all sorts of profanities in front of the grandchildren. It sounds like a riot.
Prof. Mark is pleased that you've made contact with the Civil Service Project Manager and suggests that you think about the research question you want to answer specifically. He asks about the various chapters and case studies you will be needing. Embarrassingly, you hadn't thought that far ahead. He proposes that you do some extensive data gathering, then perform your statistical analysis. It's more detailed than you had imagined but they are just the ideas that you needed.
You thank Prof. Mark and leave for the library to [[start planning out your chapters and data collection]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/would you rather wait.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
You feel it would be better to go and see Prof. Mark once you have a clear idea of what your dissertation is going to contain that you can sit and discuss. You don't want to appear to be asking him for ideas now that you're in stage 3.
It's daunting knowing where to begin though. You start by doing a library search on your topic area. Just about the whole contents of the library get suggested back to you as potentially relevant. Hmm, tricky. You look at your draft outline. So far you've written out 'Contents Page' and 'Introduction'.
You check the Kent website and luckily @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ have a whole host of materials about organising and writing a dissertation. You need to start with a question that you want to answer. How do you know what [[question to ask]] in the first place?<img src="images/passages/start planning out your chapters and data collection.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Piles of Books">
There is so much material you need to read, you start making lists and recording them on @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ for your bibliography. You're just going to have to pace yourself. You start thinking of the data you need to collect. Prof. Mark is right, it's going to make a big difference to your findings but it's going to take a while. Then there will be the Civil Service case studies, you're not sure how long that will take. It all starts to feel a little overwhelming.
Do you decide to [[put all the tasks into a list]] then convert that list into some sort of flexible gantt chart so you can focus on one thing at a time without worrying about forgetting key tasks or are you happy to [[proceed with a phase of 'research and fact finding']] for now?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/proceed with a phase of research and fact finding_put all the tasks into a list.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Checklist">
The more you write down the less you need to remember. Even if things change over time, at least you can keep track of the main tasks. The list looks long. Some of them definitely need to be done before others. You download a free gantt chart app and put the list into some sort of order then guess how long each task might need to see if they can be done before the deadline. It looks like you have 2 weeks left over, this is your contingency. You sigh with relief.
Bing! [[An email from the Civil Service has arrived]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/proceed with a phase of research and fact finding_put all the tasks into a list.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Checklist">
Your mental task list is probably going to change several hundred times over the next few weeks so you decide it is pointless writing anything down until you're a bit clearer on what you're going to focus on. You spend the next 2 weeks doing nothing but reading (mostly from the comfort of your own bed now that you've found a whole stash of electronic sources, but occasionally on campus too).
Now you have some focus you start to write down the things that need to be done. The list looks huge and you don't think you'll manage to fit it into the time available. The panic starts to grow.
Bing! [[An email from the Civil Service has arrived|Civil Service2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/send an email to the civil service contact_civil service2_an email from the civil service has arrived.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kids Celebrating">
The email is from Senior Project Manager Alison Wonderland. She has read your dissertation proposal and says it fits beautifully with one of her current projects and suggests you go and meet her to discuss the project further.
It's still early days on the dissertation front. Do you reply immediately and [[take Alison up on her offer]] and arrange a date to visit or [[leave the email for a week]] or so until you've decided what you'd like to get out of the visit?<img src="images/passages/take Alison up on her offer_take Alison up on her offer2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury East Station">
Alison suggests you come up to London to meet her in a couple of weeks time, and gives you some key information to think about in the meantime. You book your train ticket nice and early to benefit from the cheaper prices. Now you're worried about what to wear. Your student wardrobe isn't exactly brimming with smart stuff.
You spend the next couple of weeks [[getting yourself organised for the London visit]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave the email for a week_leave the email for a week2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Train">
You frantically read as much material as possible, making notes about how this will affect your direction of study and data collection. After a week or so you email Alison and let her know that you'd like to visit and the specific areas you're interested in. She's rather pushed for time so can only offer one visit date, which sadly clashes with boxercise next week. You gratefully accept and then spend the remainder of the week getting [[as much reading and information gathering done|getting yourself organised for the London visit]] as possible ahead of the London visit.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/getting yourself organised for the London visit.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="High Speed Train">
Unsure of the dress code, you err on the side of smart. Your belt is too tight and the jacket is hot and itchy. It's the middle of the week and the capital is heaving with city workers and tourists. The travel instructions are really straightforward and the high speed train which departs from Canterbury, a mere 2 minute walk from your apartment, ensures you arrive at the London Civil Service office in less than an hour from your bed!
Alison Wonderland collects you from reception. She patiently listens and looks at the research and recordings you have made to date. Her facial expression doesn't give anything away. Is she [[as bored as a grape on a cheese board]] or do you think she is [[deep in thought about your proposal]], ready to give her feedback on where your work overlaps with her project?<img src="images/passages/send an email to the civil service contact_civil service2_an email from the civil service has arrived.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kids Celebrating">
That's all you need right now, another thing to add to the list.
The email is from Senior Project Manager Alison Wonderland. She has read your dissertation proposal and says it fits beautifully with one of her current projects and suggests you go and meet her to discuss the project further.
You look at the really long list you've just made, unsure if you can spare the time right now. Do you reply immediately and [[take Alison up on her offer|take Alison up on her offer2]] and arrange a date to visit or [[leave the email for a week|leave the email for a week2]] or so until you've decided what if anything a visit would actually add to your work?<img src="images/passages/take Alison up on her offer_take Alison up on her offer2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury East Station">
Alison suggests you come up to London to meet her in a couple of weeks time, and gives you some key information to think about in the meantime. As you've already done quite a bit of reading, you have most of this already mapped out. You book your train ticket nice and early to benefit from the cheaper prices. Now you're worried about what to wear. Your student wardrobe isn't exactly brimming with smart stuff.
You spend the next couple of weeks [[getting yourself organised for the London visit]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 2>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave the email for a week_leave the email for a week2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Train">
A week later the overwhelming panic has settled down and you're ready to contact Alison to let her know that you'd like to visit and the specific areas you're interested in. She's rather pushed for time so can only offer one visit date, which sadly clashes with boxercise next week. You gratefully accept and then spend the remainder of the week [[getting yourself organised for the London visit]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/question to ask.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Studying">
The question needs to be in your topic area of interest and it might be something you disagree with or find controversial. Plenty of material there! It doesn't take you long to use the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ resources to fine tune your question and work out what resources you need to read.
Now you have a plan of action of how to answer your question, [[would you now like to book an appointment]] to see your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ or [[do you feel able to continue on your own]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $SLASScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/book an appointment to see your academic adviser_would you like to book an appointment_would you like to go and see your academic adviser.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge">
Prof. Mark welcomes you back to campus and asks what you've been doing for the first few weeks of term. You show him your dissertation question and chapter outlines and how you propose to address the questions.
Prof.Mark is pleased that you've made contact with the Civil Service Project Manager. He also has some useful suggestions about the chapters you have proposed and suggests you do some extensive data gathering, then perform your statistical analysis. It's more detailed than you had imagined but they are just the ideas that you needed.
You thank Prof. Mark and leave for the library to [[start re-jigging your planned chapters and plan your data collection]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/start rejigging your planned chapters and plan your data_do you feel able to continue on your own.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="To do list">
There is so much material you still need to read, you start making lists and recording them on @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ for your bibliography. You're just going to have to pace yourself. You start thinking of the data you need to collect. Prof. Mark is right, it's going to make a big difference to your findings but it's going to take a while. Then there will be the Civil Service case studies, you're not sure how long that will take. It all starts to feel a little overwhelming.
Do you decide to [[put all the tasks into a list]] then convert that list into some sort of flexible gantt chart so you can focus on one thing at a time without worrying about forgetting key tasks or are you happy to [[proceed with a phase of 'research and fact finding']] for now?<img src="images/passages/start rejigging your planned chapters and plan your data_do you feel able to continue on your own.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="To do list">
There is so much material you still need to read, you start making lists and recording them on @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ for your bibliography. You're just going to have to pace yourself. You start thinking of the data you need to collect. Prof. Mark is right, it's going to make a big difference to your findings but it's going to take a while. Then there will be the Civil Service case studies, you're not sure how long that will take. It all starts to feel a little overwhelming.
Do you decide to [[put all the tasks into a list]] then convert that list into some sort of flexible gantt chart so you can focus on one thing at a time without worrying about forgetting key tasks or are you happy to [[proceed with a phase of 'research and fact finding']] for now?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>>Double-click this passage to edit it.<img src="images/passages/get all the information you need from the kent web pages_planning chapters and data collection2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students on A Computer">
There is so much material on line. You start making lists and recording them on @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ for your bibliography. You're just going to have to pace yourself. You start thinking of the data you need to collect. Then there will be the Civil Service case studies, you haven't even contacted them yet. It all starts to feel a little overwhelming.
Do you decide to [[put all the tasks into a list|list2]] then convert that list into some sort of flexible gantt chart so you can focus on one thing at a time without worrying about forgetting key tasks or are you happy to [[proceed with a phase of 'research and fact finding'|proceed2]] for now?<img src="images/passages/book an appointment to see your academic adviser_would you like to book an appointment_would you like to go and see your academic adviser.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge">
Prof. Mark welcomes you back to campus and asks about the Christmas break. Although you didn't ask in return, he offers a graphic description of various family games and how his mother, who had had too much sherry, fell into the tree and shouted out all sorts of profanities in front of the grandchildren. It sounds like a riot.
Prof.Mark is pleased that you've come to discuss your dissertation and suggests that you think about the research question you want to answer specifically. He asks about the various chapters and case studies you will be needing. Embarrassingly, you hadn't thought that far ahead. He proposes that you do some extensive data gathering, then perform your statistical analysis. He wants to know whether you're going to speak to any organisations in the field. You tell him you intend to speak to the Civil Service when you're a bit more organised. He reminds you that time is of the essence and to make use of the contacts as soon as possible. There's more to do than you had imagined but they are just the ideas that you needed.
You thank Prof. Mark and leave for the library to [[start planning out your chapters and data collection|planning chapters and data collection2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<<set $adviserScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/get all the information you need from the kent web pages_planning chapters and data collection2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students on A Computer">
There is so much material you need to read, you start making lists and recording them on @@.serviceLink;<<link "RefWorks">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ for your bibliography. You're just going to have to pace yourself. You start thinking of the data you need to collect. Prof. Mark is right, it's going to make a big difference to your findings but it's going to take a while. Then there will be the Civil Service case studies. You haven't even contacted them yet. It all starts to feel a little overwhelming.
Do you decide to [[put all the tasks into a list|list2]] then convert that list into some sort of flexible gantt chart so you can focus on one thing at a time without worrying about forgetting key tasks or are you happy to [[proceed with a phase of 'research and fact finding'|proceed2]] for now?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/list_proceed2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Writing a list">
The more you write down the less you need to remember. Even if things change over time, at least you can keep track of the main tasks. The list looks long. Some of them definitely need to be done before others. You download a free gantt chart app and put the list into some sort of order then guess how long each task might need to see if they can be done before the deadline. It looks already like you have no contingency time left over. Sigh.
You need to crack on and [[send an email to the Civil Service contact]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/list_proceed2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Writing a list">
Your mental task list is probably going to change several hundred times over the next few weeks so you decide it is pointless writing anything down until you're a bit clearer on what you're going to focus on. You spend the next 2 weeks doing nothing but reading (mostly from the comfort of your own bed now that you've found a whole stash of electronic sources, but occasionally on campus too).
Now you have some focus you start to write down the things that need to be done. The list looks huge and you don't think you'll manage to fit it into the time available. The panic starts to grow.
You need to crack on and [[send an email to the Civil Service contact]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/send an email to the civil service contact_civil service2_an email from the civil service has arrived.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kids Celebrating">
It takes a while before you receive a reply, by which time you've made a bit more progress on your research. The email is from Senior Project Manager Alison Wonderland. She has read your dissertation proposal and says it fits beautifully with one of her current projects and suggests you go and meet her to discuss the project further.
Do you reply immediately and [[take Alison up on her offer|take Alison up on her offer2]] and arrange a date to visit or [[leave the email for a week|leave the email for a week2]] or so until you've decided what you'd like to get out of the visit?<img src="images/passages/as bored as a grape on a cheese board.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Working Students">
You need to start thinking positive. She has invited you to her office for a purpose. If you think the worst then this shows in your presentation. Remain confident and [[deliver the rest of your proposal]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/deep in thought about your proposal.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Meeting">
Yes, stay positive. She has invited you to her office to hear about your study because she is interested. Remain confident and [[deliver the rest of your proposal]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/deliver the rest of your proposal.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="London Cafe">
Alison is enthused by your ideas and she spends the rest of the morning discussing them with you and highlighting how her project would make an excellent case study for you. She introduces you to her colleague Dr Helen Back who is a key researcher on her project. Helen looks after you for the remainder of the day. At lunch time, the staff canteen is a revelation. Helen says that your lunch is covered by hospitality. Knowing this do you [[go all out and start building a mini-empire of food on your tray]] to make the most of the freebie or [[play it cool]] and select some trendy sushi and a pot of healthy oaty muesli crumbs?<img src="images/passages/go all out and start building a mini empire of food on your tray.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Cheeky Kid">
You've paid for the train ticket so you might as well get your money's worth! Helen raises an eyebrow as you pile up the slices of chicken and new potatoes on your plate and makes no comment as you wedge packets of crisps, chocolate and biscuits all around the edge.
Helen chooses a mozarella panini which she finishes long before you've even caught sight of the pattern on your plate. You hadn't realised you were so hungry. You stab another potato, the fork misses and the gravy-coated potato scoots off into your lap. Helen can't help but laugh and you're now staring at a brown stain on the front of your trousers. Appetite now ruined, you mop up the gravy and stash the crisps, chocolate and biscuits [[into your bag for later]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/play it cool.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sushi">
You've only had sushi once or twice before and you're not a huge fan. This sushi tastes surprisingly good, if a little salty. Helen chooses a mozarella panini and you both chat over lunch about what it is like to work there.
You can't face the pot of oaty floor crumbs right now so you stash them [[in your bag for later|into your bag for later]].<img src="images/passages/into your bag for later.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Bedside Table">
By the time you leave the office at the end of the day you are full of new ideas and Alison and Helen are keen to remain in regular contact.
The train journey back home is quick and you barely have enough time to eat up the remains of your hoarded food. You hardly sleep that night, the dissertation ideas are moving around so noisily in your head.
Over the coming weeks you make great strides in your work, checking in regularly with Prof. Mark who periodically makes literature suggestions and comments on draft versions of chapters. But by the time you get to the data analysis bit your statistical skills are letting you down and it takes hours to trawl through YouTube tutorials to find out which technique you should be using.
Do you decide to book yourself an appointment at the [[SLAS 'maths and stats clinic']] specifically for stage 3 dissertation writers or [[muddle through with YouTube]]?
<img src="images/passages/SLAS maths and stats clinic.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Maths Class">
The one hour workshop run by maths whizz, Dr Al Jebbra makes your statistical task ahead look like a doddle. He also has some good ideas for how to structure and present those findings in your write up. You're confident this will be the icing on the cake.
You give your dissertation the final edit, making sure to check for plenty of critical analysis and absolutely no trace of plagiarism. It's all in the right format and ready to take over to the Design and Print centre.
They bind two copies of your dissertation for you while you wait. You leave the Design and Print centre holding two copies of your first book! You can't help but stroke them as you walk over to the school to submit one of the copies to Prof. Mark as well as submitting the e-copy via @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. [[Your dissertation is complete]]!
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/muddle through with youtube.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Printing Shop">
It takes a few late nights but you finally manage to do all the analysis you needed to do. It's exhausting.
You give your dissertation the final edit, making sure to check for plenty of critical analysis and absolutely no trace of plagiarism. It's all in the right format and ready to take over to the Design and Print centre.
They bind two copies of your dissertation for you while you wait. You leave the Design and Print centre holding two copies of your first book! You can't help but stroke them as you walk over to the school to submit one of the copies to Prof. Mark as well as submitting the e-copy via @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. [[Your dissertation is complete]]!<img src="images/passages/your dissertation is complete.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Funny Rabbit Comedy Club">
To celebrate handing in your dissertations, Bob messages you and asks if you wanted to go over to Funny Rabbit tonight. Her budding comedian friend Tobias will be performing again.
Do you [[join Bob at Funny Rabbit]] or decide to celebrate your achievement [[with Zak down at The Venue]]?<img src="images/passages/join Bob at Funny Rabbit.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="The Funny Rabbit Comedy Club">
The Gulbenkian is a frenzy. You're pretty sure it has nothing to do with Tobias and everything to do with the visiting comedian Ed Byrne making an appearance.
With diddly to lose, Tobias takes to the stage and gives it full throttle. Given his course in Forensic Science the chemical jokes and puns are thrown quick and fast. (Tobias: what does Helium do when you stamp on its foot? It doesn't react). The crowd are clearly in a good mood this evening. (Tobias: Did you hear oxygen went on date with potassium. It went OK). He quickly moves onto the perils of trying to cook student meals and how he borrowed his housemate's hair straighteners to heat up hot-dog sausages. You're strangely proud of him for that one. Bob, as usual, is laughing like a walrus who's just spotted his favourite boat capsizing.
You have to admit, it was an entertaining evening. By the time you both finish your drinks, Tobias runs frantically towards you, almost knocking by-standers over in the process. Apparently a comedy scout was in the audience and Tobias has just been invited to come and perform at the next Edinburgh Fringe Festival! That will be a pretty impressive end to his time at Kent, if he can just [[concentrate on getting through the final exams]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/with Zak down at the venue.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Club night at The Venue">
It's 80's night down at The Venue this evening and everyone is sporting luminous tutus, legwarmers and t-shirts. Human sized Pikachu has also put in an 80's inspired apearance too. Zak cannot be moved from his black uniform but does concede to a day-glo green headband to mark the occasion.
As usual, DJ Jezza is spinning some floor-filler 80's tunes which everyone is bouncing in unison to even though DJ Jezza is the only one in the room who was alive in the 80's. You've never seen Zak as animated as when they start playing 'It's Raining Men'. If only KTV were filming the event again.
This is probably the last big night out before you [[concentrate on getting through the final exams]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/concentrate on getting through the final exams.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Outside">
The smell of spring is fading and the first signs of summer are peeking through. You have attended all the revision sessions that have been provided by your school and you're currently working through all your notes, recorded in handy Cornell Notes style. Occasionally you dip into the lecture recordings saved on Kent Player to fill in any gaps of information.
There's just one big piece of research that you cannot for the life of you get right. Do you decide to sit in the comfort of your apartment and work it out until it is right and then [[reward yourself with a takeaway pizza]] or put your books down and [[go to your boxercise class at the sports centre]] instead?<img src="images/passages/reward yourself with a takeaway pizza.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Dominos Pizza Website">
It takes much longer than you anticipated, but by late evening you're pretty sure you have the work straight in your mind. You don't remember it being that complicated when it was explained in the seminars. You've been through hours of Kent Player recordings and pages of notes and research to get there. Your stomach tells you that it is way past dinner time. The online pizza menu stares back at you.
Do you [[play it safe with a pepperoni pizza]] or risk it all by trying a [[large stuffed crust Tandoori pizza]] instead?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/go to your boxercise class at the sports centre.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Boxercise Class">
Angel is there when you walk into the boxercise studio. She already has her gloves on and gives you a sideways glance. Her playful smile lets you know you're going to work hard today. Half way through the lesson you barely have the energy to stand up anymore and the sweat in your eyes stings. Angel looks tired but has enough left in the tank for round two. A combination of the trainer shouting encouragement and some high energy music gets you through to the end. Everything hurts but you leave the sports centre feeling 7 feet tall.
Luckily the cycle home to your apartment is all downhill so you barely need to exert yourself. You need a quick snack before getting back to your revision. The food cupboard reveals a choice of a packet of [[mediterranean couscous and a tin of tuna]] or some delicious [[Nutella and toast]] for a change?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/play it safe with a pepperoni pizza.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Pepperoni Pizzas">
After a short while the delivery moped arrives at your door and you eagerly relieve the driver of the precious flat brown cardboard box. There's not enough time to sit down, you flip the lid, tear off the first slice and stuff it hungrily into your mouth. Even though you pick this pizza every time, it tastes as good as the first time you had it. The pepperoni is making you thirsty but your hunger is stronger and you polish off another 5 slices before you take a break and get a drink. It was a good way to reward hard work at the end of a challenging day.
Your brain and stomach now fully charged, you are [[ready for your final exams]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/large stuffed crust Tandoori pizza.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tandoori Chicken Pizza">
After a short while the delivery moped arrives at your door and you eagerly relieve the driver of the precious flat brown cardboard box. There's not enough time to sit down, you flip the lid, tear off the first slice and stuff it hungrily into your mouth.
Within moments there is a small fire breaking out in your mouth. 'Tandoori Hot', it said. 'Tandoori Blistering' it should have said. But it tastes so good you carry on devouring the slices as tears roll down your cheeks and your vision becomes blurred. Eventually you admit defeat with two slices left (tomorrow's lunch?). It was a good way to reward hard work at the end of a challenging day but your stomach growls at you all night, blockading that deep sleep you were craving.
The next morning, your brain is feeling foggy and you're feeling tender. You just hope you are [[ready for your final exams]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/ready for your final exams.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Main Hall Exams">
Stood outside the sports hall, you're clutching a bottle of water and regularly take sips to drink down your nerves. There is a lot riding on these last exams. The next 3 weeks are going to be tough.
You're led into the largest sports hall and locate your row, right in the middle. You are surrounded on all sides by a sea of nervous students. It does nothing to calm your sense of trepidation. This is a nightmare. Do you [[put your hand up and ask to be moved]] to another smaller room where you're sure you could focus better or just [[take a moment to do some controlled breathing]]?<img src="images/passages/put your hand up and ask to be moved.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Exam Hall">
The exam hasn't even started and other students are staring at you for requesting assistance already. A slight man dressed in pale blue shirt and chinos comes to see you. When you explain your anxiety at the situation he looks on his clipboard to see if your name is on a list to sit the exam in a separate room by prior arrangement. It isn't. You're told that you are free to leave the room if you wish but that you will not be allowed back in and will be marked as absent. He also gently reminds you that, once the exam starts, you will surely be so focused on your work that you won't feel so intimidated by the room anymore. He smiles reassuringly at you then leaves you to make your decision.
Do you decide you can't bear the situation any longer and [[leave the hall to get some fresh air]] or [[stay and see how long you can last]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/take a moment to do some controlled breathing.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Meditation">
This is a great trick to calm your anxiety, whether for exams, presentations or speeches. Using the 4-7-8 rule you breathe in to the count of 4, hold your breath for 7 count and breathe out slowly for 8 counts. By the time you're on the third cycle of your breathing your heart rate has slowed and your shoulders drop. A few more breaths and you're as calm and focused as you're going to get. You look only at your desk, stationary and water bottle and avoid looking at the sea of other fidgety students around you.
The exam soon begins and the large clock at the front displays the start, end and actual time. [[You're ready to show them what you can do]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/mediterranean couscous and a tin of tuna.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A bowl of couscous">
Good choice, packed full of good energy and brain food, this will help sustain an evening of revision. It is ready in minutes and eaten in seconds. Fully recovered from boxercise, you look again at the tricky research with fresh eyes. It doesn't take you long to replicate the information discussed in the seminars and you feel that the break really helped you to see the data in a new light. You remind yourself to take regular breaks to prevent exam fatigue over the next 3 weeks.
Your notes are in order and you're confident that you've revised everything that's needed for [[your first exam tomorrow|ready for your final exams]] in the morning.
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/Nutella and toast.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Nutella on toast">
It may not contain all the major food groups but the Nutella tastes as good as the first time you tasted it. You paste a chunky layer of brown loveliness on each slice of toast and devour it messily. You imediately get that sugar hit and feel ready to get back down to work. You look again at the tricky research with fresh eyes. It doesn't take you long to replicate the information discussed in the seminars and you feel that the break really helped you to see the data in a new light. You remind yourself to take regular breaks to prevent exam fatigue over the next 3 weeks.
Your notes are in order and you're confident that you've revised everything that's needed for [[your first exam tomorrow|ready for your final exams]] in the morning.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave the hall to get some fresh air.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Campus Sports Centre">
The need to get out of the hall was overwhelming and you suck in the warm air as you look skywards. You realise you've just blown it as far as your first exam goes. You can't go back in, the exam is now underway. You have your next exam in exactly the same place tomorrow.
Do you [[convince yourself that you'll be fine tomorrow]] as you can psych yourself up in preparation or try to get an [[urgent appointment with Student Support in your school]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<<set $acaScore -= 5>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/stay and see how long you can last.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Ticklist">
Your heart is thumping and your pen is sliding in your clammy hand. Then you remember a great trick to calm your anxiety, whether for exams, presentations or speeches. Using the 4-7-8 rule you breathe in to the count of 4, hold your breath for 7 count and breathe out slowly for 8 counts. By the time you're on the third cycle of your breathing your heart rate has slowed and your shoulders drop. A few more breaths and you're as calm and focused as you're going to get. You look only at your desk, stationery and water bottle and avoid looking at the sea of other fidgety students around you.
The exam soon begins and the large clock at the front displays the start, end and actual time. [[You're ready to show them what you can do]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/convince yourself that youll be fine tomorrow.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Writing">
The following morning you're faced with exactly the same scenario. As you walk into the vast hall, the sight of hundreds of desks is somehow not so overwhelming. You take your seat in row J (J for 'Just get on with it'). Two rows away you see Leila squirming in her seat. She isn't enjoying the setting either.
Then you remember a great trick to calm your anxiety, whether for exams, presentations or speeches. Using the 4-7-8 rule you breathe in to the count of 4, hold your breath for 7 count and breathe out slowly for 8 counts. By the time you're on the third cycle of your breathing your heart rate has slowed and your shoulders drop. A few more breaths and you're as calm and focused as you're going to get. You look only at your desk, stationary and water bottle and avoid looking at the sea of other fidgety students around you. [[You're ready to get started now]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/urgent appointment with student support.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jo The Receptionist">
Jo, the receptionist, is chewing her way through a Maoam Joystixx sweet when you arrive at her desk. She offers the bowl of sweets and practically forces you to take one. You pick the safe red strawberry one as she starts tapping on her keyboard to check for available @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ appointments. There's a cancellation at 3pm.
[[Do you want to some back later for that]] or [[insist it is urgent and you need to see someone RIGHT NOW]]. <img src="images/passages/youre ready to show them what you can do.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sports Centre">
The questions were kind to you and you feel you have done yourself justice by the time you are asked to put pens down. It takes an eternity for the papers to be collected even though an army of invigilators are gliding swiftly up and down the rows.
Finally, you are standing outside in the warm sunshine and the grin breaks out across your face. That's the first one done. You spot Bob consoling Hannah over by the bike racks.
Do you [[go over to see if you can help]] or decide you need to [[stay positive and get back to your revision]]?<img src="images/passages/go over to see if you can help.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sad Person">
Hannah is trying to communicate with Bob but it is just coming out in stuttering sobs of incoherent noise. Bob gives you a concerned look and you reciprocate. You suggest going over to a quiet corner in Woody's and having a chat to put it all into perspective.
It transpires that Hannah had realised she had got completely the wrong end of the stick when writing one of her essays and now realises that she has messed up a good third of her paper. She knows the exam is worth 80% of her module so she has just blown a good proportion of her marks. You and Bob do your best to listen and reassure. Bob suggests Hannah makes an appointment to see her school @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ if she feels really anxious about it, or her @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ to allay achievement fears.
Once Hannah concedes that she can't change the past but she can still affect the future she agrees to stay focused on the next exams. She gives you both a hug of gratitude and you leave with a renewed sense of what [[impact you still have over your future|It will all soon be over]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/stay positive and get back to your revision.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library">
Bob gives you a look of concern as you pass by and you hold up your crossed fingers and mouth 'good luck'. You know that if you stopped and tried to help it could potentially cost you a whole afternoon of revision time and you're not about to waste any time at this late stage of the game. Bob will sort Hannah out, won't she?
You spent the rest of the afternoon swotting up in the Silent Study Zone of Templeman library, periodically visiting the cafe on the ground floor for a milky beverage reward and break from your notes. You're feeling confident about the remaining exams and how [[it will all soon be over|It will all soon be over]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/youre ready to get started now.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Exam Hall">
The questions were kind to you and you feel you have done yourself justice by the time you are asked to put pens down. It takes an eternity for the papers to be collected even though an army of invigilators are gliding swiftly up and down the rows.
Finally, you are standing outside in the warm sunshine and the grin breaks out across your face. You did it! Now you know you can get through the rest of the exams. [[It will all soon be over]].<img src="images/passages/do you want to come back later for that.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Support Meeting">
Jo books you in and you head over to Sibsons cafe to drown your sorrows in a large mug of peach tea. You can scarcely believe you walked out of that exam. That is a definite zero for that paper which constituted 80% of the module total! You can't even face looking at your notes for the exam tomorrow.
Your 3pm @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ appointment doesn't exactly go to plan. From the comfort of her brightly coloured office, support officer Elaine explains that it is OK to feel anxious at this time and that she can help by noting an exam concession for you. This means that the zero mark and your anxiety appointment will be considered at the exam board meetings. Unfortunately, she isn't able to book you into alternative exam rooms at this late stage but she asks you to come back if the situation arises again.
You trudge back home to [[research tips for overcoming anxiety]] in time for tomorrow's exam.<img src="images/passages/insist it is urgent.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jo the Receptionist">
Jo looks at you over the top of her glasses. It's clear she's seen a student outburst before and she is not moved. She tells you once more that the cancellation is at 3pm, do you want it or should she offer it to someone else? You embarrassingly accept the 3pm offer. She defiantly moves the sweet bowl away from you.
You amble over to Sibsons cafe to drown your sorrows in a large mug of peach tea. You can scarcely believe you walked out of that exam. That is a definite zero for that paper which constituted 80% of the module total!
Your 3pm @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ appointment doesn't exactly go to plan. From the comfort of her brightly coloured office, Elaine explains that it is OK to feel anxious at this time and that she can help by noting an exam concession for you. This means that the zero mark and your anxiety appointment will be considered at the exam board meetings. Unfortunately, she isn't able to book you into alternative exam rooms at this late stage but she asks you to come back if the situation arises again.
You go back home to [[research tips for overcoming anxiety]] in time for tomorrow's exam.
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore -= 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/research tips for overcoming anxiety.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Anxiety">
The next morning you file into the sports hall as before. You have barely slept. Your heart is thumping and your pen is sliding in your clammy hand. You deploy your researched breathing technique. Using the 4-7-8 rule you breathe in to the count of 4, hold your breath for 7 count and breathe out slowly for 8 counts. By the time you're on the third cycle your heart rate has slowed and your shoulders drop. A few more breaths and you're as calm and focused as you're going to get. You look only at your desk, stationary and water bottle and avoid looking at the sea of other fidgety students around you. The exam soon begins and the large clock at the front displays the start, end and actual time.
The questions are kind to you and you feel you have done yourself justice by the time you are asked to put pens down. It takes an eternity for the papers to be collected even though an army of invigilators glide swiftly up and down the rows.
Finally, you are standing outside in the warm sunshine and the grin breaks out across your face. You did it! Now you know you can get through the rest of the exams. [[It will all soon be over]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/it will all soon be over.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Clovers">
You cross each exam off your wall calendar each time you come home. The red crosses appear at alarming speed and you carefully plan a sensible amount of revision and reward into each evening.
The day of the last exam is here.
Bing! You have a new message from Saffa. She woke up yesterday covered top to toe in large spots (she hadn't been feeling great for a few days but had put it down to tiredness). She's just come out of the doctors and they have confirmed chicken pox, presumably caught from one of the children at the nursery where she works. She wanted to come and [[wish you luck for your last day]] but, given the circumstances, feels that would be unwise so she is sending positive vibes by email instead. You message back your thanks and joke it is a good thing she isn't sitting her finals this year as that would most certainly require exam concession. You promise to meet when she is feeling better and advise her not to scratch too much! <img src="images/passages/wish you luck for your last day.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Celebrating">
You are used to the exam patter by the time this final exam gets underway. You work quickly and efficiently through the paper and as you put your pen down at the end you close your eyes and smile to yourself. You've done it! That was the end of your degree!
The sense of urgency to get out of the building and shout with excitement is felt throughout the hall. You've never seen such a large space vacate so quickly. Outside people are cheering, hugging and throwing water from their bottles into the air. You lost count how many people you embraced or who they were. Eventually, you spot Hannah, Brian and Marta who are quick to hug you. Hannah is trembling with relief.
You have an immediate need to celebrate with them. Do you [[go to K-Bar for a full-on blow-out]] or go to [[Dolche Vita for a delicious celebratory meal]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/go to K-Bar for a full-on blow-out.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="K-Bar Courtyard">
Liquid celebrations, here we come!
You all order a drink, and sit outside in their party courtyard, clinking glasses and congratulating each other. You spot Gabriel through the window playing a round of pool with another student. He avoids your glance. You feel sorry for him having to last another year until he finishes due to repeating a year.
It's not long before Bob, Mahat, Zak and Zak's friend Ore turn up. Zak and Ore are wearing party hats and are already covered in silly string. The cocktails flow all afternoon as more and more students come to the bar to celebrate. The music is turned up loud and the courtyard glows by lantern light in the warm evening. Everyone is drunk with relief, accomplishment and booze.
You remember having 3 packets of cheese an onion crisps for your dinner, swilled down with a strange green cocktail Mahat ordered for you. It is a fantastic night and probably one you won't remember.
[[Bob sensibly orders you a taxi back home]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/Dolche Vita for a delicious celebratory meal.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Dolche Vita Restaurant">
In Dolche Vita you sit at the table with the best view of the duck pond. Even the ducks are in a good mood as they mingle on the water, occasionally tipping upsidedown to scoop some slimy pond nibbles.
You order yourself a fat bowl of Korean BBQ chicken wings with extra cheesy garlic bread. What it lacks in elegant eating it makes up for in taste. Marta smirks at your BBQ sauce 'smile'. Forcing the last of the garlic bread down you all decide to go to K-Bar to [[see if anyone else from your school is celebrating]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/bob sensibly orders you a taxi back home.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Can on a shelf">
Ooh, you can still taste cheese and onion crisps 10 hours later and it's not nice. You make it to the fridge to get yourself a can of cola. The sound when the ring pull releases the carbon dioxide is deafening and you take the can with you back to bed.
When your eyes are coordinated again you check through your emails. There's one from your mum wishing you luck for your last exam, one from Tiz pretty much saying the same, a whole load of reminders about library books and then you spot one from Alison Wonderland from the Civil Service. You speculate whether she has got around to reading your dissertation yet.
[[You click to open it]].<img src="images/passages/you click to open it.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Looking At Your Phone">
Alison has finished reading your dissertation and is impressed with your level of critical analysis and the conclusions you drew. She also thanks you for the work that you assisted with in Dr Helen Back's department. Alison is heading up a new branch of her project and she wants to know if you are interested in attending an interview for one of the posts!
Do you [[reply immediately and say yes, absolutely]] or play it cool and have some [[time to think over a suitable reply first]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/see if anyone else from your school is celebrating.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Origins Bar">
K-Bar is full of jubilant students, some covered in shaving foam and silly string, flower garlands or party hats. You wade to the bar and waste no time getting into the spirit. You receive a celebratory slap on the back several times and high-five several students from your course. One is drinking champagne straight from the bottle. The music gets progressively louder as the evening continues and you all spill out into the party courtyard lit by orange lanterns in the warm evening.
Eventually you share a taxi back to your apartment with Mahat who lives nearby. It has been a [[fantastic evening and one you probably won't remember]].<img src="images/passages/reply immediately and say yes absolutely.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Laptop Work">
You quickly pen a reply saying you're super interested and could she let you have some further details about the post. You do not want to miss this opportunity.
Within the hour Aison replies with the full job description. You're not sure you tick off 100% of the criteria, but that's OK, it doesn't mean you can't apply. She asks you to submit a CV and cover letter by the end of the week. You'll also need to supply at least one reference.
You're now very keen. You start writing up your CV and cover letter using online guidance. It's pretty good if you say so yourself. Do you want to [[get it checked over at the Careers and Employability Service]] or are you happy to [[stick with your own version]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/time to think over a suitable reply.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Laptop Work">
You mull it over for a few hours. Is it really the career you had envisaged? Will there be opportunity to grow there? Is the job going to be at the right level for you? What will the pay be like?
Eventually you reply to Alison and let her know you're interested but would like to see the full job description first before making any decisions. Within the hour Aison replies with the full job description. You're not sure you tick off 100% of the criteria, but that's OK, it doesn't mean you can't apply. She asks you to submit a CV and cover letter by the end of the week. You'll also need to supply at least one reference.
You're now very keen. You start writing up your CV and cover letter using online guidance. It's pretty good if you say so yourself. Do you want to [[get it checked over at the Careers and Employability Service]] or are you happy to [[stick with your own version]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/stick with your own version.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Productivity">
It is factually correct, concise and your experience and interests draw on references from the job description. You just need to supply the referee details now. Do you go to [[see your Academic Adviser and ask him to be a referee]] or [[put his name down anyway and hope that he doesn't mind]]?<img src="images/passages/get it checked over at CES.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Careers & Employability Service Desk">
You manage to get an appointment with the CV and cover letter wizard, Mike Ake at the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Careers and Employability Service">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ later that day. He ushers you to the table at one end of the open plan office. There is a plate of biscuits on the table but you resist taking one in case they've been festering there all term.
Mike goes over your CV and cover letter carefully after you explain your current opportunity. He is unrushed and methodical and gives some first class guidance for how to improve it to make the most of the relevant experience you have to date. He also has some suggestions about referees and suggests you speak to your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@.
Do you go to [[see your Academic Adviser and ask him to be a referee]] or [[put his name down anyway and hope that he doesn't mind]]?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/see your academic adviser and ask him to be a referee.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mark Partridge">
Professor Mark Partridge is surrounded by papers he is marking for those students that took exams in his subject area. He declares that he is only too happy to have an excuse to stop marking and chat with you about references. He is absolutely delighted that the Civil Service have contacted you directly and says this shows you demonstrated good ability when working with them earlier. He would be only too pleased to supply a reference for you and will ensure that he speaks specifically about the skills mentioned in the job description you have supplied.
You are confident that your application will be a strong one with Mark's focused input. You send off your CV, cover letter and referee details to Alison electronically [[later that evening]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/put his name down anyway and hope that he doesnt mind.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Writing A Reference">
@@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Advisers">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ ordinarily supply references on request for their students so you now see why it has been so important to stay in contact with them throughout your time at Kent so they get to know you well to write a more informed reference.
You send off your completed CV, cover letter and referee details to Alison by email [[later that evening]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/later that evening.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Blackwells Book Shop">
Whilst you are waiting for a reponse you start packing up your apartment then sell most of your books back to Blackwells Bookshop on campus so other students can benefit from cut-price second-hand texts. There's also the small matter of working out what to wear for the final summer ball which you are attending at the weekend.
After a couple of days you receive another email from Alison at the Civil Service. You've only gone and made it through the selection panel and been invited to interview! Yay! But wait. Your first serious interview and you know you can't use this as a test. You have to get yourself organised. You only have 5 days.
You google interview techniques. There's a degree's worth of advice out there. Do you [[work through some online guidance]], confident in the knowledge that they ASKED you to apply (so they must want you, right?) or play it safe and ask to [[have an interview practice session]] at the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Careers and Employability Service">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@?<img src="images/passages/work through some online guidance.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Employability CV Guidance">
There are so many YouTube clips on what is good and bad interview ettiquette. It's like revising for an exam all over again. In the end you find a document on the Kent @@.serviceLink;<<link "Careers and Employability Service">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ website outlining some really good interview advice. When they ask you a question, do not feel rushed into giving an answer straight away. Pause a moment. Consider why they are really asking it. What specific experience are they asking about? Answer how you would deal with that particular scenario then back that up with an example of how you put that into practice with a recent reference. Also, be prepared to be asked why you want the role at the start, and have at least 3 good questions to ask them at the end to shows you are serious about the role.
Your mum gives you advice about what to wear, be smart but comfortable as you won't be able to concentrate otherwise and don't wear those trousers you wore last time.
You're ready to [[give the interview your best shot|let him know how the interview goes]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/have an interview practice session.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Interview Practice">
A careers adviser called Corbin accepts your appointment request and books you in. In the two days until your appointment Corbin suggests you read up as much as you can about the organisation, the department that is interested in you and your specialist area ready for your dummy interview. You hadn't thought about doing that organisation research until now, but it makes sense.
At the appointment, Corbin explains that there is a really handy recipe worth remembering at interviews. When they ask you a question, do not feel rushed into giving an answer straight away. Pause a moment. Consider why they are really asking it. What specific experience are they asking about? Answer how you would deal with that particular scenario then back that up with an example of how you put that into practice with a recent reference. Also, be prepared to be asked why you want the role at the start, and have at least 3 good questions to ask them at the end to shows you are serious about the role.
You thank Corbin for his excellent guidance and promise to [[let him know how the interview goes]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/let him know how the interview goes.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="London St Pancras">
You catch the fast train from Canterbury West station and you're standing in St Pancras in less than an hour. You're tummy is queasy, like the first day of university all over again. You stop off at some toilets before you go to the Civil Service offices. Eventually you're shown into a smart air-conditioned office. Alison is there along with Dr Helen Back who you met earlier and another panel member who introduces himself as Kiril.
They give you a 45 minute grilling but you hold your own and manage to ask a few questions at the end. They spend a lot of time questioning you about your time with Helen and your dissertation work. You confidently explain your thought process and how you arrived at your conclusion using thorough research.
Eventually you leave the offices and find the nearest cafe so you can ring your mum and let her know how it went. Alison had said that they are seeing a few more people for the position but [[you should know by the end of tomorrow]].<img src="images/passages/you should know by the end of tomorrow.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Gummy Bears">
The next 24 hours go slowly and you fill your time shopping for summer ball outfits with Saffa (she is going to officially be your guest for the evening) and Zak. Zak goes for a black shirt, trouser and waistcoat combo. Saffa will wear an ornate gold sari.
They are both back at your apartment enjoying a mug of tea and slice of vegan lemon drizzle cake when you get an email alert on your phone. You can't ignore it, although you would have preferred to be on your own in case it is bad news.
You needn't have worried - you've just been offered the job! Even without knowing what your degree outcome is they are happy with the information gathered about you from your interview and from your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@! They will send full details through the post for you to check, sign and return and they want you to start as soon as possible. The [[summer ball is going to be a double]] celebration now!
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/agree to the starting day and forgo your graduation day.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Career Compas">
You send off the signed contract and accept the starting date. Your parents are not very happy when you first break the news to them. Your mum had bought a new outfit in anticiation and had already taken your dad's suit to the dry cleaners. But they are so proud of you for accepting the job and putting your career at the forefront of your decision.
[[So that just leaves degree results day....|determine degree]]
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<</if>>
<img src="images/passages/see if you can negoiate a different start date so you can attend your graduation.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tickbox">
You send back the signed contract then immediately email Alison about the start date. By the end of the day she replies to say that she is disappointed you won't be able to take advantage of this rare corporate event but understands that you want to experience graduation too. She is happy to delay your start date by another week.
[[So that just leaves degree results day....|determine degree]]
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/now you're on your own.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Accomodation">
You feel really sick and a bit wobbly. The stress of not knowing what to do suddenly hits you, yet at the same time you're excited to go exploring.
Do you want to see some [[viewpoints|views]] around your new home or would you prefer to look at the [[campus in more detail|maps]] to get orientated?<img src="images/passages/the seat is taken.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Caffe Nero Seating">
Looking at your map, you pretend to be busy.
"I'm Nayan," says the voice opposite. You sigh and realise that you're going to have to acknowledge. He is smartly dressed and is even sporting a University of Kent hoodie. Nayan gushes about his busy morning. He has apparently been everywhere, registered at everything then holds up a canvas 'University of Kent' bag and tells you it is full of 'swag' that he has been given as he ventured around the different buildings. Free stuff, eh? You ask him where he has been. Without permission, he snatches your map out of your hands and points to each of the places he has been and what he swagged from each place. Some are worthy, others not so much, but Nayan values each freebie as a trophy. He asks you what you've been up to. [[Do you lie]] and tell him that you've been all over campus too or admit you've spent the morning [[drinking coffee|confess]] and haven't even registered yet?
<<set $wellScore += 1>><img src="images/passages/the seat is taken.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Caffe Nero Seating">
He sits in the chair anyway and tells you he will go once your friend gets there.
"I'm <span id="nayan">Nayan</span>," says the voice opposite. You sigh and realise that you're going to have to acknowledge. He is smartly dressed and is even sporting a university of Kent hoodie. Nayan gushes about his busy morning. He has apparently been everywhere, registered at everything then holds up a canvas 'University of Kent' bag and tells you it is full of 'swag' that he has been given as he ventured around the different buildings. Free stuff, eh? You politely ask him where he has been. Without permission, he snatches your map out of your hands and points to each of the places he has been and what he swagged from each place. Some are worthy, others not so much, but Nayan values each freebie as a trophy. He asks you what you've been up to. [[Do you lie]] and tell him that you've been all over campus too or admit you've spent the morning [[drinking coffee|confess]] and haven't even registered yet?<img src="images/passages/register in the hall to the right.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Mobile Phone">
You register at one of the manned desks, it only takes 10 minutes.
YOU ARE OFFICIALLY A UNIVERSITY STUDENT!
You've worked hard to get here, it hasn't been easy, but you have earned this place. This is your big chance to get a prized degree. It's going to take blood, sweat and tears. Hopefully just the sweat bit actually, but you're going to do it. You laugh in the face of hard work.
The registration helper asks you for a passport style photo which will be used on your Kent One ID card. You scroll through all the selfies on your phone. It takes a while. Hundreds. Of. Pictures. Can't decide. Switch to camera mode. [[What look are you going for|face]]?
Once registered, you're shown how to access your online details and where to find your timetable. You have a notification which says you have an imminent Welcome Induction lecture in Woolf lecture theatre. The helper strongly recommends that you attend that before you go exploring the campus. Do you go to your [[ Welcome Induction event|induction]] or [[investigate campus|explore]] a bit more instead?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/You don't want to give Jan a reason to discuss it either.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Woolf Lecture Theatre">
Then Christine takes over. She talks much slower and softer and she does a lot of eye contact, like she's talking right at you. You bet she has a knack of getting anyone to spill the beans on how they're REALLY feeling. She explains all the support mechanisms in place within the school if you need them, you only have to ask.
Professor Lucas reminds everyone that there are school subject induction events later in the week which he strongly advises you to attend as you will get lots more information and more introductions to the staff who will be teaching you. In the meantime, he suggests that you take the rest of the day to familiarise yourself with the layout of the campus and [[explore]] key places.
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/dawdle back to the house.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Sunset">
Many other students are negotiating the lit pathways back to their Parkwood houses. Some of them look very much worse for wear. It's going to be interesting to see how many of them make it to campus tomorrow morning. Thank goodness you only had a couple.
Ah, back to your room at last.
Before you have had a chance to count sheep it is already [[morning]].<img src="images/passages/he then goes on to explain.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="EDA Lecture">
...the importance of regularly going to see your designated tutor (called an [[Academic Adviser]]). They do a sterling job of mentoring you through your course, answering queries, giving advice and highlighting areas for improvement.
Professor Lucas explains that the school has a dedicated [[Student Support]] department who can help with any personal concerns you have.
Finally he talks about time management. Apparently, unless you are the owner of a time travel machine, you need to get your head around pacing yourself, staying focused and keeping good notes. As if you'd leave anything to the last minute, right?
He then introduces the teaching staff for your subject. There's so many of them and you wonder if you'll manage to learn who is who. Each person has a speciality that they teach as well as doing cutting edge research in that area, so they really know their stuff.
As the lecture closes do you leave the theatre feeling [[energised and ready to go|energised]], [[slightly anxious]] about what is in store or totally [[overwhelmed|overwhelmed]] and so out of your comfort zone that you can feel your hand speed dialling 'home'?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/rest of the afternoon.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Walking down a path">
Do you go back onto campus with Tiz to attend the [[Welcome Fair]] on the plaza just outside the Kent Union to view and join any of the university societies?
Do you [[sit outside Saffa's room]], trying to persuade her to come out and talk to you or go to school @@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Support">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@?
Do you go to your room for some quiet [[me-time]] because you've had enough of Welcome Week and you're not interested in societies anyway?<img src="images/passages/you dawdle round the tables with Tiz_subject only.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Societies">
The Kent Cheer group is doing what it does best in the centre of the plaza. The UKC Hogwarts Society look like they're permanently living in World Book Day, and why not? A student with a microphone is doing a fine job demonstrating the stand up comedy society. There's literally something for every interest and background, with many societies offering free taster sessions too. You remember your Head of School telling you that joining subject related academic societies is free so you head to that table first and have a look. They give you a free lolly and tell you they'll email you when their first event is due to run.
You can't make your mind up what to join. Do you decide not to sign up to anything, just take a load of leaflets from various tables and as many lollies as you can manage and [[leave|wait]]?
Do you keep it risk-free and purely academic, sticking to the [[free subject related societies|subject only]], afterall you don't want to over commit yourself?
Or do you throw caution to the wind, [[join your subject societies|join]] then have a bit of a splurge and join the archery club even though you've never even tried it before, Adventure Gaming Society because who wouldn't and the Baking Society since you're rather fond of muffins and raw cake mixture?
<img src="images/passages/is that right_or have you got the wrong end of the stick.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Studying">
Not quite. Sure, you're going to need to attend as much as possible, but they're not going to give all the answers on a plate. You know you're going to have to do some extra independent work if you want to be in with a chance of bagging that high grade (and you really do).
So you have a full 10 weeks before you have to hand anything in. That's ages away and any feelings of time pressure start to drift away. Surely all that talk about 'time management' in the induction lecture was overkill?
You've made some basic jottings about the subject in your pristine notebook and are again reminded of the importance of attending each lecture and seminar to avoid missing any detail as it is double the work to try and catch up at a later date.
At the end, you leave the lecture theatre and head to the [[school common room]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/is that right_or have you got the wrong end of the stick.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Studying">
Exactly. You're right to be suspicious. Sure, you're going to need to attend as much as possible, but they're not going to give all the answers on a plate. You know you're going to have to do some extra independent work if you want to be in with a chance of bagging that high grade (and you really do).
So you have a full 10 weeks before you have to hand anything in. That's ages away and any feelings of time pressure start to drift away. Surely all that talk about 'time management' in the induction lecture was overkill?
You've made some basic jottings about the subject in your pristine notebook and are again reminded of the importance of attending each lecture and seminar to avoid missing any detail as it is double the work to try and catch up at a later date.
At the end, you leave the lecture theatre and head to the [[school common room]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/summer ball is going to be a double.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Summer Ball Elvis">
The ball is jaw-droppingly impressive. Over 3 thousand students are dressed to kill and filling the marquees, bars and fairground rides. Example, Jax Jones and Lady Leshurr are rolling out some massive tunes on the dance floor, Andy C is spinning old skool jungle in The Venue and a large screen is projecting mesmerising images of revellers. There was even a tent where an imitation Elvis could provide you with a fake wedding ceremony with a friend of your choice. By the end of the evening you have 'married' both Saffa and Brian and have Haribo rings and certificates to prove it.
You survive the night and even make it to Woody's Survivor's Party by 2am. It was THE BEST NIGHT EVER.
By the time you get home (still surprisingly alert) there is an envelope on your doormat with Civil Service printed on the back. You pour yourself another coffee before sitting down to open it. It contains your contract and joining instructions. Wow - you spot the starting salary! It seems extremely generous for a fresh graduate so you do not hesitate to sign the contract and place it in the return envelope. Then you peruse the joining instructions. They want you to start on the day they are holding a one-off big corporate event at a lavish London hotel. It's a unique chance to meet everyone and see how your role fits in. It is the perfect start to the next stage of your life. But here's the catch; it is on the day of your graduation.
Do you decide to [[agree to the starting day and forgo your graduation day]], afterall this is what you have worked your brains out to achieve during the last 3 years, or do you [[see if you can negotiate a different start date so you can attend your graduation]] and miss the opportunity to network in your new role?<img src="images/passages/take a short pit stop.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Rutherford Dining Hall">
Both you and Chimmy are eating noticeably slower but neither wants to be the first to admit defeat. Chimmy gets to within the last 14 chips and gives up, leaving the tail end of the batter and a splattering of orphan peas too. You can't beat that and leave at least a light picnic's worth of chips and batter.
Finally beaten, you sit back and admire your food baby. You realise it's going to be a struggle to get out of your chair and waddle over to your [[next lecture]].<img src="images/passages/food collection area.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Rutherford Dining Hall">
You hastily follow Chimmy. The brightly lit canteen is laden with hot plates and numerous steaming dishes neatly presented in a line. The serving staff are busy playing 'how high can we pile the food onto plates'. Hungry diners then balance their huge mound of food as they walk to the tables, with a few 'esca-peas' and the odd yorkshire pudding not making it to safety.
There's quite a choice on today's menu. Do you choose [[fish and chips]], the [[wok bar]] or [[vegetable lasagne]]?<img src="images/passages/a plan is born.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tobasco Hot Sauce">
Tiz goes to the fridge to get more ingredients for her pie and you take the opportunity to 'borrow' the Tabasco sauce and simultaneously acquire Chimmy's bottle of ketchup from the cupboard above. You return to the dining table as Tiz resumes chopping duty, this time on a stick of celery. Zak smirks as he watches you pour a sizeable dollup of Tabasco into Chimmy's ketchup bottle. The next time Tiz returns to the fridge, you take both bottles back to their rightful places before sitting down again.
At that point, Chimmy walks in. He's looking vexed. He actually got asked to leave one of his lectures today for heckling! His lecturer was discussing malarial drug developments in Africa and Chimmy quipped (a little too loudly) 'Kenya believe it' which resulted in eruptions of laughter. The lecturer was not amused and reminded Chimmy this was a lecture and not a pantomime. As a result, Chimmy is adamant he wants to change courses as he has seen an alternative within his school which sounds much more interesting. He's going off to his room to email his @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ about it.
Saffa [[comes home]] looking tired and pale.<img src="images/passages/a plan is born.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tobasco Hot Sauce">
Tiz goes to the fridge to get more ingredients for her pie and you take the opportunity to 'borrow' the Tabasco sauce and simultaneously acquire Chimmy's bottle of ketchup from the cupboard above. You return to the dining table as Tiz resumes chopping duty, this time on a stick of celery. Zak smirks as he watches you pour a sizeable dollup of Tabasco into Chimmy's ketchup bottle. The next time Tiz returns to the fridge, you take both bottles back to their rightful places before leaving the kitchen and going to your room.
You're still smiling about the Tabasco as you pin up your timetable in a prominent place and then spread out the freshly gathered reading materials. At this rate you'll need to be reading for about 8 hours each day just to get through everything. There has to be a knack to this, but you don't know what it is yet. In the meantime, you open your books and begin to jot down what you hope are the key points. Feeling stressed.
Eventually, Tiz announces that [[dinner is ready]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/dinner is ready.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tasty Shepherds Pie">
You all eventually sit down and eat the sloppy shepherds pie that Tiz dishes out. It starts off as a mound of food then slowly spreads like slow lava across the plate to form a chunky looking pancake. Despite the lack of plate appeal it tastes good. As usual, Chimmy gets his beloved ketchup from his cupboard and proceeds to cover his meal with the bright red sauce. You can tell that the build up of heat from the Tabasco is starting to kick in. After the fourth mouthful he takes a large gulp of water from his bottle. You can hardly hold your face together. He eventually comments to Tiz that the dish is quite fiery to which she replies that she only put a tiny bit of Tabasco in the sauce. Ahh, Chimmy thinks the heat is coming from the pie and is too polite to make a scene. Somehow, he manages to eat his whole plate of food despite sweat dribbling down his temples.
Who gets to clean up? You cleverly suggest a [[game of rock, paper, scissors]] to decide the fate of the washing-up.<img src="images/passages/game of rock paper scissors.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Rock Paper Scissors">
Tiz's paper wraps Zak's rock so Zak goes on to play Saffa, whose scissors eventually cut Zak's paper. You've selected rock which blunts Zak's scissors. It's not looking good for Zak. Finally Zak wins by wrapping Chimmy's rock with paper. Chimmy sports a losing scowl across his face.
Chimmy washes up the dishes, pans and utensils. Badly. Again. You grab a teaspoon and take a scoop out of your Nutella jar, lick the spoon then plop it into the washing up bowl with enough force to slosh some dirty water up and onto Chimmy. He strangles you with his eyes.
You head off to your room for some [[R&R time]].
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/set yourself a reminder_reminder2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
Good idea. You can always delete the appointment nearer the time if necessary.
Prof. Mark ends his talk by describing the inspirational speakers visiting this term and stresses the importance of hearing other people's opinions on subjects related to your degree. He reminds you to manage your time, stick to deadlines, join clubs or societies and to make the most of resources such as [[SLAS|SLAS Gabriel]], the library and [[Academic Peer Mentors|Mentors Gabriel]].
Gabriel leans over and whispers that's a load of rubbish. He doesn't need help from @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, his essays always got top grades at school. And he certainly doesn't need a scaremongering @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Peer Mentor">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ to fill his time with extra meetings. You are undecided. You have an hour before your next seminar. Do you [[go to the library to do your background reading]], go to your school reception to ask about being [[paired with an Academic Peer Mentor]], or go and sit at one of the picnic tables outside and [[get some vitamin D]]?
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<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it and see him when genuine need_genuine need 2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Lecture">
Fair enough. You don't want to get a reputation of being a time waster.
Prof. Mark ends his talk by describing the inspirational speakers visiting this term and stresses the importance of hearing other people's opinions on subjects related to your degree. He reminds you to manage your time, stick to deadlines, join clubs or societies and to make the most of resources such as [[SLAS|SLAS Gabriel2]], the library and [[Academic Peer Mentors|Mentors Gabriel2]].
Gabriel leans over and whispers that's a load of rubbish. He doesn't need help from @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@, his essays always got top grades at school. And he certainly doesnt need a scaremongering @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Peer Mentor">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ to fill his time with extra meetings. You are undecided. You have an hour before your next seminar. Do you [[go to the library to do your background reading]], go to your school reception to ask about being [[paired with an Academic Peer Mentor]], or go and sit at one of the picnic tables outside and [[get some vitamin D]]?<img src="images/passages/SLAS_SLAS Gabriel.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="SLAS Website">
@@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ stands for '@@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Learning Advisory Service">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@'. It's bascally a one-stop shop for picking up stacks of tips and tricks to boost your learning and achievement. And they're free. You can have 1:1 sessions with an advisor to go through something specifically like fine-tuning your study skills or attend a workshops such as essay writing, exam revision techniques and extra maths tuition. Did we mention, these services are free. It seems like a no-brainer so you promise yourself that you'll book yourself on a workshop (for zero cost) when the need arises.
[[Go back|set yourself a reminder on your phone straight away]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/Academic Peer Mentors_Mentors Gabriel.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Group of students studying">
This is like a buddying scheme where more experienced students are paired with newer students within their schools. You get direct access to someone who has walked the path you're currently walking. Contact them to discuss module details with them, find out about how they settled into university life and pick their brains about learning techniques and support resources available. It's totally voluntary. If you want to be paired with an APM you need to speak to your school about it and they will sort it all out for you.
You momentarily weigh up the benefits of having someone like that at the end of an email when you're pulling your hair out over a particular $assignmentType.
[[Go back|set yourself a reminder on your phone straight away]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/SLAS_SLAS Gabriel.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="SLAS Website">
@@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ stands for '@@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Learning Advisory Service">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@'. It's bascally a one-stop shop for picking up stacks of tips and tricks to boost your learning and achievement. And they're free. You can have 1:1 sessions with an advisor to go through something specifically like fine-tuning your study skills or attend a workshops such as essay writing, exam revision techniques and extra maths tuition. Did we mention, these services are free. It seems like a no-brainer so you promise yourself that you'll book yourself on a workshop (for zero cost) when the need arises.
[[Go back|leave it and go and see him when you have a genuine need]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/Academic Peer Mentors_Mentors Gabriel.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Group of students studying">
This is like a buddying scheme where more experienced students are paired with newer students within their schools. You get direct access to someone who has walked the path you're currently walking. Contact them to discuss module details with them, find out about how they settled into university life and pick their brains about learning techniques and support resources available. It's totally voluntary. If you want to be paired with an APM you need to speak to your school about it and they will sort it all out for you.
You momentarily weigh up the benefits of having someone like that at the end of an email when you're pulling your hair out over a particular $assignmentType.
[[Go back|leave it and go and see him when you have a genuine need]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/set yourself a reminder_reminder2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Professor Mark Partridge">
He ends by informing you of the inspirational speakers visiting this term and stresses the importance of hearing other people's opinions on subjects related to your degree. He reminds you to manage your time, stick to deadlines, join clubs or societies and to make the most of resources such as [[SLAS]], the library and [[Academic Peer Mentors]].
Bob leans over and whispers she is going to do everything Mark has suggested. You have an hour before your next seminar. Do you [[go to the library to do your background reading]], go to your school reception to ask about being [[paired with an Academic Peer Mentor]], or go and sit at one of the picnic tables outside and [[get some vitamin D]]?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/leave it and see him when genuine need_genuine need 2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Students Lecture">
Fair enough. You don't want to get a reputation of being a time waster.
Prof. Mark ends his talk by describing the inspirational speakers visiting this term and stresses the importance of hearing other people's opinions on subjects related to your degree. He reminds you to manage your time, stick to deadlines, join clubs or societies and to make the most of resources such as [[SLAS|SLAS Bob2]], the library and [[Academic Peer Mentors|Mentors Bob2]].
Bob leans over and whispers she is going to do everything Mark has suggested. You have an hour before your next seminar. Do you [[go to the library to do your background reading]], go to your school reception to ask about being [[paired with an Academic Peer Mentor]], or go and sit at one of the picnic tables outside and [[get some vitamin D]]?<img src="images/passages/slas Bob2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Learning Advisory Service">
@@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ stands for '@@.serviceLink;<<link "Student Learning Advisory Service">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@'. It's bascally a one-stop shop for picking up stacks of tips and tricks to boost your learning and achievement. And they're free. You can have 1:1 sessions with an advisor to go through something specifically like fine-tuning your study skills or attend a workshops such as essay writing, exam revision techniques and extra maths tuition. Did we mention, these services are free. It seems like a no-brainer so you promise yourself that you'll book yourself on a workshop (for zero cost) when the need arises.
[[Go back|reminder2]].<img src="images/passages/mentors Bob2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Academic Peer Mentor">
This is like a buddying scheme where more experienced students are paired with newer students within their schools. You get direct access to someone who has walked the path you're currently walking. Contact them to discuss module details with them, find out about how they settled into university life and pick their brains about learning techniques and support resources available. It's totally voluntary. If you want to be paired with an APM you need to speak to your school about it and they will sort it all out for you.
You momentarily weigh up the benefits of having someone like that at the end of an email when you're pulling your hair out over a particular $assignmentType.
[[Go back|genuine need2]].<img src="images/passages/it isn't exactly as you left it.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Hoover">
It's like it has been snowing, but in your room, everything has a fine white layer of 'snow' over it. You get the communal hoover from the cupboard and start removing the dust. The commotion draws Zak out of his bedroom who says this is the second time today there has been a lot of noise as earlier, Chimmy was using a hairdryer and was blowing hot air under your door. Zak didn't question him, nor ask about the bag of flour that was next to him.
By the time Chimmy returns home your room is back to normal so at least he didn't get the pleasure of witnessing your response. When he quizzes you, you claim there was nothing out of the ordinary. Chimmy looks puzzled but inside you plan to prank him back as soon as [[this assignment is out of the way]].
<img src="images/passages/this assignment is out of the way.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Deadline Day">
Just a few more tweaks and you're ready to submit the $assignmentType via the @@.serviceLink;<<link "Turnitin">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ service on @@.serviceLink;<<link "Moodle">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@. The deadline is another couple of days away. Do you leave it [[right to the last minute]] to submit your work just in case you uncover another point you want to add or do you [[submit it now]] and concentrate on getting the rest of your work done before their respective deadlines?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/next day depressed.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Dollop of Nutella">
After a restless night you wake up still feeling down about the negative comments. The face looking back at you in the mirror confirms that new eye bags have taken up residence and the slouched body language shouts 'failure' back at you.
A nice warm bowl of porridge with a brown swirl of Nutella on the top does little to cheer you and the frosty air on your walk to campus punishes your lungs. You are already anxious about what the new set of modules this term holds in store. You get to the Templeman library lecture theatre and [[walk in|to your lecture]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/too busy to help 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Baked Beans">
You make a run for your room before Chimmy has the chance to reply. By the time Chimmy hobbles over to his cupboard to discover the real reason for your vanishing act, you are safely behind your locked door but you can hear him voicing his opinion of you loudly in the kitchen!
After a minute or two, you take pity and return to the kitchen to find Chimmy with around 8 labelless tins, shaking each one to his ear to help identify what the contents might be. He has narrowed his selection down to 3 tins, one of which he reckons contains beans. He gives you a sideways glance that tells you you're toast!
You shake the three tins and declare one of them the bean bounty, given the weight and sploshiness. Chimmy hands you the tin opener. It's peach slices! You both laugh. He hands you a second tin. It's beans! He stows the remaining mystery tins back in his cupboard for another time. He assures you he will prank you back some time.
Chimmy sits down as you make his beans on toast for him and you fill him in on your latest presentation strategy. He's keen to hear your tactics as he has a similar assignment later in the term. You tell him about the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ resources and use of group study hubs. Eventually you wander back to your room to [[finish off the presentation|presentation3]].<img src="images/passages/chimmy's reaction 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tin Cans">
Sure! You nervously open his cupboard and step to one side to ask him which one is the tin of beans! Chimmy gives you a sideways glance which tells you you're toast!
He hobbles over and starts shaking each of the 8 labelless tins in turn to help identify what the contents might be. He has narrowed his selection down to 3 tins, one of which he reckons contains beans.
You shake the three tins and declare one of them the bean bounty, given the weight and sploshiness. Chimmy hands you the tin opener. It's peach slices! You both laugh. He hands you a second tin. It's beans! He stows the remaining mystery tins back in his cupboard for another time. He assures you he will prank you back some time.
Chimmy sits down as you make his beans on toast for him and you fill him in on your latest presentation strategy. He's keen to hear your tactics as he has a similar assignment later in the term. You tell him about the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ resources and use of group study hubs. Eventually you wander back to your room to [[finish off the presentation|presentation3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/too busy to help 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Baked Beans">
You make a run for your room before Chimmy has the chance to reply. By the time Chimmy hobbles over to his cupboard to discover the real reason for your vanishing act you are safely behind your locked door but you can hear him voicing his opinion of you loudly in the kitchen!
After a minute or two, you take pity and return to the kitchen to find Chimmy with around 8 labelless tins, shaking each one to his ear to help identify what the contents might be. He has narrowed his selection down to 3 tins, one of which he reckons contains beans. He gives you a sideways glance that tells you you're toast!
You shake the three tins and declare one of them the bean bounty, given the weight and sploshiness. Chimmy hands you the tin opener. It's peach slices! You both laugh. He hands you a second tin. It's beans! He stows the remaining mystery tins back in his cupboard for another time. He assures you he will prank you back some time.
Chimmy sits down as you make his beans on toast for him and you pour out your frustration at the Gabriel situation. Chimmy is surprisingly irritated and advises you to use this as a learning experience, take it for the team just the once then move on.
Now you've put things into perspective, you get back to your room to [[finish off the presentation]].<img src="images/passages/chimmy's reaction 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tin Cans">
Sure! You nervously open his cupboard and step to one side to ask him which one is the tin of beans! Chimmy gives you a sideways glance which tells you you're toast!
He hobbles over and starts shaking each of the 8 labelless tins in turn to help identify what the contents might be. He has narrowed his selection down to 3 tins, one of which he reckons contains beans.
You shake the three tins and declare one of them the bean bounty, given the weight and sploshiness. Chimmy hands you the tin opener. It's peach slices! You both laugh. He hands you a second tin. It's beans! He stows the remaining mystery tins back in his cupboard for another time. He assures you he will prank you back some time.
Chimmy sits down as you make his beans on toast for him and you fill him in on your latest presentation strategy. He's keen to hear your tactics as he has a similar assignment later in the term. You tell him about the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ resources and use of group study hubs. Eventually you wander back to your room to [[finish off the presentation]].<img src="images/passages/too busy to help 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Baked Beans">
You make a run for your room before Chimmy has the chance to reply. By the time Chimmy hobbles over to his cupboard to discover the real reason for your vanishing act you are safely behind your locked door but you can hear him voicing his opinion of you loudly in the kitchen!
After a minute or two, you take pity and return to the kitchen to find Chimmy with around 8 labelless tins, shaking each one to his ear to help identify what the contents might be. He has narrowed his selection down to 3 tins, one of which he reckons contains beans. He gives you a sideways glance that tells you you're toast!
You shake the three tins and declare one of them the bean bounty, given the weight and sploshiness. Chimmy hands you the tin opener. It's peach slices! You both laugh. He hands you a second tin. It's beans! He stows the remaining mystery tins back in his cupboard for another time. He assures you he will prank you back some time.
Chimmy sits down as you make his beans on toast for him and you pour out your frustration at the Gabriel situation. Chimmy is surprisingly irritated and advises you to use this as a learning experience, take it for the team just the once then move on.
Now you've put things into perspective, you get back to your room to [[finish off the presentation2]].<img src="images/passages/chimmy's reaction 1_2_3.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Tin Cans">
Sure! You nervously open his cupboard and step to one side to ask him which one is the tin of beans! Chimmy gives you a sideways glance which tells you you're toast!
He hobbles over and starts shaking each of the 8 labelless tins in turn to help identify what the contents might be. He has narrowed his selection down to 3 tins, one of which he reckons contains beans.
You shake the three tins and declare one of them the bean bounty, given the weight and sploshiness. Chimmy hands you the tin opener. It's peach slices! You both laugh. He hands you a second tin. It's beans! He stows the remaining mystery tins back in his cupboard for another time. He assures you he will prank you back some time.
Chimmy sits down as you make his beans on toast for him and you fill him in on your latest presentation strategy. He's keen to hear your tactics as he has a similar assignment later in the term. You tell him about the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ resources and use of group study hubs. Eventually you wander back to your room to [[finish off the presentation|finish off the presentation2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/go back to the flat.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Lego Man">
You walk into the kitchen and can immediately sense Zak is in a foul mood. It could be the way he is slamming the cupboard doors, or opening the fridge and shouting expletives at the yoghurts, or it could just be a sixth sense that you have. Zak has received a written warning from his school about his attendance (or lack of it). Consequently he has contravened the Academic Diligence Procedure that all students are expected to uphold.
Zak complains that it is his right as a student to miss lectures if he wants (and hand work in late for that matter) and it's unfair he has been called to a meeting with his Senior Tutor. He's also mad that the same letter has been sent to his home address and his Mum has phoned to quiz him about his slack attitude!
You tentatively point out that the school may be worried that he is struggling with the work and probably just want to help. That isn't received well and he gives you the evil 'Paddington Bear stare'. You grab a box of jaffa cakes from your cupboard and [[beat a hasty retreat]].<img src="images/passages/walk of shame.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kennedy Common Room">
You decide to [[return to the undergraduate common room|school common room again]] and download whatever resources you can find and leave the book collection for another day when you have worked out where you have left your KentOne card (hopefully back in your room).<img src="images/passages/ask the help desk staff.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Book Shelves">
It's no problem, it happens every now and then. They gladly issue you with a temporary card which gives you access all day. Phew, back in the game.
Your 4 books could be literally anywhere. You go back to your reading list and click the book link. It gives the precise shelf location so you consult the large library map in the foyer then head off to the relevant block location. You locate the correct shelf with ease and tiptoe along the aisle, just to make sure you're in keeping with the silence policy, to find the book. In fact, there are several copies of the same book available, so there was no rush afterall.
One of the copies looks much older and more used than the others. You wonder why and slide it out from between the other books. Inside, there is a pencil inscription in the front "Donated to the University of Kent by Richard Brown", whoever he was. You flick through the book quickly. A few more pencil notes have been made in the margin (naughty) and near the centre a leaflet for a pizza delivery service has been left as some sort of bookmark. The molten cheesey photos of doughy loveliness make your mouth water. You decide to take that copy of the book. That's one down, three more books to find.
The others are located nearby, which makes sense as they are related subjects. You take your 4 books down to the foyer. Do you go to one of the several [[machines to automatically check your books out]] or go to [[the service desk]] and get them issued manually?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/forgo the lunch invite.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Library Foyer">
There will be plenty of opportunities for lunch dates after the exams. At the moment your top priority is getting as much revision done to ensure you are as prepared as possible.
The library beckons so you go and see if a study pod is free for [[an afternoon of revision]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/agree to meet them later at origins.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Origins Bar">
The Cornell notes system is making the revision process so much easier. Armed with key aspects to revise, you can carefully read those areas of your notes and access any of the library resources to bump up your knowledge where your notes lacked detail. By lunch time have almost completed the notes for your smallest module.
You walk across the green towards the Origins Bar and Grill in Darwin college. Bob and Brian are already there, no sign of Hannah. You discuss your thoughts about the morning revision session then decide to go ahead and order food in Hannah's absence as your stomach can wait no longer. You decide to go all out for the hanging chicken skewers, you deserve it. Bob picks the Bugs Bunny burger and 'voodoo fries' whilst Brian chooses the bean chilli nachos. The food is like something out of a photoshoot and looks good enough to eat. Thankfully.
In between mouthfuls of grilled food you discuss revision tactics and try to predict exam questions. Just as you're on your last skewer Hannah breathlessly rushes over. She had been listening to an ASMR video of a cat purring on YouTube whilst revising in her room and had found it so relaxing she drifted off to sleep. Hannah stays for a full fat, caffeinated drink as you all finish eating. You agree to meet again at the end of the week for a picnic lunch on the green over-looking Canterbury.
You each go back to your [[respective revision bolt-holes|bolt-holes1]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/lunch invite2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Foyer">
There will be plenty of opportunities for lunch dates after the exams. At the moment your top priority is getting as much revision done to ensure you are as prepapred as possible.
The library beckons so you go and see if a study pod is free for [[an afternoon of revision|revision3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/agree to meet them later at origins.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Origins Bar">
The Cornell notes system is making the revision process so much easier. Armed with key aspects to revise, you can carefully read those areas of your notes and access any of the library resources to bump up your knowledge where your notes lacked detail. By lunch time have almost completed the notes for your smallest module.
You walk across the green towards the Origins Bar and Grill in Darwin college. Bob and Brian are already there, no sign of Hannah. You discuss your thoughts about the morning revision session then decide to go ahead and order food in Hannah's absence as your stomach can wait no longer. You decide to go all out for the hanging chicken skewers, you deserve it. Bob picks the Bugs Bunny burger and 'voodoo fries' whilst Brian chooses the bean chilli nachos. The food is like something out of a photoshoot and looks good enough to eat. Thankfully.
In between mouthfuls of grilled food you discuss revision tactics and try to predict exam questions. Just as you're on your last skewer Hannah breathlessly rushes over. She had been listening to an ASMR video of a cat purring on YouTube whilst revising in her room and had found it so relaxing she drifted off to sleep. Hannah stays for a full fat, caffeinated drink as you all finish eating. You agree to meet again at the end of the week for a picnic lunch on the green over-looking Canterbury.
You each go back to your [[respective revision bolt-holes|bolt-holes3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/lunch invite2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Templeman Library Foyer">
There will be plenty of opportunities for lunch dates after the exams. At the moment your top priority is getting as much revision done to ensure you are as prepapred as possible.
The library beckons so you go and see if a study pod is free for [[an afternoon of revision|revision2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/agree to meet them later at origins.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Origins Bar">
The Cornell notes system is making the revision process so much easier. Armed with key aspects to revise, you can carefully read those areas of your notes and access any of the library resources to bump up your knowledge where your notes lacked detail. By lunch time have almost completed the notes for your smallest module.
You walk across the green towards the Origins Bar and Grill in Darwin college. Bob and Brian are already there, no sign of Hannah. You discuss your thoughts about the morning revision session then decide to go ahead and order food in Hannah's absence as your stomach can wait no longer. You decide to go all out for the hanging chicken skewers, you deserve it. Bob picks the Bugs Bunny burger and 'voodoo fries' whilst Brian chooses the bean chilli nachos. The food is like something out of a photoshoot and looks good enough to eat. Thankfully.
In between mouthfuls of grilled food you discuss revision tactics and try to predict exam questions. Just as you're on your last skewer Hannah breathlessly rushes over. She had been listening to an ASMR video of a cat purring on YouTube whilst revising in her room and had found it so relaxing she drifted off to sleep. Hannah stays for a full fat, caffeinated drink as you all finish eating. You agree to meet again at the end of the week for a picnic lunch on the green over-looking Canterbury.
You each go back to your [[respective revision bolt-holes|bolt-holes2]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $wellScore += 1>>
<<set $libraryScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/laugh politely and say it wont do any good.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Cornwallis View">
You're not about to share your hard work with him now. If he didn't bring his own notes (had he even made any?) then that is his loss.
You don't have the chance to re-read any of your notes yourself before you are all called into the exam hall to your [[designated desks]].<img src="images/passages/agree to another round.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Pub Bar">
Zak gets just one more drink each.
The conversation is flowing really well now, you're finding an excuse to talk to just about everyone.
You get another couple of drinks
Zak buys anover wun for luk....
You're not sure how, but you both [[dawdle back to the house|dawdle back to house2]].
<img src="images/passages/dawdle back to the house2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Campus Bins">
Many other students are negotiating the lit pathways back to their Parkwood houses. You don't know why, but the litter bin situated at the side of the path, with it's two gaping mouths begging for recyclable and general waste is suddenly utterly hilarious. You're now on one knee and shouting into the bin asking for someone to open the door and let you in. Zak is huddled the other side of the bin as the would-be bin resident telling you that the door won't unlock and you need to climb through the window.
Window?
Must mean opening at top.
Can't get head in.
Can get foot in though.
Foot stuck.
Foot out but no shoe on the end.
Shoe in bin (recyclable side) and yet shoe not recyclable.
Must attempt to liberate shoe.
Arm now foraging in bin. The shame.
You can't reach the non-recyclable shoe which has dropped heavily to the bottom of the bin, but have retrieved a large, barely crumpled A4 padded brown envelope.
A4 brown envelope is now on your foot. New shoe looks good enough to walk back to your flat in.
Ah, back to your room at last.
Before you have had a chance to count sheep it is already [[morning|morning2]]./* Initialise Sugarcube variables */
<<set $acaScore = 0>>
<<set $wellScore = 0>>
<<set $nutellaScore = 0>>
<<set $libraryScore = 0>>
<<set $adviserScore = 0>>
<<set $SLASScore = 0>>
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<<set $betaVersion = "1.0.3">>
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<</script>>/* This passage is the default Sugarcube passage for the Banner of the game, it appears in the sidebar (UIBar). It was simpler just to use this to display the logo */
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// Save the user score
Namespace.saveScore();
// Set the # of the URL to the passage ID for reference (has no actual effect to the passage the user is on, ie. they can't skip passages by typing in the passage ID to the URL)
location.hash = State.getVar('$passageId');
// Set up the sneaky dev tools page in the credits
if(Story.get(passage()).title == "Credits")
{
document.getElementById("devtools").onclick = function()
{
State.display("developer options");
}
}
// Nayan Easter Egg
if(Story.get(passage()).title == "the seat is taken")
{
document.getElementById("nayan").onclick = function()
{
State.display("nayan");
}
}
// Karen Easter Egg
if(Story.get(passage()).title == "Graduate!" || Story.get(passage()).title == "Start your job!")
{
var originalContents = document.getElementById("karen").innerHTML;
document.getElementById("karen").onmouseover = function()
{
document.getElementById("karen").innerHTML = "click here";
}
document.getElementById("karen").onmouseout = function()
{
document.getElementById("karen").innerHTML = originalContents;
}
document.getElementById("karen").onclick = function()
{
State.display("jhdgjkneak53bkfbsdkjbfkahkcnaskjbc");
}
}
// Display the Easter Egg passage if the player has come from the Easter Egg URL
if(Namespace.getEasterEggStatus() == true)
{
State.display("jhdgjkneak53bkfbsdkjbfkahkcnaskjbc");
}
// If the player is in the Character Descriptions passage, add onclick functions to each character to forward the player to the relevant passage
if(Story.get(passage()).title == "Character Descriptions")
{
document.getElementById("Tiz").onclick = function()
{
State.display("TizDesc");
}
document.getElementById("Chimmy").onclick = function()
{
State.display("ChimmyDesc");
}
document.getElementById("Zak").onclick = function()
{
State.display("ZakDesc");
}
document.getElementById("Saffa").onclick = function()
{
State.display("SaffaDesc");
}
document.getElementById("Bob").onclick = function()
{
State.display("BobDesc");
}
document.getElementById("Gabriel").onclick = function()
{
State.display("GabrielDesc");
}
document.getElementById("Mark").onclick = function()
{
State.display("PartridgeDesc");
}
document.getElementById("Dave").onclick = function()
{
State.display("DaveDesc");
}
document.getElementById("Jo").onclick = function()
{
State.display("JoDesc");
}
}
document.body.scrollTop = 0; // For Safari
document.documentElement.scrollTop = 0;
// Send GA the passage details (for tracking purposes)
if(performance.navigation.type != performance.navigation.TYPE_RELOAD)
{
gtag('config', window.GATrackingID, {
'page_title' : Story.get(passage()).title,
'page_path': '/#' + Story.get(passage()).domId
});
}
<</script>>
<img src="images/passages/report.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Graduation Ceremony">
A huge congratulations to you for finishing your degree at the University of Kent! You have shown you have what it takes to navigate around a new university, learn who to work with and how to get work done on time. You have also gained an insight to the resources that are on offer at Kent to help maximise your degree outcome.
Your total Academic Score was $acaScore out of a possible 200 points.
Your Academic Score was impacted by how frequently you visited your Academic Adviser and how often you utilised resources such as the library. Did you know, you visited your @@.serviceLink;<<link "Academic Adviser">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ $adviserScore times, you called into the library $libraryScore times and you made use of @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ $SLASScore times during this game!
Your total Wellbeing Score was $wellScore out of a possible 100 points.
Your Wellbeing Score was impacted by how many times you made the most of social interactions and how well you looked after yourself. Did you know, you ate Nutella a total of $nutellaScore times. Everyone knows how important Nutella is to wellbeing!
There are both short and long paths through this game. In total you made <<print turns()>> decisions, and your chosen path was one of millions of different combinations!
Thank you for playing the One Hour Degree game, we hope you have found it fun and informative. We would value your feedback by taking this <a href="https://kent.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/1-hour-degree-feedback-survey-live" target="_blank">Feedback Survey</a>.
\
<<if $job == true>>
It's a shame you'll be missing the graduation ceremony, but congratulations on finding a job! Don't be late now!
\
[[Start your job!]]
<<else>>
And now it is time to sit back and enjoy your very special graduation ceremony at the Canterbury Cathedral. Enjoy the moment and, who knows, maybe we will welcome you to your real graduation in the Cathedral one day.
[[Graduate!]]
<</if>>
<<set $allowMultiple += 1>>
<<script>>
GA.sendEvent("Quest Completion", "Player Progression", "Quest 5");
GA.sendEvent("Final Academic Score", "Game Completion", State.getVar('$acaScore'));
GA.sendEvent("Final Wellbeing Score", "Game Completion", State.getVar('$wellScore'));
GA.sendEvent("Final Grade", "Game Completion", State.getVar('$grade'));
GA.sendEvent("Final Score", "Game Completion", 'Aca:' + State.getVar('$acaScore') + ' Well:' + State.getVar('$wellScore') + ' ' + 'Grade:' + State.getVar('$grade'));
<</script>><img src="images/passages/1st.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Graduation Ceremony">
CONGRATULATIONS! You got a 1st class degree!
This is the highest degree classification possible and you have evidently made some excellent choices throughout the game.
Click on your [[game report|Report]] to see how you achieved this dizzy height of awesomeness.
<<script>>
GA.sendEvent("Received Grade", "Player Progression", "1st");
<</script>><img src="images/passages/2_1.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Graduation Ceremony">
CONGRATULATIONS! You got a 2:1 class degree (also referred to as an upper second)!
This is the second highest degree classification possible and you have evidently made some good choices throughout the game.
Click on your [[game report|Report]] to see how you achieved this acolade and what areas you may have missed out on that prevented you from achieving the top award.
<<script>>
GA.sendEvent("Received Grade", "Player Progression", "2:1");
<</script>><img src="images/passages/2_2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Graduation Ceremony">
CONGRATULATIONS! You got a 2:2 class degree (also referred to as an lower second)!
This is the third highest degree classification and you have evidently made some positive choices throughout the game.
Click on your [[game report|Report]] to see how you achieved this classification and what areas you may have missed out on that prevented you from achieving a higher award.
<<script>>
GA.sendEvent("Received Grade", "Player Progression", "2:2");
<</script>><img src="images/passages/3rd.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Kent Graduation Ceremony">
CONGRATULATIONS! You got a 3rd class degree!
Whilst this is the lowest degree classification it is much more preferable than a fail but falls some way short of the top award.
Click on your [[game report|Report]] to see how you achieved this degree classification and the areas of opportunity you may have missed.
<<script>>
GA.sendEvent("Received Grade", "Player Progression", "3rd");
<</script>><<script>>
Engine.restart();
<</script>>/* DEVELOPER OPTIONS PAGE, NOT TO BE SEEN BY THE PLAYER */
This page is for development purposes, should not be in final release.
<<button "Give Academic Point">><<set $acaScore += 1>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Remove Academic Point">><<set $acaScore -= 1>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<textbox "$setAca" "">><<button "Set Aca">><<set $acaScore = $setAca>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Give Wellbeing Point">><<set $wellScore += 1>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Remove Wellbeing Point">><<set $wellScore -= 1>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<textbox "$setWell" "">><<button "Set Well">><<set $wellScore = $setWell>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<textbox "$setNut" "">><<button "Set Nutella">><<set $nutellaScore = $setNut>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<textbox "$setLib" "">><<button "Set Library">><<set $libraryScore = $setLib>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<textbox "$setAdv" "">><<button "Set Adviser">><<set $adviserScore = $setAdv>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<textbox "$setSLAS" "">><<button "Set SLAS">><<set $SLASScore = $setSLAS>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Give Quest 1 Badge">><<set $quest1Badge = true>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Remove Quest 1 Badge">><<set $quest1Badge = false>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Give Quest 2 Badge">><<set $quest2Badge = true>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Remove Quest 2 Badge">><<set $quest2Badge = false>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Give Quest 3 Badge">><<set $quest3Badge = true>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Remove Quest 3 Badge">><<set $quest3Badge = false>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Give Quest 4 Badge">><<set $quest4Badge = true>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Remove Quest 4 Badge">><<set $quest4Badge = false>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Give Quest 5 Badge">><<set $quest5Badge = true>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
<<button "Remove Quest 5 Badge">><<set $quest5Badge = false>><<goto "developer options">><</button>>
(These badges are placeholder images).
Goto a passage (passage name must be entered correctly, case sensitive)
<<textbox "$gotopassage" "">><<button "goto">><<goto $gotopassage>><</button>>
<<print Story.get(passage()).domId>>
<<back "Go Back">><img src="images/passages/morning.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Student Dorm">
You wake up in your room, sprawled across your bed. You admit to yourself that you're not feeling 100%. It must have been the strange dinner you ate last night. It wasn't up to the usual home cooking standard.
You go [[to the kitchen|downstairs2]].<img src="images/passages/downstairs.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Parkwood Accomodation">
There's either no-one else in the house or the others are still asleep. You contemplate breakfast. The insides of your head already feels like scrambled egg. You can only manage a glass of water and a teaspoon of Nutella.
You remember the induction event at your school, you check your watch. It starts in 7 minutes. If you leave now and power walk you can make it in 5 minutes. Do you [[put your shoes on and make a dash for it|dash]] or decide that you need to go back to bed for a few hours to [[sleep off the hangover, err bad food|hangover]]? Surely there will be another opportunity to pick up induction information later?
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/hammer out that dissertation.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Campus Map">
In the last few weeks of the Autumn term you're like a machine. Churning out your <<print $assignmentType>>s with an air of competence that befits a final stage student. You spot Saffa walking across the plaza one day, having just come out of the Co-Op shop tucking into a warm puff pastry cheese slice. She's wearing a uniform and, after a brief chat, it transpires that her nursery job is actually at Oaks Nursery, the on-campus child day care centre. She's loving it there, being surrounded by children and using all her creative teaching skills. As well as helping with her anxiety, remaining so close to campus means she can stay in contact with some of her student friends as well.
You promise to have her round for a meal at your apartment before the Christmas break. You send a similar invite out to Zak and also to Chimmy and Tiz, on the off chance [[they would be in Canterbury before the end of term]].<img src="images/passages/fantastic evening and probably one you wont remember.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A shelf of Nutella">
You're so glad you had a big meal yesterday before venturing to K-Bar as you are surprisingly coherent and clear-headed by the next morning despite still being able to taste the garlic bread.
You multi-task checking on your phone whilst eating some delicious Nutella on toast for breakfast. There's one from your mum wishing you luck for your last exam, one from Tiz pretty much saying the same, a whole load of reminders about library books and then you spot one from Alison Wonderland from the Civil Service. You speculate whether she has got around to reading your dissertation yet.
[[You click to open it]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><<script>>
Namespace.determineGrade();
<</script>>
<<if $grade == "first">>
<<goto [[1st]]>>
<<elseif $grade == "twoone">>
<<goto [[2:1]]>>
<<elseif $grade == "twotwo">>
<<goto [[2:2]]>>
<<else>>
<<goto [[3rd]]>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/you manage to wake up in time for.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="A Confused Person">
Right, let's get this $assignmentType underway. There are no rules about waiting a certain number of weeks before you start drafting your work and you just want to get things underway.
It has been an eternity since you last did a big piece of work and you try to recall the advice given in school about planning and structuring your work. Do you persevere and see what you can come up with using [[your own natural talents]] or go onto the @@.serviceLink;<<link "SLAS">><<run Namespace.servicesDialog();>><</link>>@@ website and see if you can book yourself onto the [[assignment writing workshop]] or [[drop your Academic Adviser an email]] and pick their brains about how to get started?<img src="images/passages/have some time to yourself.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Nutella Jar">
You have an indulgent evening, just you, Netflix, a large jar of Nutella and a teaspoon. After falling asleep somewhere through the third film you're vaguely aware of being awoken by the others 'silently' coming home at around 3am. You reciprocate by 'silently' getting yourself some breakfast at 10am the following morning!
At some point you become aware that it has started snowing and looks to be settling on the ground quite quickly. You wonder if [[lectures will be affected in any way|lectures affected 3]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/time to yourself2.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Jar of Nutella">
You have an indulgent evening, just you, Netflix, a large jar of Nutella and a teaspoon. After falling asleep somewhere through the third film you're vaguely aware of being awoken by the others 'silently' coming home at around 3am. You reciprocate by 'silently' getting yourself some breakfast at 10am the following morning!
At some point you become aware that it has started snowing and looks to be settling on the ground quite quickly. You wonder if [[lectures will be affected in any way]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $nutellaScore += 1>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/submit a concession online.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Computer Room">
Surely they can't expect you to continue without a laptop and recover all that research in time?
You quickly submit your online concession and upload a photo of your laptop in numerous peices for good measure and click 'upload'. You sigh with relief now that you can focus on the other pieces of work that are due in before Christmas. You can work on those in a study hub.
The day before the end of term, your house hosts a [[full Christmas dinner]].
<<if visited() is 1>>
<<set $acaScore -= 2>>
<</if>><img src="images/passages/credits.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Alison and Joe">
The One Hour Degree game has been produced within and financed by the <a href="https://www.kent.ac.uk/studentsuccess/" target="_blank">Student Success Project</a>.
This game was<span id="devtools"> developed </span>and written by Alison Webb, and technically implemented by Joseph Riley. Both Alison and Joe are pretty cool, even in the summer.
Special thanks to Dr Heidi Colthup for her invaluable insight on research into simulation gaming.
Our thanks are also given to <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jimhigham/" target="_blank">Jim Higham</a>, who has provided some of the very finest photographs of our wonderful parkland campus.
The narrative of this game was developed using the open source software called <a href="https://twinery.org" target="_blank">Twine</a>.
Background music for the graduation video has been provided by <a href="https://www.ashamaluevmusic.com" target="_blank">AShamaluevMusic</a>
<<back "Go Back">><img src="images/passages/graduate.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="Canterbury Cathedral">
Your very last day at the University of Kent will be spent in the stunning surroundings of the Canterbury Cathedral. It’s time to go and get fitted for your gown and mortar board then make your way through the ancient passageways and cloisters into the great cathedral itself. Shake hands with the <span id="karen">Chancellor</span> and collect your very well deserved certificate. <b> Turn up the volume and enjoy every moment.</b>
<video width="100%" height="auto" autoplay controls controlsList="nodownload">
<source src="videos/graduation.mp4" type="video/mp4" >
Your browser does not support the video tag.
</video>
With a virtually infinite number of pathways through the game, why not play again and see how different choices impact your outcome?
[[Play Again|Restart]]Find out more about the main characters in the story by reading their [[Character Descriptions]].
Numerous University of [[Kent Services]] are referred to throughout the game. These are described in more detail here.
Game Version: $betaVersion
Last Updated: $lastUpdate
<<back "Go Back">>Throughout the "One Hour Degree" you will encounter many characters along your journey! Some of which you meet often, others not so much. Each character has their own unique personality. Click on their names to find a bit of information about each character.
<div class="grid-container">\
<div class="grid-item"><img id="Tiz" src="images/TizDesc.jpg" class="characterimg" alt="Tiz">
[[Tiz|TizDesc]] </div>\
<div class="grid-item"><img id="Chimmy" src="images/ChimmyDesc.jpg" class="characterimg" alt="Chimmy">
[[Chimmy|ChimmyDesc]] </div>\
<div class="grid-item"><img id="Zak" src="images/ZakDesc.jpg" class="characterimg" alt="Zak">
[[Zak|ZakDesc]] </div> \
<div class="grid-item"><img id="Saffa" src="images/SaffaDesc.jpg" class="characterimg" alt="Saffa">
[[Saffa|SaffaDesc]] </div>\
<div class="grid-item"><img id="Bob" src="images/BobDesc.jpg" class="characterimg" alt="Bob">
[[Bob (aka Pomeline)|BobDesc]] </div>\
<div class="grid-item"><img id="Gabriel" src="images/GabrielDesc.jpg" class="characterimg" alt="Gabriel">
[[Gabriel|GabrielDesc]] </div>\
<div class="grid-item"><img id="Mark" src="images/PartridgeDesc.jpg" class="characterimg" alt="Mark Partridge">
[[Prof. Mark Partridge|PartridgeDesc]] </div>\
<div class="grid-item">\
<img id="Dave" src="images/DaveDesc.jpg" class="characterimg" alt="Dave">
[[Dave|DaveDesc]] </div>\
<div class="grid-item">\
<img id="Jo" src="images/JoDesc.jpg" class="characterimg" alt="Jo">
[[Jo|JoDesc]] </div>\
</div>\
There are many [[Other Characters]] in the game too!
<<back "Go Back">><img src="images/passages/kent services.jpg" class="passageimg" alt="University of Kent Sign">
'''School Student Support''
School student support is your first port of call for any difficulties a student may be experiencing. They provide pastoral support for students who are experiencing long or short term personal or medical difficulties which may interfere with their studies. They offer a confidential service and are committed to providing students with a high quality school based support system. They will also be able to put students in touch with other, more specialist university support services if appropriate.
''Academic Advisers (AA’s)''
Academic Advisers are provided for all undergraduate students at Kent. Your adviser is usually an academic within your school and has a subject connection with what you have chosen to study. They support your academic and professional development and will encourage you to develop your independent learning and personal planning skills. Students should meet their AA’s once a term to make full use of the support and opportunities available to develop graduate attributes and skills. AA’s can also provide written referencing for further career or research opportunities so it is important to stay in close contact with your AA to ensure they have all the information required to write a detailed reference! You can find out more about Academic Advisers here: https://www.kent.ac.uk/teaching/advisers/index.html .
''Student Learning Advisory Service (SLAS)''
SLAS’s mission is to guide student achievement and enhance the student learning environment. Their dedicated team of learning advisers offer everything from 1:1 appointments to group workshops and even access to Royal Literary Fellows! SLAS champion a range of useful online resources and tools, such as the Assignment Survival Toolkit (ASK) https://www.kent.ac.uk/ai/ask/index.php . SLAS have extensive knowledge and advice to all students whether they are concerned with organisational skills, essay writing techniques, dissertations, presentations, referencing or revision. They are the one-stop-shop for anyyone who is interested in boosting their academic prowess to the max. For more information about SLAS go to https://www.kent.ac.uk/ai/ask/index.php .
''Careers and Employability Service (CES)''
Staff at the Careers and Employability Service are committed to helping you make the most of your achievements by providing advice on everything from CV and cover letter writing, surviving assessment centres, interview techniques, career planning and job searching. They leave no stone unturned! Their newly renovated offices provide students with the very latest learning and presentation environments. Whether participating in one of their organised events or taking advantage of some 1:1 advice, the CES has something to offer everyone to help improve their employability and chances of success. Find out more about this service at https://www.kent.ac.uk/ces/advice.html .
''Library Services''
The magificent Templeman Library sits right in the centre of the campus and has recently undergone a colossal renovation programme. Spread over 4 floors, it contains a plethora of books, multi-media and journals (to name a few) for you can access throughout your degree. Their handy LibrarySearch tool allows you to search for and locate any book with ease, right down to the shelf it sits on. There is even has a laptop and headphone loan service. There are a variety of study spaces available, from group study hubs to silent and general study areas as well as PC rooms and printing/scanning facilities. In addition, the Academic Liaison team within the library offer can advise students on literature searching, referencing, open access and research needs. Find out more about all the facilities available to you from this impressive library at https://www.kent.ac.uk/library/index.html .
''Information Services (IT)''
Information Services organise your IT account as well as providing email, wifi, software and PC and printing support. In short, everything that you cannot live without! As soon as you register, you will be set up with your IT account which will unlock a whole host of services for you. You can raise a helpdesk ticket with them at any time and their professional team will be there to help in no time. You can find out more about Information Services at https://www.kent.ac.uk/itservices/index.html .
''Student Support and Wellbeing (SSW)''
SSW’s aim is to ensure that your time at Kent is a positive one and can provide a wide range of support for you to access your learning needs. This may be in the form of note takers, helping to identify specific learning difficulties, helping with lecture and exam arrangements, applying for relevant funding, counselling and creating Inclusive Learning Plans (ILP) to help you learn. SSW can also help if you have specific requirements relating to a disability, can provide emergency wellbeing support and access to medical assistance. You can find out more about this incredible service at https://www.kent.ac.uk/studentsupport/
''Student Data System (SDS)''
All your student data is accessed via SDS. This includes your contact information, your attendance, your modules and marks. It is a useful place to see a summary of your development to date. You will get access to your SDS record once you have completed registration and have been allocated your IT account. For more information on SDS go to https://www.kent.ac.uk/csao/sds/index.html .
''Progress Profiles (PP’s)''
PP’s have been created by the Student Success Project to provide a colourful graphical representation of key data in SDS. It allows you to quickly identify patterns in your learning and attendance and to highlight particular strengths and where anomalies or areas where further skill development may be useful. The PP is the perfect starting point for any conversation you have with your Academic Adviser. For more information on PP’s go to https://www.kent.ac.uk/studentsuccess/progressprofiles.html .
''Moodle''
Moodle is the University of Kent’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Every single taught module will have an associated page on Moodle that you can search for via the unique module code. This gives you access to information such as an outline of what the module will contain week by week, who will teach it, what the reading list is (links directly to the library – amazing!), what key resources are available, what are assignments are due and a tool for uploading them (called Turnitin). The Moodle pages change each academic year as the modules change. You can find out more about Moodle on https://www.kent.ac.uk/elearning/moodle/index.html?tab=information-for-students
''Assignment Survival Kit (ASK)''
The ASK tool has been developed as an online tool to help students plan their time when completing assignments. The user enters their assign