Each academic year Strathclyde welcome a huge number of new students and returning students to the university throughout August, September, and October. These students come from a variety of backgrounds with different levels of experience with further and higher education to start their journey at Strathclyde. All these students are welcomed into the Strathclyde family by the wonderful Welcome Team here at the Union.

The team volunteer their time to help welcome students during one of the busiest times of the year, Freshers. A lot of the events and memorable parts of Freshers wouldn’t be possible without them. They’re also all students themselves so balance being involved and starting a new year at university to make a real impact in the lives of students. Everyone at the Union is proud of all the students who’ve committed their time and enthusiasm to the Welcome Team over the years.

We chatted to Darren and Marcela, students who’ve been involved with the Welcome Team before, about their experience:
 

Most memorable moment from being part of the Welcome Team
 

Darren - During my time on the Welcome Team last year I happened to meet an exchange student whilst volunteering that had been having a bit of a rough day after travelling for many hours from Canada to Scotland. Through this chance meeting we became quick friends and now I’m taking my first trip to Canada to spend time with her and her family.


Pictured: Darren (R) in Canada visiting Emily (L), the exchange student he met

Marcela - My most memorable moment is probably when I signed up to co-host a speed meeting, only to find out that I would be the one and only host of this meeting. I started things off very professionally and started reading my prepared script, but that quickly changed to everyone showing pictures of their pets and a general discussion on the practicality of each pet. I like to think that everyone left that meeting in a good mood, I certainly was happy with the outcome.
 

Why would you recommend a student joins the Welcome Team?
 

Darren - Joining the Welcome Team is a rewarding experience, it's a chance to not only get involved with the Union but also to give something back to the Union too. It's also a great chance to meet new people that you wouldn't have had the chance to meet otherwise.

Marcela - I joined the Welcome Team last year because, to be honest, I was bored staying at home and not doing anything for the past year. I wanted to help bring Freshers back to the fun-filled week that it used to be. Long story short, it couldn’t have been a better experience. I met so many amazing people, with whom I am still in touch with today and pat myself on the back for running a few virtual activities, as well as helping on campus.
 

What should a student expect when joining the Welcome Team?
 

Darren - Joining the Welcome Team usually involves some fun team training followed by two weeks jammed packed with different activities. From packing the famous Union Tote Bags to helping organise Strath Union events, no two days are the same.

Marcela - The Welcome Team is all about being willing to contribute and give your time to make sure the events and activities run smoothly. Training is provided beforehand and there are always people around who you can ask for help if you’re in doubt. Be prepared to talk to people, engage with them and show them what Strath Union is all about.
 

What impact did joining the Welcome Team have on your Strathclyde experience?
 

Darren - Joining the Welcome Team has changed my life in ways I could not have imagined beforehand, as dramatic as that sounds. Without the Welcome Team experience for the last three years, I would not have made it this far in uni. I met my best friends through the Welcome Team, and it allowed me to get so much more involved with my Union which I wouldn't have if I hadn't joined.


Pictured: Darren on Level 2 of 51 Richmond Street 

Marcela - I could not be happier with my decision to join the Welcome Team. I have learned a great deal about the Union, which made my experience here more enjoyable. I boosted my confidence and added some new skills to my CV.
 

Want to get involved? Browse all current opportunities on our volunteering opportunities list. You can apply right up until Thursday September 1st to become part of the Welcome Team 2022/23!