Living Black at University Commission Report 2022/23 Living Black at University Commission Report 2022/23 1.1 INTRODUCTION Melissa Browne The transition to university can be challenging for new students, Deputy Director of Commercial Services who face the stress of adjustment, change in environment and & Estates at University of Kent lack of pre-existing social support at the same time as they may 1 Rebecca O’Hare struggle to navigate new spaces and discover who they are. Interim Deputy Director of Residential The opportunities to socialise and build a community within Services at the University of Leeds purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) can sometimes help with these challenges, but for Black students, this can be 2 a di昀케cult and stressful environment. When Black students have a positive experience of arriving at university and attending orientation events, it helps foster a sense of belonging. Orientation programmes designed for Black students provide a space where they can connect with peers who may share similar experiences, backgrounds and challenges. This can reduce feelings of isolation and increase Black students’ sense of community, making them feel more supported and included within the university environment – which, in turn, can contribute to improved academic performance and higher retention and graduation rates. Positive experiences during orientation – such as being able to engage in activities that celebrate their heritage and access ARRIVAL & resources which are tailored to their needs – can also empower INTEGRATION Black students, boost their con昀椀dence and make them feel valued and appreciated. By recognising and amplifying their perspectives, universities can encourage Black students to become active 1.1 Introduction 13 1.4 Case study: 18 participants in their education and overall university experience. Newcastle University Orientation programmes also connect and network students 1.2 Recommendation 2 14 1.5 Case study: 20 with faculty, other employees and alumni; establishing these relationships early on can be particularly bene昀椀cial for Black 1.3 Recommendation 4 16 University of Southampton students in receiving tailored guidance and mentorship while navigating university for the 昀椀rst time. 1.3 Recommendation 6 17 Universities that prioritise and celebrate DEI send a clear message that Black students' identities, experiences and contributions are 1 valued. This validation can positively impact their mental health, Dr Lesley Scanlon, Louise Rowling and Zita Weber, self-esteem and overall wellbeing, and creates an environment ‘You don’t have like an identity… you are just lost in a crowd’: Forming a Student Identity in the First-year Transition to in which they feel supported to grow and succeed – contributing University’, Journal of Youth Studies, 2007, p.223-241 towards a more inclusive and equitable experience. 2 Zak Foste, ‘Oh, That’s the White Dorm': The Racialisation of University Housing and the Policing of Racial Boundaries’, BACK TO CONTENTS Journal of College Student Development, Volume 62 Number 2, March-April 2021, p169-185 12 13