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Uni Life

Five Things Every Student Should Do When They Start University

So, you’ve gotten over Freshers and have settled into the swing of lectures. However, there may be some things you haven't checked off your list. 

Olivia Jade Thristan
by Olivia Jade Thristan
Last Updated:
05 Sep 2019

It's easy to get into a routine when you start university, however doing these five things will not only get you ahead academically, it’ll also make uni life that little bit easier and enjoyable. 

Explore Your New Surroundings

For most people, going to university involves moving to somewhere new, far from the familiar comforts of home. So, the first thing you should do when you get there is take the time to explore your new area.

You can make a start by looking online, but there’s no substitute for actually getting out there and experiencing social spaces, cultural venues, and the flavours of the local streets for yourself.

Oh, and it’s probably worth working out where useful places like the nearest big supermarket and the post office are too…

Join Some Clubs & Societies

Whatuni spoke to Carmen Andreica, Careers and Student Services Manager at London College of Contemporary Arts (LCCA), who told us of the benefits of joining a society when you start university:

"Participate in as many social events as possible and sign up or even start a club or society. Uni is a time of discovery and growths and any activity will contribute to that. Speak to your tutors and student services staff as they can provide you with useful information and advice."

There’s a huge range of clubs and societies at most universities. Want to practice your French? Expand your knowledge of arthouse cinema? Get a regular session of football/ultimate frisbee/Thai boxing? This is your chance! 

Don’t be coy about joining a few – if you don’t like it, there’s no obligation to keep going. And who knows, you might discover your true passion.

>> Find out which uni students voted as having the best clubs and societies!

Get Ahead On Your Reading

In terms of academic standards, going to university is a leap up from school. If you’ve been accepted that’s because you’re capable of making this leap – but it can’t hurt to give yourself a bit of a head start.

Try to get a little bit ahead on your reading list. Even if you don’t have time to tackle anything in great depth, just reading a little around the subject matter can be really useful.

The advanced ideas you’ll be exploring at university can seem daunting at first, so this is a good way to make sure you don’t feel lost in those early days.

Find Out About Career Oppotunities

You may have only be at uni for a week, but it's never to early to start thinking about your life after graduation.

So start scoping out potential internship positions, work experience or volunteering opportunities - anything that will boost your CV.

As Carmen advises: "Take part in voluntary work as often as possible and undertake internships, as this will enhance your learning experience and will provide you with great insight into the chosen field of study. This is also a great way to meet people and create useful contacts."

>> Find out why it's worth getting work experience while at university 

Get to Know Your Tutor

Another way to ensure that you don’t feel lost is to get to know your tutor. It’s easy to feel intimidated by these ultra-serious-seeming academics – are they going to be interested in helping you with your problems?

The answer is that they are! Modern universities are putting a greater and greater focus on teaching, and part of this is making sure students are supported by their tutors. If you’re struggling or need to talk something through, they’ll be there for you.

It’s up to you to take advantage of this, though, so make sure the channels of communication are open.

Talk To People

Speaking of communication. You’re going to be surrounded by new people at university; introduce yourself, get involved in conversations, talk to people.

As Carmen says: "Be friendly and open minded. Maybe you are not an extrovert, and socialising is not really your strength, however that does not mean that you cannot build meaningful relationships. Keep in mind that people you meet at university, are going to become your professional network after you graduate, which is a powerful tool in your career development."

Not only that, it’s highly likely that some of the people you meet when you start university will end up being your closest friends for years to come.

Everyone is in the same boat, so don’t be shy. And if you are of the shy variety, maybe you could try one of those societies we talked about above.

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