Surviving your first term at uni
Meeting new people, drinking silly amounts of alcohol, getting to grips with a new approach to studying, figuring out how to work a washing machine - the first term at uni holds many challenges. Here's how to make the most of the madness.
"Bringing your friends and family down and showing them around will involve them in your new life"
How can I make friends?
Meet your new course mates and flatmates before you even leave home. "There are thousands of Facebook groups for you to speak to people," says second year Multimedia Journalism student Jade Barringer. "I'd spoken to several of my course mates before I started, and one or two of my flatmates." Hang out in the communal areas, rather than locking yourself away in your room, and take the opportunity to socialise whenever you can." Definitely get to know the people on your course, because your course mates introduce you to even more people," advises recent journalism graduate Lucy Wright. "Student club nights are always a winner, as well."
What should I do if I get homesick?
Everyone feels a bit homesick when they start university. One solution is to go home for the weekend once or twice a term – getting a 16–25 Railcard or using Megabus can make this affordable – but don't run off too much, or you'll find it harder to settle in. Better to get your parents to come to you! "Bringing your friends and family to your uni town and showing them around will involve them in your 'new' life and won't make you feel so distant from your old one. You could organise a big night between your new housemates and friends from home," says Jade.
Which clubs should I join?
It's fine to join the skydiving club or Buddhist meditation society if that's what floats your boat – but remember the clubs you join might be useful for your CV after you graduate, so it's worth keeping a strategic eye on this. If you want to be a journalist, for example, make sure you get involved with the university newspaper. Sports teams can be a great way to meet people and show you have drive and teamwork skills. And if you want to demonstrate your commitment to helping others, most unis have student community action societies.
How is studying at uni different from studying at school?
In terms of actual work, in most cases you'll be expected to go to a mixture of lectures and seminars, study in your own time and complete coursework. You might find the lack of contact time hard to deal with at first – have a look at our time management article for advice on dealing with all that 'spare' time.
How often should I go out?
The explosion of parties, pub crawls and other social occasions in your first term can be a lot of fun. But try and hold back until you've found your feet and have met friends you can rely on to get you home safely. It's not a good idea to miss too many lectures because of hangovers in the first term – save that till you know what you're doing. Try and alternate wild nights out with nights in, trips to the cinema and other activities. And attempt not drinking a few nights a week – your liver will love you.
What about sex and drugs?
Obviously, sex and drugs can both be fun; otherwise they wouldn't have such appeal. But both carry risks – especially when mixed together with booze. You need to look after number one here. Make sure you use a condom if you have sex, and be aware that one-night stands are rarely the route to a long-term relationship. If you're offered drugs, think carefully, especially if you haven't taken them before. Because illegal drugs are unregulated, you can never be sure exactly what you're buying. Will your new mates look after you if you're not having a good time?
How can I manage my finances?
Put simply: Budget. Andrew Hagger of financial website moneynet.co.uk has the following advice: "Work out roughly what money you have available to spend each week and try to stick to it. Don't get carried away and blow all your money in fresher's week. If you find you're struggling with your finances, speak to the student advisor at your bank. Don't bury your head in the sand as the problem won't go away, and worrying about money could have a negative impact your studies."
By Emma Lunn
Photo by volunteer photographer Adam Costello
What next?
- It's cheaper (and helps with homesickness) to book travel ahead – thetrainline.com and megabus.com are your friends.
- Pack the right gear – don't forget your sports stuff, swimming costume, fancy dress outfits. That way you'll be well equipped to join in with any fun on offer.
- Sign up for society Facebook groups relevant to your interests at uni to make sure you stay in the loop.
- Stock up on non-perishable food before you start term and get lots of sleep – eating regularly and healthily will help you avoid 'fresher's flu'.
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