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City lights up as students arrive in Bristol

Press release issued: 15 September 2017

Buildings on Clifton Triangle and Park Street were lit up in a vibrant greeting to students last weekend as the University of Bristol welcomed over 9,000 new students to the city for the start of the new academic year.

The three buildings which were lit include the iconic Wills Memorial Building, the beautiful Victoria Rooms and nearby Beacon House.  All were adorned in University of Bristol colours and emblazoned with the University logo, serving as visual signposting for new students seeking out key University landmarks.

The University attracts students from over 120 countries as well as hundreds of local students, all of whom contribute to the vibrancy of the city.

A recent survey showed that 34 percent of University of Bristol students take part in voluntary activity, contributing tens of thousands of hours per year.

In 2015, students at the University of Bristol and UWE dedicated 140,000 hours to volunteering on sustainability projects in contribution to the city’s year as European Green Capital.

Students lead and take part in a range of projects, from working in primary schools across the city and helping children with reading and writing to leading workshops to inspire pupils. They also run schemes to support disadvantaged young people and lead befriending and support groups for older individuals.

Students also get involved with and lead on a range of entrepreneurial activities that benefit the city, from sustainable food pop-ups to a new cleaning company set up to provide employment opportunities specifically for refugees.

Alicia O’Grady, Director of External Relations at the University of Bristol, said: “The contribution of our students to the city’s culture and economy cannot be underestimated and we never fail to be amazed by the ways and willingness with which students engage with and benefit the community. We look forward to welcoming both new and returning students to our fantastic city”.   

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