Heading to Uni for the first time? It’s certainly a rollercoaster of emotions isn’t it? The anticipation, the excitement, the nerves and anxiety…it’s a lot to take on and process. Speak to any graduate and they’ll happily tell you all the things that they wish they’d known before they went to University for the first time.
Everyone’s journey through Uni is different and there are no right or wrong ways to go about it. As long as you take your studies seriously and enjoy your first taste of adulthood, you won’t go far wrong! So, with all this in mind, I’ve taken down 5 of the most helpful tips to help you prepare for University for the first time.
Get the right equipment
Having the right equipment at your disposal will certainly make your studies much easier! From laptops to tablets, word processing software to grammar checks, citation programs and plagiarism checkers – check out this website for more information – having all the right software in place will make you feel confident in your studies and you’ll get a head start. But don’t forget your insurance!
Learn how to cook
We’re not talking Gordon Ramsay or cutting edge knife skills but learning the essentials of cooking will certainly help you stay happy, healthy and it’s certainly kinder to your bank balance. Living off takeaways and microwave meals sounds like the done thing, but it’s not good for you. Learning cook simple meals like spaghetti Bolognese, macaroni cheese, a simple stir fry etc will certainly go down a treat with your housemates too!
Learn how to budget
When that student loan comes through, it’s a great feeling. Many students probably haven’t seen that amount of money in their bank account before! And while it is tempting to spend it all during Freshers Week, you need to exercise caution and restraint. That money has to last! Learning how to budget will not only make your money go further, but you’ll be able to see what you’re biggest spends are, and you can make the executive decision of whether or not you need a job. Keeping on top of your finances also means you can focus on your studies rather than worrying about your money situation.
You don’t have to be friends with everyone
Uni is like a new chapter of your life, which means it’s full of new people. But don’t feel pressured into being friends with everyone you meet. Not everyone gets on with their housemates and uni life certainly isn’t how it is portrayed in American teen dramas. Head to lectures to meet new people with similar interests, hit the gym, head to clubs and social gatherings and see what happens.
Don’t be afraid to reach out
Loneliness, isolation, homesickness. All these are normal in the first few months, but it doesn’t mean that Uni isn’t for you. Most new students feel this way, which is why it’s important to reach out and talk about how you’re feeling. Speak to your housemates, friends on campus, tutors other members of staff if you’re struggling.