Even if you don't know what it is you don't know, we are always happy to help. All you need to do is contact us and we'll be on the case. If it's more complex than an email would suit, we can always set up a phone call.
How long has UniSmart been going?
In February 1999 John Davey presented the first student information focussed, performance based event for Victoria University in Wellington, NZ and it was called Head Start. It was the same year John and Trudi began working together. The year following that pilot event, 'Head Start' was booked by every university in New Zealand. The first event in Australia followed soon after, in 2001 and the first one in the UK was also in 2001. The name was changed to UniSmart in 2005.
Is UniSmart only for residential students?
UniSmart was originally designed for residential students.Today,in response to requests from universities to include all first year students, UniSmart has developed to do just that. International, residential and day students will all take important messages from the lecture. Depending on the audience at any given event, the content will be adapted accordingly by your presenter.
What topics does UniSmart cover?
We regularly update content to reflect current issues. For a snapshot of topics please go to the link below.
Topics CoveredHow long is the presentation?
UniSmart is designed to run 75 minutes but may vary 5 minutes either way depending on audience participation and the amount of specific information you need incorporated. If a shorter version is required, we can accommodate your needs. However this means you have to choose what information to cut. Tricky!
Why does it work?
Surveys and feedback proves it.
Students take the information and messages on board because they are paying attention. The secret ingredient is the style of the presentation itself. It's a snappy, fast ride and the presenters are all street performers. Add the great sound track, a generous dollop of humour and the truth of the content and we have the answer to your communication problems. UniSmart doesn't preach or patronise the audience. We respect the students and they can tell.
How much does it cost?
"A top quality product which is extremely good value for money"
It wasn't us who said this, honestly. Pricing depends on the following factors: Your country, how many students, how many events (a single event costs a little more) and when you book - Early Bird bookings are available.
If you ever held a pizza night as an icebreaker for freshers, this will cost around the same per head - and fill their minds up as well.
Contact usCan I talk to someone who uses UniSmart at their university?
Our clients are happy to act as referees.
We will put you in touch with your peers who have UniSmart at their University and also arrange for you to visit a live presentation if you wish. But remember - we are only in your area once a year so it pays to plan well ahead.
Talk to your peersWhat are the Venue and Technical requirements?
It is up to you to select an appropriate venue for your needs, number of students etc. The students must be seated as for a lecture with clear sight lines. Ability to have a blackout is very important, but not critical. UniSmart is at equally at ease in a 2,500 seater Town Hall, a lecture theatre or student union venue. Lighting plot is provided for theatre auditorium style venues. A basic technical rider will be provided.
How does UniSmart fit into our orientation programme?
Break the ice and give information at the same time.
There are many different ways to use UniSmart to transform your induction. The presentation is effective as the main event following a short welcome by the VC. It works as an after dinner keynote for students and parents.It is useful as a social ice breaker. You may then want to provide an opportunity for the new students to mix. It certainly gives them something to talk about!
What are the Venue and Technical requirements?
It is up to you to select an appropriate venue for the number of students etc. The students must be seated as for a lecture with clear sight lines. Ability to have a blackout is very important, but not critical. UniSmart is at equally at ease in a 2,500 seater Town Hall, a lecture theatre or student union venue. At least two hours is required prior to the first event in a venue for set up and technical checks. A basic technical rider will be provided.
Can we include information about our own university?
Yes you can.
We have designed the presentation so that we can drop in information that is specific to your institution. For example: noise curfews, counselling information, health or security information.
You may also choose to include two images if you wish.
Are there hidden costs?
You can see straight through us.
We will be transparent with you and wouldn't have it any other way.
International travel is paid by us.
As well as the Fee, the university is required to cover the presenter's one way, economy travel to your university,local ground transfers (taxis etc), their hotel accommodation including full breakfast, your venue and audio visual hire.
How do I book UniSmart?
info@unismart.biz
A good way to start is by simply dropping us an email and make an inquiry. We will bend over backwards to get to you if you want us. There are certain weeks and days that fill up very early on, but you never know -so do try us! It's a good idea to make inquiries about a venue that will suit your needs and to establish options for availability. We need two hours before the first event to set up and do a technical rehearsal, then 60 minutes minimum between events for one presenter. An option to consider if you have a lot of students to get through over one or two days is for us to provide more than one presenter.