Starting University: A guide to the first week!

Are you starting university this year? Going to university is both exciting and scary for new students. It’s a big step with lots of new challenges both academically and personally, but it’s also a lot of fun and incredibly rewarding. You might be leaving behind your old friends, school and family, but this is a chance to push yourself in new ways by pursuing a subject that you are passionate about and meeting new people.

If you’re nervous for the big move, remember that all new students are in the same boat and worried about the same things whether it’s making new friends or finding the way to your first lecture. It means you’ll all immediately have something in common, which is a great way to make friends!

You’re probably already busy preparing for the big move and you’ve probably already heard a lot about what’s to come. When you get to university, you’ll suddenly be given more independence than you’ve ever had especially if you’re moving away from home. This means that as well as studying for your degree, you’ll also be learning to cook, take care of yourself, manage your money and much, much more. University isn’t just about getting a degree, it’s also a chance to learn more about yourself and what you want to do with your life. Balancing so many new responsibilities can be challenging, and it may take a little while to get used to your new surroundings and routine.

Here are our top tips for starting university:

• Keep an eye on any welcome emails that may be sent to you by your university. These may contain useful information on your timetable or reminders about important freshers' week events
• Follow your university's social media channels for the latest information and advice before and throughout your first year
• If you'll be moving away from home for university, it's a good idea to get unpacked early. The days that follow may be busy, so it'll be wise to get your room as comfortable as possible from the get-go
• Get familiar with your new surroundings: Where's the nearest shop? Where's the laundry room? Where do you collect your post?
• There will be lots of events going on in the first week. The Freshers' Fair will have lots of information about the societies on offer. This is a great chance to start something new or meet friends with a shared interest.

Most importantly, we hope you enjoy it! Starting university can feel both exciting and daunting. It may take time to settle in but before you know it, you will be familiar with your surroundings and will have made new friends to share the experience with.

Best of luck from us all at Ivy Education!