Whether you’re starting University for the first time or returning to your studies. The change of lifestyle can be overwhelming for some. There are many freshers out there that are getting anxious about moving to a new town or city. Leaving their family behind. On the other scale, parents equally anxious for their adult children. Those parents who are going to miss their children as they move away for university. Do you know how to be ready for University?

My experience

Having worked in higher education for almost twenty years, I have always been in some sort of student support role.

I’ve worked in many departments in a University from the clearing hotline to graduation, I’ve been there from the start meeting a perspective of a student, parent and even from an Academics point of view. Most of my roles have been supporting undergraduate students with the occasional supporting of postgraduate and research students.

Freshers Week

The first year of being a fresher can be daunting for many students and a staggering 65% of students starting their degree come to university without knowing anyone. This is the first challenge they choose to accept, but this is where freshers week comes in.

Students will be facing the first few weeks to get acquainted with their new digs, whether it be halls of residence or a private rental. Some students are even lucky enough to find a university close to home, which enables them to stay close to their family and friends.

This unique week (two weeks at some universities) is used to inspire and encourage students to take part in activities and groups where they’ll make new friends. This week is also an opportunity to look deeper into their choice of degree.

Having previously met students that purposely chose a university away from home acquire some sort of independence, they tend to have quite mature and open approach. However I don’t think many realise that they have so much support on their campus at their fingers tips. All things that can help to be ready for University.

Parents

In that first week the parents will worry. They will wonder how their children who are now young adults be coping with these changes. Whilst working in student support we would be inundated with calls from worried parents wanting to check on their children. Unfortunately that information about the students cannot be shared because of GDPR. 

Because of this one of the things I used to say to students was contact your parents regularly. Suggesting to put reminders in their phone, because the weeks do fly by. It is easy to forget to do this when there is so much going on.

I encouraged parents to set up an social media accounts so that they can keep up with what they’re doing. Making sure that the students regularly update status and check into places, which isn’t as time consuming. At least that way the parents have peace of mind.

Resources

When I first started working in higher education the first major projects I took part in was the student handbook. Back in the day before the internet and apps, when it took me weeks to put the handbook together. Because now it’s all downloaded to a smart phone and permanently in your pocket! Make proper use of it, don’t just use it for the timetable because there is SO much more on it.

Enjoy yourself, but stay focused

That first year is for fun to be had, make good quality friends and take part in anything you enjoy doing. At the same time understand your degree and the modules you’ve chosen and if you’re going down the right path. There are options for you to change these modules, but it is productive if you make the correct choice first.

Use your personal tutor because they are there to support you. As backup you could always go to an academic who you have a good rapport with. In most universities you have the option to change your personal tutor if needed. (speak to your student support services office about this.)

In my career of working in a University I have met many academics who were extremely supportive. There was one particular Academic I worked with that students praised on a regular basis. He was also great to work with. I asked him what advice he would give to students. Especially for those who were just about to begin their studies that would help them to be ready for University.

Any new environment can be confusing, so if you have questions, always ask; don’t let unanswered questions fester. Learn the rules of how things work. Keep up and don’t fall behind and finally, Take advantage of the available opportunities for engagement.

Professor Jim Anderson, BA, PhD, PFHEA, University of Southampton

The second year should be the year to be focused on more what you’re studying. Making good use of the campus to work, the atmosphere of the chosen place of study helps to encourage this.

Communication

Know about what goes on at the university. As well as knowing that there are policies and regulations for each situation so ask questions if you’re not sure. Every university has a student services where you can get guidance about anything.

I hope that this post has helped with being ready for university.

Support

These are few of the resources I’ve often passed on to students in the past.

https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/student-life

http://www.studentminds.org.uk/uploads/3/7/8/4/3784584/180531_kbyg_interactive.pdf