Feature: Top Tips for Starting University

Starting university brings with it a lot of responsibility and can be a very daunting and stressful period. Here is a list of tips from St Mary’s University, Twickenham to try and ease the stress and ensure you get the best start to your academic career. 1. Get your Finances in order – It can be very difficult to manage your money and for some this will be the first time you will have to do so at this level, so, it is important to start as you mean to go on. Signing up for a student account is simple enough and can be arranged by visiting your bank, make sure to check there is a local branch close to your university so you can visit if you need to. Student bank accounts have a number of benefits tailored to students’ needs including interest free overdrafts. Once you have your account information you can arrange for your accommodation fees, loans and any other payments to transfer to and from this account. 2. Know your surroundings – By familiarising yourself with the campus and surrounding areas it will make your start to university smoother. Sus out where the local supermarket is and transport routes, this way you won’t be completely clueless when you arrive. Make sure you check out the university library and other learning facilities. 3. Check social media – Opportunities are often promoted online through social media and the university’s website. Many universities have forums or groups set up online that provide the means for you to get to know your fellow students and find out about upcoming events. Follow St Mary’s on Facebook and Twitter at @yourstmarys. 4. Do your research – Get a head start on your course by looking at the module guide, these usually can be found online or hard copies can be obtained from the university. By looking at the recommended reading for your course you can ensure you know what to expect and are not surprised on your first day. 5. Pack sensibly – It is important to be prepared and pack items that you will need and use at university. It is not uncommon for students to feel home sick so it is advised to bring a few home comforts but not too many. Remember that if you are staying in halls of residence space will be limited. Stationary, notepads and books are essential. 6. Be friendly – Make the most of your first week and try to get to know your fellow students and Lecturers. Having an open and inviting attitude will ensure this and you will be able to make some lifelong friends as well as building good working relationships with lecturers which will be very beneficial over the next few years. 7. Don’t worry about writing everything down – Writing down every word your lecturer says in a two hour lecture will leave you with a very stiff arm and a huge pile of note sheets that you will eventually have to compress down for revision. Try to write down the main topics of the lecture with a few sub headings and key information. Many lecturers post notes online which can help refresh your memory. 8. Listen – Listen to your lecturers, you will learn a lot about university life and your course in the first few weeks so it is very important that you listen to what they have to say. 9. Use all available resources – While at university you have access to a wide range of professional resources and facilities to aid your study. Libraries, lecturers, learning advisors and the internet are all there for you to take advantage of, so make the most of it. 10. Find a balance – Although fresher’s week is a very important part of starting university and usually involves a lot of socialising it is important to remember the main goal of university. Set aside some time each week for studying as well as social activities, that way neither will be neglected.