Student Opinions on Halls Connectors - A VoxPop Story

Free breakfast at Kingston Bridge House put on by halls connectors.

Kingston University students shared their thoughts on halls connectors and whether they are useful and beneficial to their allocated halls.

Their job is paid and their role is to put on events, be a person of contact and show newcomers their way around in each of the universities’ five halls.

One Kingston Bridge House resident said: “I think it’s nice that they put on events like free pizza and breakfast mornings. It’s a good way for students to socialise or meet with people in the accommodation.”

The connectors mainly organise food-related events but they are also there for students who may be struggling with university life and need any guidance.

“I have never needed to use a halls connector but I do believe they are a good idea to have for students because it’s nice to know that there is someone you can speak to or answer any questions you have,” said Lucy Claydon-Smith.

However, some events don’t provide many options for dietary requirements and are therefore less inclusive of all residents.

“A lot of the food events are inaccessible to me as I can’t eat gluten. This means I can’t join in on pizza night or get breakfast in the morning. Even though they’re lovely ideas and are really enjoyed by many, I can’t participate which is a shame,” said Miriam Veil-Powley a Kingston Bridge House Resident.

Not all students are aware of halls connectors after their main role during Fresher’s Week as helpers for new students.

“I’ve never used or even been really aware of halls connectors, but I am sure they are massively beneficial to some people. I’m sure they’re comforting to many people, especially those who arrive at uni early, or from a foreign country,” Powley went on to say.

Despite their role for each of the halls, many students are still unaware of them near the end of the academic year.

By Eleanor Yates