Mature Students
We recognise that some of the interests and concerns of our Mature Students may be different from those of their fellow students who have come directly from school or college. If school seems like a distant memory to you the information on these pages will hopefully help to ease the transition to university. Have a look at the mature students' FAQs and Case Studies to learn more about being a mature student at the University of Reading.
Events for Mature Students
The University of Reading is committed to supporting all of its mature students and there are various Freshers' events that are timetabled especially for you.
Pre-sessional 'Preparing for University' event for mature students
Tuesday 20 September, 09:30-16:30
Whiteknights Campus
This popular event is offered to all mature student entrants with a confirmed place to study from Autumn 2011. It gives you the chance to get a head-start on your induction to the University. You can meet other new mature students, hear the experiences of existing students, attend some introductory study skills workshops, get your Access/Campus card (if you have completed your online enrolment) and generally get used to campus. Please note that there are limited places at this event, so it is essential that you book. Booking opens at the beginning of September. Details are on the event webpage on the Study Advice website.
Mature students' welcome meeting
Monday 3 October, 11:00-12:30
Palmer Building, Room 1.09
This session welcomes new mature students to the University and introduces some of the opportunities that will be available to you. It will include a welcome from the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Professor Rob Robson, a talk by a current mature student, and the opportunity to raise your questions and concerns with a panel of helpful contacts at the University.
Mature students' daytime social event
Thursday 6 October, 14:00-15:30
Carrington Building, Room 101
An opportunity to meet other mature students informally and chat about how the week has been going so far. Tea/coffee and cakes will be provided. No need to book.
Mature students' Big Freshers’ Week Quiz
Friday 7 October, 14:00-15:30
Carrington Building, Room 101
So, what have you learnt so far? This informal social event will test both your general knowledge and your knowledge of the University. Join a team when you get here, or bring your own (teams of 4). There will be prizes for the winning team. A lighthearted way to end your first week at University!
Essay Writing Workshop for Mature Students
Wednesday 26 October at 14.00-15.30
Carrington Building, Room 201
This workshop will focus on understanding appropriate practices for essay writing at university. It will be of interest both to those students who have not written essays recently, and to those who have recently written essays at college or Access courses.
For more information on any of these events, visit the Study Advice Workshops webpage. The Study Advisers offer confidential one-to-one advice sessions, free guides to more effective study and workshops on effective study practices throughout the year, including some specially targeted at mature students.