Paul Cashman-Roberts
Survival guide for your first semester at university
Just before I went to university (I am currently studying law) I stated to feel very nervous about this big change, and don’t be fooled it is a very big change. It becomes a pinnacle moment in your life. Because it’s these first few months that you decide whether university life really is for you. So I am writing this short survival guide to help you to know what to expect and how deal with it when it comes along.
Pack and buy early…
make sure you get down to your local Wilko or Asda as they always have a great university student section, full of everything from pots and pans to bedding.
Socialise!
Fresher’s week is great, but just make sure that you don’t stay in your room and isolate yourself. Go out and socialise! Or you will find when Christmas comes you don’t really know anyone.
Go to lectures!
Of course you can miss the odd lecture and it won’t make much of a difference. But when it comes to second year and you need to speak to your lecturers about relevant work experience/ course content, they will be more willing to help you if you actually turn up.
Do your work,
Yes university is a great laugh and you will make lots of friends, but don’t put off your work till the last moment! Because you will regret it, it is very rare that you can start a piece of work a week before it is due and still get a good grade.
Call your parents
Seems silly, but you will never miss home more than your first semester at university, and your parents will never miss you more. So keep in contact with friends and family back home.
And have fun
This is the last point, because if you don’t have fun what’s the point in going!
These are just a few points that I thought would be helpful, so make sure you make friends, do your work and have fun.
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