Although, for most students, we are at the end of our first semester at university, it is never too late to pick up some tips and tricks when it comes to making university life that much easier. Here are twenty student tips for not only university students, but also for those preparing for next September.
It’s very clear that university, as a whole, is expensive, and with growing concerns as how to tackle such high costs, soon-to-be students tend to hit panic mode.
Your income – more specifically your Maintenance Loan – is based on your parents’ income. This means there is a chance that your accommodation and food may be covered in its entirety by the loan. If you believe this is possible, it is worth having a thorough clear-out before you leave. If, whilst packing, you find things you no longer need or want, car-boot them/sell them, and save up for the new items you’ll need at university.
It’s never too early to start saving.
Because there is so much to sort out in one go – examples being your accommodation, ID, university email address, and health care forms – you may feel overwhelmed and worry you’re forgetting to do something important.
It cannot be stressed enough how helpful a checklist is, especially if there are deadlines for submissions. It may also come in handy when making a list of items you need for university. Going from room to room in your house and looking through cupboards and drawers may prompt you to remember the smaller things you need to take. This is one of the best student tips.
Even if you’re not normally shy or introverted, university can make you feel that way, at least for a little while. For every student the question of Will I make friends? Will crop up at some point.
Once you have been accepted into university, it is normally the case that you’ll be added to a chat – typically via course subject or accommodation – on Facebook. On there, you’ll be able to introduce yourself, and this may ease the nerves of first day meetings.
Moving away from your home town to university can be daunting, and so can familiarising yourself with your campus.
Most campuses have interactive, online maps, as well as paper versions. And although the campus will seem so large in the beginning, you’ll eventually fall into a routine of knowing where to go and what to do. And remember, no lecturer or tutor is going to be mad if you get lost in the first week or two and arrive late – it happens every year.
Realising university life isn’t for you, when there is such pressure on our generation to go, may make it hard to admit you don’t actually want to commit to your chosen degree.
If you don’t feel comfortable with your university, or any university at all, it is better to say something than not. Never feel pressured to stay somewhere you don’t want to be – if you’re getting into debt, you may as well do it at a university you like, or doing a course you like, than one you don’t. Student tips don’t work unless you know yourself.
Although you may feel ridiculously nervous, you may gain some comfort from the realisation that every is in the boat. Yes, some people may be more anxious than others, but, at the end of the day, no one knows exactly what to expect. Realising this is a huge way to de-stress and, instead, feel the excitement that you should be feeling.
A lot of the time, staying focused is difficult. Find somewhere comfortable, which is free from all distractions and allows you to work in peace. For some, this may be their accommodation, but, a lot of the time, noise can seep through from your flatmates’ rooms, the kitchen, and the common room. Other options, such as the library or a cafe on campus may be more suitable.
Keeping track of your deadlines, seminar work, reading and lectures is vital. If you start to fall behind, it is very easy to keep falling until work gets on top of you. There are multiple apps on your phone and computer that can help remind you to complete certain objectives by certain dates. And there’s nothing wrong with pen-and-paper list-making either. Logging what you need to do and balancing your responsibilities will help you in the long run, especially around the exam periods, because you’ll have completed all your reading and work on time.
At first, it may seem difficult to balance work with other priorities, one being food. But food is essential – a full stomach makes it easier to work. Make time for food. Cook in bulk if you know you’re going to have an extra busy few days ahead. Always remember to eat. This is one of the most famous student tips.
Flashcards are a very helpful way of revising for the big exam. A good example would be for Law students – cases and their key facts would be easy to list and flick through. They’re often an underrated last-minute tool, but can very much earn you the marks which made change your grade.
Getting involved in a society is a really good way to make friends at university. If you’re having a hard time bonding with your flatmates – there’s no shame in admitting that – then maybe joining a society is the answer for you, as, of course, it will give you a common interest to talk about and build from there. However, if you don’t feel comfortable joining a society yet, that it OK too. Take things at your own pace; you’re your number one priority.
The multiple social media platforms on your phone, as well as emails, texts, phone calls, can all be very distracting. Being able to fully concentrate is crucial, even if it’s just for an hour or two a day. Switch it off, leave it at home, or at least put it on silent when working. That way you can complete your tasks so much faster.
Taking on too much work in one go always tires you out. If you’re working for hours straight with no break, chances are your work won’t be reaching its full potential, and you’ll feel exhausted. Breaks – even if only ten minutes at a time – are a good way to recuperate when completing seminar work, revision, or general compulsory reading. Never tackle too many tasks in one day – allow breathing room. You know why this is on the student tips list.
Sometimes, there will be hurdles to overcome that are so great, you will get yourself worked up and stressed. It’s OK to admit that you can’t do something in the time you originally wanted it done by. The point is, you tried. Never be afraid to admit you need extra time, or extra help, because it’s what universities and tutors are therefore.
There is nothing wrong is studying hard; it is for your future after all. But remember, fun is allowed. A lot of great memories you’ll look back on will surround your time on campus, so allow yourself a break every now and then. The idea is to find a perfect balance between your studies and your other goals and hobbies. Not all student tips are boring!
A very practical tip is to always carry some form of change. A lot of things could occur in which you need it. For example, you’ve misplaced your Swiftcard, you’ve forgotten your lunch, or your phone has died and you’re in desperate need of making a phone call. These hiccups tend to happen when you’re rushing around.
If you’re very goal-oriented, it’s never too early to look at vacation schemes and work experience. Employers are looking for versatile students – ones that not only do well academically, but have hobbies and interests, and some type of experience. To stand out from the crowd, throw yourself head-first into schemes and placements, and if they’re impossible to find, a bit of volunteering can go a long way.
It’s very easy to say to a student, study, eat well, exercise, have a social life, volunteer, etc, but, in reality, it can be difficult to balance them all. However, if, every so often, you can take part in some form of exercise, it is said to be very beneficial. Not only does it make you feel good, but it allows you a break from the worries that may brew from your course. To clear your mind, do some exercise. It doesn’t have to be anything big – maybe just a walk around your accommodation? It may be that refreshing moment you need in your busy day. This is on every student tips list.
Being apart from your family is tough, whether you’re living an hour away or a country away. Although keeping in contract all-day everyday is impossible, maintaining communication with your family over text or Skype is attainable. Organise times and dates where you and your family/friends can sit down and talk for a while.
Similar to point five, reflection is crucial. If something doesn’t feel right, it is better to admit that to yourself than bury it away until your half-way through your degree. Most, if not all, universities provide you with a Personal Tutor who can advise you through your problems and concerns.
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