…it’s you and Concrete – that’s (pretty much) my whole world! (You’re welcome, fellow ‘Swifties’). I’m writing this while overlooking the Hive from Concrete’s new office just above. It’s arrivals weekend, and hundreds of new and returning students are passing through the bright and beating heart of campus below – some with clear apprehension, some with expressions of pure joy and excitement. 

However you’re feeling at the start of this academic year, as Liv Mepham discusses so well in her first Opinion piece (page 15), I also think “embracing the chaos” at your own pace is one of the best approaches to take over the coming weeks.  

The amazing variety of activities, perspectives, cultures, experiences and aspirations that make up the Home of the Wonderful is now on your doorstep for the next three or more years. But while this is an inspiring prospect, I appreciate (having felt it myself as a Fresher back in 2021) that this colourful palette of people and places can on occasion feel a little overwhelming for some of us.  

Perhaps, if you come from a small and rural community like I did, you’re not yet used to the hustle and bustle of a city, the vastness of campus life, or the odd bit of social pressure to go out. Perhaps you are, but now you want to try your hand at some ‘quieter’ interests like exploring the beautiful Norfolk Broads or regularly reading a novel by the UEA lake. Whatever ‘background’ you see yourself as coming from, whatever ‘type’ of person you feel others might perceive you as, just know that, though it may not be so apparent at first, there really is a place for everyone here. 

It’s very easy for a university or any other big organisation (or me!) to say something like, “We’re one big community here”. Sure, it may take us some time to get a sense of the UEA ‘community,’ and we don’t all get on smoothly all the time. But I can honestly say – now entering my fourth academic year here – that there is genuinely something unique and special about this little concrete jungle. I hope, whether you’re a Fresher or have been here a year or two, you’ll soon feel a valued part of this in your own way. 

Ultimately, Concrete is here as a student society – just like any other. Please come and join us (on the UEA SU website), even if you’re not sure about writing yet; we’re here to provide opportunities for all students to explore new or existing passions and interests. We’re also here, as student journalists, to hold those in positions of power to account. 

With both the University and the Student’s Union (both of whom we are editorially independent of) continuing to go through some significant changes this year, Concrete will do its absolute best to follow these closely – reporting as much information and insight as we can. In this light, please do get in touch with us with any concerns, ‘tip-offs’ or general thoughts – either via our email address (top right of this page) for confidential information or through Concrete’s social media accounts (or you can always pop up to our office on the first floor of the Hive!) 

Lastly, I’d like to extend a warm invitation to all to attend our first ‘open house’ of the new academic year up in the Scholar’s Lounge/(the new and shiny!) Concrete office on the first floor of The Hive from 7 to 9 PM on Wednesday, 25th of September. (More details on our socials and SU page!)

It is honestly such an honour and a privilege to be given the opportunity to run Concrete this year. It would not be possible for me to do this job without the help and support of our amazing team of 40, Adam Roche and Vic Jackson, in the SU, my partner Libby, and the highly talented and creative Co-EiC, Fiona Hill. 

Onwards and upwards, folks…have a great year! 

Peace, love and rabbits… 

Jamie (he/him)

Instagram: @journojamieuea

Photo Credits: Maggie Read