Going (back) to University

HarryT

Hello everyone,

We know that lots of you in this space might be going to university in the coming weeks, and wanted to create a space for you to talk about how you are feeling about it all.

Whether you are a fresher who is going to be navigating the world of university for the first time, or a returning student who is heading back to continue your studies after the summer, we know that you might be experiencing a whole range of different feelings and emotions. Know that they are all valid and okay - being a student is a complicated thing for a whole range of reasons, and those reasons are different for each of us

If you're a current or a former student, do you have any tips or advice to share on how to best manage the transition back into studying again after the summer break? If you're just starting out or continuing your university journey this autumn, how are you feeling about it all?

If you'd like to talk about anything then we're here for you.

You might also find some/all of these resources helpful:

• The Student Room - this is an online forum, a bit like our community, where you can ask questions to other students and meet those who will be studying at your university before you start.
• Student's Unions - Most universities have a Student's Union, who tend to organise welcome events early in term. Most will also have an independent advice service if you need help or support with things like accommodation or your studies.
• Save The Student - This website has a helpful packing checklist that you might find useful if moving away from home.
• The Mix Student Life Articles - Our website has a range of articles covering content on all aspects of student life, from to expert advice on student loans and how to manage your money as a student.

Good luck, folx. Remember we'll still be here for you as you head off to university this autumn!

fiona333

@HarryT thanks for the advice and resources, really appreciate them.

I’m headed into second year, I’m a bit apprehensive of returning due to the workload and not getting the grades I hoped for last year. I spend the summer reflecting on what I learnt, not only academically but about myself. I’m trying to use last year as a learning opportunity to improve and as motivation to keep thriving.

I’m planning on being more involved in my community, such as joining societies, getting a part time job. I will also be living with flatmates this year, I lived alone last year. I managed to find my flatmates through my accommodation Facebook group, as well as joined a Snapchat group with other people in the same accommodation.

Amy22

@fiona333 I wish you good luck for going into second year. I hope all goes very well for you and that it is a enjoyable year. I know I'm not going into uni or have been to uni. But I just wanted to say going back to uni can be quite daunting. I felt the same the other day going back into my second year of college and I was nervous yesterday. However it went better than I thought it was going to. I'm sure you will do fantastic in your second year

sinead276

Good luck to everyone going or returning whether its into first year, second or third. The start of every school/academic year can be daunting as there's always some form of readjusting to be done in terms of settling back in and getting into the swing of things after the summer break.

As a recent graduate who has been through it all, I'd say - Remember to enjoy it. Yes the workload can become heavy at times but if you put your minds to it, you will get through it and succeed. And whilst the academic side is important as you are aiming for great results in degrees, remember to take time for yourselves and socialise with friends too, as your mental health is at least equally (although probably more than) important.

Wishing you all a wonderful time

Sinead