Making the most of your first year at university
For the majority of students, university will be the best time of your life. For some, it will be the most life changing experience with lots of obstacles along the way and the journey, as a whole, will teach you a lot more than just your degree. As the end of your first semester is nearing, see some top tips below for how you can make the most of the rest of your first year at university.
Get involved!
Whether its sports teams, socials or societies make sure you try something new in your next semester. It is a great way to meet new people, learn new topics and also keep fit! From football teams and cheerleading to Netball or Chess club, Star Wars socials or weird and quirky Golf or Spanish clubs! Remember they don’t always have to include alcohol either so do not be put off by the idea of trying something different!
Ask questions
Do not be afraid to ask questions! Whether it’s your peers, students in their second or third year, tutors, lecturers or even an employee at the local gym. You never know what tips or tricks you may pick up along the way. There may be some secret discounts or car park spaces that you didn’t know about, or a revision guide or a better workout to do! Remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question!
It’s never too late to meet new people
If you think you’ve completely settled in and made your set circle of friends already, then think again. Yes you may still be friends with these people in years to come, but remember you still have nearly 3 years to meet new people and push yourself out of your comfort zone! Never say no to meeting new people and do not hold back on trying out new things when invited!
Part-time jobs and Internships
Getting a part-time job whilst at University may be daunting, but it will prove to be very rewarding. Once graduated and applying for full time permanent roles, interviewers will want to see that you were pro-active whilst studying and have a good work ethic. It also gives you a chance to earn more money over busy periods such as summer and Christmas holidays. (After all, who doesn’t love a bit of extra pocket money?)Gaining ‘real’ work experience in the industry that you wish to work in will prove crucial in your job search. Without relevant work experience, many companies will not consider your application without this. Gaining an Internship can also help decide your career path if you are unsure as to what to do after Graduating. It is a great way to learn new skills and develop relationships within the industry and help kick start your career!
Budget!!!
Creating a finance spreadsheet in your first year at University will help you manage your money as best as possible and keep track of what your outgoings are. This will make it evident that the odd meal deal and morning coffee do in-fact add up and prioritising your dinner for the week over a night out is more important! Make note of your direct debits and put this money aside each month.
(Creating a separate direct debit bank account is a good idea!)Catch up with your parents and friends back home
Do not forget home! Your parents and friends are probably missing you a lot more than they let on. So don’t neglect them! Put aside time every week for a FaceTime or Skype and let them know you’re OK. Bring some home comforts with you such as; your mums washing powder, your favourite duvet/blanket and some photos. For when you’re feeling a bit homesick, these will be sure to pick you back up again!
In Summary
The first year at University is a steep learning curve for many students. Becoming completely independent from cooking to budgeting you will be sure to learn a lot about yourself and the way the world works as an adult!
Try not to turn anything down and seclude yourself from activities. Get into a routine of waking up early and making your 9am lectures. Make friends, and socialise (especially with the people in your halls!).
Securing a part-time job will help manage your time effectively. It will be beneficial to your CV and for future employers to see after graduating that you have a conscientious work ethic and are able to juggle both work and studying. Lastly, and most importantly for the majority of students – it will top up your bank account!
