🎓 Top 5 things we wish we knew before starting uni?
Hi everyone!
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
Reply 1
Original post
by UniofReadingHi everyone!
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
Hi!
This is a great idea so I thought I could give my five things too.
1.
Don't worry if you feel overwhelmed at first.
You will gradually start to get used to being at uni and managing your time well so don't worry if you feel a little bit overwhelmed at first as this is so normal! Uni is a completely new experience and everyone will be feeling this to some degree.
1.
Make the most of the university services.
You might as well try and make the most of everything that is on offer as you are paying for it after all. See what your library puts on to support your learning as I know that a lot of universities do skills and study sessions which are really helpful.
You will likely also get some subscriptions with your uni account- you may get Microsoft office, or access to databases such as mintel and statistia so make the most of these too.
1.
Don't feel embarrassed to ask for help.
If you need help with your uni work, your tutors are there to help you and they will go through things with you and ensure that you understand what you are doing. Book an appointment with your advisors too if you need to as this is what they are there for.
Similarly, if you are struggling at all make sure you reach out to the support and wellbeing teams at your uni as they are there to help you and they are very helpful.
1.
Make your room feel like home!
This was a big one for me as once I had decorated my room and filled it with things from home, I felt a lot more at home here and was less homesick. It sounds like such a small, silly thing but it really did help me. Unpacking as soon as you can is a good idea too as I left mine and it was starting to feel quite overwhelming which didn't help with the homesickness!
1.
Get involved as much as you can.
You will hear it loads, but joining societies is honestly a great thing to do. You will meet so many people and there will be such a wide range to choose from so there will probably be something you like. It also just gets you out of the house doing something fun which is so important.
I hope some of these help!
Lucy -SHU student ambassador 🙂
Reply 2
I love this. It's a great idea! 🙂
Here's my 5 things I wish I knew before starting university:
1- Have patience: We are all different and it takes everyone a different amount of time to adjust and make friends. I expected to make all my friends during freshers week but that wasn't the case. There are many other opportunities and ways of making friends.
2- It's okay to feel nervous and overwhelmed: Remember that you aren't alone in feeling overwhelmed and there are other students in the same boat. University is a big adjustment and change so it's normal to take time to get used to it.
3- Make time for yourself: There is so much socialising in the first few weeks of university, so don't forget to make time to recharge and have your own space. Breaks are super important when it comes to studying too, to keep you motivated and focused.
4- Use the student support services: Familiarise yourself with the student support teams like academic support and wellbeing from year 1. Make the most of these whilst they are available to you as they are there to be made the most of. It's okay to get support with whatever it is!
5- Get yourself out there: Make the most of the opportunities at uni and get yourself out there. Get involved and say yes to as much as you can. My lecturer told me to say yes to everything and that has stuck with me since then. Saying yes to everything you can manage that is of course. Building connections and experiences will also get you out of the house but grow your confidence. Put yourself outside your comfort zones, that really helped me grow as a person.
Let me know if you have any questions 🙂
Hope this helps,
^Zac
Here's my 5 things I wish I knew before starting university:
1- Have patience: We are all different and it takes everyone a different amount of time to adjust and make friends. I expected to make all my friends during freshers week but that wasn't the case. There are many other opportunities and ways of making friends.
2- It's okay to feel nervous and overwhelmed: Remember that you aren't alone in feeling overwhelmed and there are other students in the same boat. University is a big adjustment and change so it's normal to take time to get used to it.
3- Make time for yourself: There is so much socialising in the first few weeks of university, so don't forget to make time to recharge and have your own space. Breaks are super important when it comes to studying too, to keep you motivated and focused.
4- Use the student support services: Familiarise yourself with the student support teams like academic support and wellbeing from year 1. Make the most of these whilst they are available to you as they are there to be made the most of. It's okay to get support with whatever it is!
5- Get yourself out there: Make the most of the opportunities at uni and get yourself out there. Get involved and say yes to as much as you can. My lecturer told me to say yes to everything and that has stuck with me since then. Saying yes to everything you can manage that is of course. Building connections and experiences will also get you out of the house but grow your confidence. Put yourself outside your comfort zones, that really helped me grow as a person.
Let me know if you have any questions 🙂
Hope this helps,
^Zac
Reply 3
Hi all!
(as an aside, did you know that guitars are allowed at uni?!, that anyone can run for election to the SU committee, and anyone can start a new society if they have enough sign-ups?!)
1.
Its normal to feel confused, overwhelmed and lonely at the start - just give yourself time to settle into your new routine and style of studying, and keep putting yourself out there to meet people, and things will get better!
2.
You are not alone if you are confused by assignment briefs - so use your peers, talk to them and share ideas. I found this so reassuring and helpful as it let me know I was on the right track.
3.
Its fine to use your lecturers for help - ask their opinions on your ideas for an upcoming assignment, use their office hour, ask them for feedback, or to read over bullet pointed essay plans - many will be very happy to do these things. It is positive and extremely helpful if you are vocal with your lecturers about what you're finding difficult and what you need from them to help you.
4.
You don't need to spend all of your time studying! - how much you do will vary by day and by time of year, but you absolutely do not need to be working all the time. Take a part-time job, get involved with societies and clubs, meet with friends, or just relax - extra things are so important to make your uni life varied and fun and to protect you from burnout.
5.
You are not on your own - you have your uni's wellbeing service, academic skills centres, here at Bath we also have MASH who are here to help you with mathematical problems whatever course you are on, the student money advice service, the accommodation teams, peer assisted learning schemes - you are not expected to do uni life on your own. If you need help, there is so much support available so please don't be afraid to use it 🙂
(as an aside, did you know that guitars are allowed at uni?!, that anyone can run for election to the SU committee, and anyone can start a new society if they have enough sign-ups?!)
(edited 4 weeks ago)
Reply 4
Original post
by UniofReadingHi everyone!
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
Hi everyone!
I am now in my final year of university and here are the top 5 things I wish i knew before starting! 🙂
1.It is okay not to have it all figured out! Everyone arrives feeling nervous even if they look confident. It takes time to settle in and find your rhythm so don't compare your uni experience to others!
2.Budgeting is important! Tracking your spending early on really helps later in the term 🙂
3.Join societies! This is the best thing I have done. I didn't join any in my first year and I wish I did now! I joined one in my second year and I am now on the committee having made amazing friends!
4.Make your room feel homely! This is such a great way to feel at home and happy when at uni! I loved decorating my room and this really helped me settle in fast.
5.Trust the process! 🙂 Everything will work out in the end, it just may take time!
I hope some of these help!
All the best,
Millie
BSc International Development
Reply 5
Original post
by UniofReadingHi everyone!
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
Hi Sid, thanks for sharing these; they really help, and I do agree with so many of them.
I am a postgraduate law student and a ULaw ambassador, and there are definitely things I wish I had known before coming to university, especially when I started studying law.
One thing I would add is that it is totally okay for your interests or plans to evolve as you go through your degree. Many students feel pressure to know their exact pathway at the start, but university is often when people find what truly fits them. Taking time to explore your strengths and what you enjoy can make a big difference later on.
I also found it helpful to create a simple structure for the week to stay on top of reading and assignments. It need not be complex, but a consistent routine makes everything much easier when the workload increases. Small, steady habits usually work better than trying to tackle everything at once.
Use the support services on offer: from wellbeing, to careers, employability, library and study skills & more
Lastly, I now know how valuable it is to speak with students a year or two ahead: through societies, mentoring schemes, and casual conversations, one can learn from others' experiences, be reassured, and receive helpful advice.
These are excellent tips, and I am sure they will help many students prepare to head to university.
Best regards,
Faith Law MA Conversion Student and ULaw Ambassador
Reply 6
Original post
by UniofReadingHi everyone!
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
I’ve been thinking about all the things I wish I knew before starting uni, so I thought I’d share a few, and it would be great to hear yours too (a few of my fellow ambassadors will be commenting there’s below - so keep an eye out for more top tips!)👇
1️⃣ Asking for help with coursework and exams is normal! 📚
It’s easy to think uni is completely independent - and while you are expected to learn more on your own, there’s still loads of support if you reach out. From office hours (where you can book a slot with your lecturers) to simply sending them an email, they’re there to help you - and you’re paying for it, so make the most of it!
UoR Study Support
2️⃣ Find a routine that actually works for you. 📆
Don’t stress about copying how others study or organise their time. You might already have a method that works! Uni is a big change, so creating a study plan or even setting a day for chores or shopping can really help. A diary or planner can be a lifesaver - everyone’s different, and that’s totally fine.
OU Planning Tips (+ check-out 5.)
3️⃣ Feeling lost at first is completely normal. 💬
Uni is a huge life change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. There’s support out there - talk to your tutors, reach out to friends, or even your GP if you’re struggling. Most universities have free mental health services and wellbeing specialists through the SU, so don’t hesitate to use them.
UoR Student Wellbeing
4️⃣ Join societies and clubs! 🎪
It’s one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home. I’m part of the Photography Society and currently the secretary and it’s honestly been such a great way to get involved and to fill up spaces in your weeks and have free time (this is really important). Every uni has loads of options, from sports to hobbies, so check out your Freshers’ Fair or SU website. Many societies even offer free taster sessions!
UoR 100+ Societies
5️⃣ The Practical Basics: Living away from home. 🛍️
From cooking to budgeting, uni teaches you a lot about independence. Most unis offer support for this too - so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone’s figuring it out as they go!
UoR Life Tools
❓Is there anything you wish you knew before starting uni for others or maybe you are starting uni and have questions, drop them below!
Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday
Hi @UniofReading 👋
This is a great idea and great tips!
Here are my 5 tips for everyone 😄
1) It is ok to feel overwhelmed. Starting university can be daunting especially how this is a whole new stage of your life with all the independence and responsibility. You will learn new aspects and it can feel like a lot but trust me when I say it will all work out as long as you take time to learn everything and stay organised.
2) Making friends can take time. Do not worry if you have not made friends in your first few weeks, in the first few months, in your first year or your second year. Many people start the year with lots of friends and end up only seeing 2 or 3 of them in their next year. It is better to find true friends later in your course than have many who are not as interested in being a friend other than for convenience. So do not worry about not making friends yet!
3) Ask for help! If you need help with your work, ask your lecturers- be it in class or out of class in their office or support hours. At Essex, we have designated times where students can drop in to ask for help from their lecturers and it is always a popular time. Ask your course mates any questions as well!
4) Spend time on yourself. Yes, it is important to stay focused on work and academics but spend time on yourself as well. Pamper yourself, have a relaxing day off, spend time with your friends. A nice day out or a night out always makes a difference in a stressful time. Every Wednesday and Sunday, I have a day to have a nice pamper session and relax and start the next day and week refreshed 😊
5) Have faith in yourself and believe that everything will work out. You are incredible people and you deserve your place at University. You worked hard and you should be proud so get to university and keep going and be the best version of yourself. Have the best time at University!
Essex Student Rep - Lavanya 💜
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