Going off to uni is exciting. You make friends and new experiences, and shape who you'll become.
But it comes with a lot of noise as well. The sights, the sounds, everything is novel: You don't know what to expect, and it's all so fast.
The good news is that almost every fresher has the same feeling.
In this post, I'll walk you through 10 things every fresher should know so you're on the right foot.
1. It's Important You Enrol at the University
Enrol at your university formally before Freshers' Week even starts. This officially makes you a registered student. You have to submit documentation such as visas, eligibility, protection, etc.
Your enrolment letter contains your student number and login details for the university portal. This portal is very important.
You'll need it to access your course materials (lecture notes), submit assignments, and register for your modules. It's also important for you to contact faculty, pay fees, and generally deal with other admin.
Ensure you make copies of your enrollment paperwork and keep them as proof of your student status.
You'll probably have to prove registration regularly for your council tax exemptions, bus passes, society memberships, and part-time job applications.
2. Freshers' Week is Important, But You Don't Have to Overdo It
Freshers' Week, short for Freshers' Orientation Week, is designed to help you settle into university life.
Typically, there's a full slate of fairs, talks, parties, and events to discover interests and connect with your coursemates.
Embrace this week, but don't overdo it. You don't want your memories of your first week to be some sort of blank slate or a giant regret.
If at any point you feel uncomfortable, use common sense and head home. Have fun, but stay safe.
3. Attended Your Lectures Religiously
Yup, your mum was right. Going to lectures is really important if you want to get good grades! Listen carefully, take good notes, and engage in discussions when you can.
Record lectures if you're permitted so you can play back the lectures you don't understand. You can use study tools like Note AI to summarize notes. It's good you go over notes after each class while the details are still fresh.
4. Your First Year Counts More Than You Think
You might think your first-year grades don't matter because it's just an intro. Well, that's a big mistake! Your first-year grades set the foundation for your GPA, and it's harder to improve as you go on.
A lot of courses build on each other. It's good you understand the basics now so you can understand the advanced concepts next year.
If you find yourself struggling, you might need a study group or a tutor to help you. There are study tools like Tutor Me and Spark E that can help you study more efficiently.
You have to take your studies seriously right from the start. This way, you'll better retain material, have time for fun, and avoid burnout.
5. You Need to Have a Budget
University costs can be more than you think. There is tuition, accommodation, textbooks, printing, nights out, takeaways, and clubs. Even with loans or family help, you still need to have a budget and try to continue with it.
Some great apps, like Mint and You Need a Budget, can help you keep track of your expenses. You can even set alerts so you don't exceed your limit.
Plus, you can automate your savings so you have some money set aside for the things you need before you even think about spending on other stuff. Having a budget helps ensure you have cash for the things you need and a little fun.
And you can always adjust your categories each month once you get a better idea of what university life actually costs. These apps can also help spot any bad spending habits you might have and help you fix them.
6. You Need to Develop Good Study Habits
Lectures and assignments can easily pile up before you know it. Unlike high school, nobody is on your neck to ensure you complete your schoolwork, attend classes, or prepare for exams. Truth is, that sense of responsibility falls totally on you.
What does this tell you? You need to learn how to manage your time and cultivate a good reading habit.
You can use a calendar to keep track of your commitments and allocate some time each day to study. Take this seriously like you're preparing for a test. Consistency is really important, so try to stick to the routine.
There is no harm in experimenting with different study techniques to see what works for you. Apps that help with retention, like Quizzes AI, can also be very helpful.
7. Be Aware of Campus Safety and Your Surroundings
With everything new and exciting in college, don't neglect your personal safety. Take a long stroll around the campus to learn about some things and possibly areas to avoid at night.
When you go out at night, stick to places or areas that are very well-lit rather than deserted shortcuts. It's good you let your friend or roommate know if you'll be home late. Trust your instincts if something feels unsafe so you can leave or get help.
8. Never Leave Assignments Until the Last Minute
Getting that paper or lab report done on time when you're not used to the workload of college is challenging. It's tempting to leave assignments for later and have fun instead. You really have to fight that urge!
Procrastination only stresses you out and never ends well. You'll end up staying up all night, turning in crap at the last minute, or missing deadlines for big penalties.
9. Take Your Health Seriously
Health often gets neglected between classes, social activities, and maybe a part-time job. Sleep-deprived, living off takeout, and partying hard—this chaotic lifestyle may be fun now in your late teens/early 20s, but it's not sustainable.
If you feel rundown or constantly dealing with homesickness, you have to take care of yourself. Prioritize proper rest, nutrition, and exercise. Set reminders to take your meds or eat a green salad if you need to.
Say no to things that are too much for you. Keep an eye on your moods, and talk to a counselor if you're feeling really sad or anxious. Don't struggle alone.
10. Start Thinking About Your Future Early
The university is about more than just academics. This time should prepare you for a successful career. Use the summers to intern, build skills with online courses, or network in your industry.
You can also visit the career office for guidance on grad schemes or job options for your degree. Evaluate your interests and strengths to narrow future pathways and research salaries, growth potential, and day-to-day realities of those careers.
Conclusion
College is all about opening doors to endless possibilities.
You can figure out talents you never knew you had and build lifelong friendships that'll shape who you become. But, if we're honest, it won't be a walk in the park. You'll need help along the way.
That's exactly why I just walked you through 10 things you need to know as a fresher in university.
Stay open, take responsibility, and enjoy the journey of discovering yourself during this awesome chapter.
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