Going to University in the UK
All You need to know
This guide is built by students for the students and aims to provide you with the knowledge and top tips essential for navigating your journey as a university student in the UK. Let’s dive in!
Starting University and what to expect
Starting university is an exciting new adventure packed with opportunities, excitement, and challenges. As a fresher, you might feel a whirlwind of emotions—from anticipation to nervousness—and that’s completely okay!
Don’t forget: It’s normal for most freshers to feel this way. After all, you’re on the verge of leaving home, meeting new friends, discovering a new city, and starting a course of study that could define your future.
Selecting the Perfect Course: Key Considerations
Selecting the ideal course is among the most crucial decisions you’ll make as a first-year student. With many universities offering a wide array of courses, the decision can feel overwhelming.
Be sure to review the reading list for each degree subject. These lists offer a glimpse into what you’ll study over the next three years. If the reading list ignites your interest, it’s a promising indicator that you’re heading in the right direction!
Keep in mind: Reflect on your interests, career aspirations, and the course curriculum. Explore online resources such as university websites and UCAS to gain insight into the content of each course.
What is freshers week?
Meeting new people
Joining Societies
Get to know your campus
Once you’ve secured your spot, you’ll kick off your
university journey with Freshers Week, a week-long lineup of events crafted to greet incoming students.
What’s this? I thought Freshers Week was all about partying!
Don’t worry! While there will be plenty of partying, Freshers Week offers much more. It’s an opportunity to meet fellow students, build connections, and jumpstart your university experience. The friendships you establish during this time can endure throughout your university journey and beyond.
Wondering what to expect?
Your first week will be bustling with activities. From daytime freshers fairs where you can explore the Students Union, to evening social events ideal for forging new friendships, Freshers Week is an exciting time!
Get ready to dive in and familiarise yourself with all the happenings (it may feel overwhelming!). Don’t miss the Freshers Fair, a highlight event for students, where you’ll discover clubs, societies, and campus facilities.
Navigating Freshers Flu: Strategies for Staying Healthy
The notorious ‘Freshers Flu’ refers to the cold-like symptoms that numerous students encounter in the initial weeks of university. With late nights, hectic days, and meeting numerous new people, it’s no wonder many end up feeling under the weather.
To maintain your health, prioritize nutritious eating, ample sleep, and moments of relaxation. Additionally, keep in mind that most universities offer on-site health centers, so don’t hesitate to seek assistance if you’re feeling unwell.
Making Friends at University: Useful Advice
Embarking on university can feel overwhelming, but it’s essential to remember that all new students are in the same situation. Engaging from the start and connecting with your new pals is a vital aspect of the university journev!
Explore Societies:
Whether you’re into Football or Netball, there’s a club for everyone to join.
Attend Freshers Week Events:
University Applicants offers event recommendations, so don’t miss out-freshers only happens once!
Be Proactive:
Take the initiative to get to know people in your university lectures and halls of residence. Friends don’t make themselves!
Join a Sports Team:
There are sports clubs for just about everyone at university. Rugby? Skiing? Chess? No problem.
Connecting online and joining communities is a fantastic way to bond with your future flatmates and classmates even before setting foot on campus. Don’t forget to explore our Whatsapp chats for your university through the “meet new friends” Button at the top!
Navigating Student Accommodation:
Exploring Halls of Residence and Private Renting
When you start university, securing accommodation is one of the initial tasks you’ll face. As a first-year student, your primary accommodation option will likely be halls of residence. These are typically university-managed accommodations where you share a flat with other students from your university
Halls of Residence
Living in halls offers a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and fully immerse yourself in student life.
Remember, everyone is in the same boat, adjusting to this new and exciting chapter. Spend time with your flatmates to foster a friendly atmosphere, making your new city feel more like home.
Private Renting
You may eventually opt to move into private accommodation with a group of friends. This entails more responsibilities, such as liaising with a landlord, managing bills, and handling household chores.
It’s a significant step toward independence and can add an exciting dimension to your university journey.
Future Flatmates: Cultivating Positive Relationships
When opting for shared accommodation after your first year in halls of residence, your choice of flatmates becomes crucial. Living with friends can enhance your university experience, but it’s crucial to ensure compatibility in terms of lifestyle and expectations. Remember, your best friend may not always be the ideal flatmate.
Practicing consideration, open communication, and equitable division of responsibilities can foster a positive atmosphere. If conflicts arise, endeavour to address them calmly and constructively. Living with others offers a valuable learning opportunity, imparting essential life skills such as compromise, respect, and teamwork.
Time Management at University
Transitioning to university from school is a significant adjustment. The newfound freedom and flexibility of university life can be both stressful and daunting. Effectively managing your time is essential for balancing academic commitments, social engagements, part-time work, and self-care.
TIP:
Creating a weekly schedule that incorporates classes, study sessions, social activities, chores, and relaxation is a wise move.
Remember to allocate time for meals and ensure you get enough sleep to maintain your health.
It’s important to remember that it’s okay if your schedule doesn’t always go as planned! The aim isn’t perfection, but rather to create a balance that enables you to enjoy all facets of your university
experience.
Exploring the Town: Embrace Your New Home!
Regardless of whether you’re relocating to a quaint town or a vibrant city, familiarising yourself with your local area is an essential aspect of the university experience. Your town will be your home for the next three years, so take the opportunity to explore it.
Get to Know Your Campus:
Take the time to learn the layout of the university and become acquainted with the campus. Discover the local hangout spots and don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with other first years who may seem lost! Be sure to explore:
Lecture Halls
The Local Library
The University’s Student Union (SU)
Local Cafés and Restaurants:
Explore the vibrant food scene in your new city, whether it’s the cosy coffee shop ideal for afternoon study sessions, the late-night pizzeria, or a hidden gem serving the best brunch in town!
Keep an eye out for establishments offering student discounts to help you save money. Additionally, if you’re seeking part-time jobs for students, cafés and restaurants often have openings for extra income!
Visit Local Landmarks:
Explore the historic sites, museums, parks, and other points of interest that your university town has to offer. Discovering these local landmarks will deepen your connection to your new home.
Find Convenient Shops:
Locate nearby supermarkets, convenience stores, and pharmacies to make your daily essentials easily accessible. Knowing where to find necessities like toilet roll and baked beans will simplify your life!
Discover Local Venues:
Uncover beloved local pubs, cozy cinemas, vibrant music venues, and other places to unwind and enjoy yourself. Finding these venues is an essential part of your experience!
Use Public Transport:
Familiarize yourself with the local public transport system. Understanding bus or train routes will help you navigate the town effortlessly.
The Students Union (SU): Representation, Support, and Community
The SU holds a pivotal role in university life, serving as the voice of the student body and advocating for your interests to enhance your university experience. Additionally, the SU offers various services, including advice, support, and the coordination of social events and activities to foster a vibrant student community.
Keep in mind: It’s common for most students to feel this way. After all, you’re on the verge of leaving home, meeting new people, exploring a new city, and embarking on a course of study that could significantly influence your future.
Student Finance: Managing Student Loans, Bank Accounts, and Saving Strategies
Navigating student finance is a vital aspect of university life, it can be daunting. However, with careful planning and smart habits, you can effectively manage your money. As a UK student, you’ll likely depend on a student loan to cover tuition fees and living expenses. It’s crucial to understand how these loans operate, as it can significantly impact your bank account in the long run!
Your student loan:
Keep in mind that a student loan isn’t unlimited money; it’s a debt that you’ll eventually need to repay. Therefore, it’s essential to spend it wisely and try to budget accordingly.
Consider opening a student bank account. Many banks provide accounts tailored specifically for students, offering benefits such as interest-free overdrafts.
Time to budget:
When it comes to saving money, prioritising smart choices is key. Take advantage of discounts whenever possible, budget for essentials, and look for ways to cut back on expenses like coffee or dining out. If financial concerns arise, remember that most universities offer financial advice and support services to assist you in managing your finances.
Student Discounts: Capitalise on Your Student Status!
Enjoying a range of discounts is one of the perks of being a student. Whether it’s shopping, dining out, purchasing cinema tickets, or booking train fares, discounts can significantly reduce your expenses.
Be sure to obtain a student discount card and explore online platforms and local businesses offering student deals. You’ll be amazed at the savings you can make simply by presenting your student ID.
Utilising the University Library and Online Resources
The university library is not just a space for borrowing books; it’s a wealth of resources that can significantly enrich your academic journey. In addition to physical books, most libraries provide access to a plethora of digital resources, including e-books, online databases, and academic journals.
Tip:Universities offer access to online learning platforms and software tools. Explore these resources early on and integrate them into your study routine. Additionally, don’t overlook the reading lists for your courses, which can be accessed through the library or online.
Balancing University Life and Mental Health
University life can indeed be stressfull, but it can also bring its fair share of stress. Juggling academics, social engagements, budgeting, part-time work, and personal obligations can feel overwhelming at times. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritise your mental wellbeing throughout your university journey.
Mental well being resources
If you’re experiencing stress, anxiety, or low mood, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Many universities provide counselling services and other resources to assist you.
Joining supportive societies, maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and prioritising self-care are crucial for mental well-being. Remember, it’s perfectly normal to ask for help when you need it.
Unmissable Student Resources
Weekly tips, guides, ideas & inspiration for making student life just that little bit easier.
Freshers Week 2024
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