Uni is a lot of things. First and foremost, it's a chance to do a good bit of learning. Many of you will probably be going to university for a combination of reasons. You might not be sure what else you’d do; you probably want to learn more about your subject; you need a degree to progress in your desired field; or, you just think it sounds like a lot of fun.
Whatever the reason, you’ve made the decision, so it’ll be worth you reading on to see what three things I wish I’d considered when I went off to uni.
1. Choose your modules early
This is definitely one of the biggest (academic) blunders made by uni students in their first year. Not choosing your modules early. I know there is a lot to process when starting out at university, and modules might be at the very bottom of the list. But what you need to remember is that you will spend a great deal of time delving into the topics you’ve chosen in your first year, and so your time will be a lot more enjoyable if it’s spent on things that you have a lot of a least a little interest in. So, during your induction, make sure you know when module allocation will be released and get ready to choose.
2. Get your money’s worth
The second thing I wish I’d known is the need to get your money’s worth. It sounds strange to think that this isn’t obvious, but many will not realise how much support and how many opportunities are available to students at university. For example, you have access to thousands upon thousands of books on a plethora of topics – and you have access to them all without any additional cost. You can learn about any topic you like, so don’t think that the library and its works are only useful for getting a first. Not only do you have the library, you also have professors and lecturers who are experts in their field, and they are getting paid to support you – so make sure they do. And finally, you have 100s of societies and groups that you can get involved with. So choose your hobbies and make some new ones – you won’t get an easier opportunity to do so.
3. Enjoy
And finally - saving the best for last – enjoy. Uni is an incredible experience and it’ll fly-by, so make sure you do things that will make it enjoyable. Yes, it’s work, and there is a need to do more and more as you move through your degree. But that doesn’t mean you aren’t meant to have fun. You will no doubt have periods of stress, so make sure you look at it as a necessary part of learning, and not as something that will always be there. Personally, I gave myself more stress than necessary by leaving things to the last minute, or missing lectures and seminars. I exchanged short-term comfort for greater discomfort in the future. Now, you will all do that to a degree, but it doesn’t have to be like that – so bear it in mind. Eventually, you'll find the balance between having fun in the moment, and making sure things are fun for future you.
In sum
University will be an experience. I had high highs and low lows, but still look back on it really fondly. My hope is that, now that you know these 3 things, you’re experience will be that little bit better. If you’d like to learn anything more about how to get the most out of your academics at uni, or if you'd like to learn how to get better at writing for History, Philosophy or English – then get in touch. I’m here to help.