University is a time of learning and growing as a person, but it is also a time for having fun. It is important to remember the importance of balancing work with pleasure. There are many societies and sports clubs based around specific interests, so there should be something for everyone.
To help you get your university life off to a good start we have put together a list of our top 10 tips on how to make the most of your university life.
1 . Participate in student societies and sports clubs
Joining a society is the best way to get involved with your university town, meet new people and stay motivated while studying. You can choose from a range of classes including art, business, dance, film or music. In addition, there are generally clubs that are linked with specific careers, for example, veterinary or nursing.
2 . Take notes in lectures to ensure you have enough time to have fun
Most students will agree that the best thing about university is being able to enjoy yourself while having the chance to learn new things. However, it is important not to take your academic studies too lightly. Although lectures are not the most structured form of teaching, there is a lot to be gained from being fully prepared by taking notes in every class.
Advise your tutors if you have specific learning or memory difficulties, so they can adapt their teaching style to help you learn efficiently. Taking part in group work will also help boost your confidence, as well as being a great way to meet new people.
3 . Relax with some sport
Most universities have a sports centre, so there is no excuse for not doing at least a bit of exercise! Most classes will run throughout the week and into the evening, so everyone should be able to find time for a workout. It is a great way to get fit and spend time with friends.
4 . Sign up for a part-time job
Although many students have the luxury of enjoying their university life without having to work, it is important that you do not take this privilege for granted. It is a good idea to think about whether studying and working will enhance your experience of university life, or make it more difficult.
There are also many opportunities to find jobs locally through Freshers' Fairs or online as the year goes on. Most places will be keen to employ students as they know there is a high chance you will want to stay on after your course has finished. If you choose not to work it is still important to have a budget, so you can enjoy your university life without spending too much.
5 . Stay in touch with family
It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of being away from home that you forget about friends and family who are not in university. However, it is important to maintain contact with the people who love you, especially if you are away from home for the first time.
Depending on where you are studying it may be difficult to get home at weekends. It is therefore important to keep in regular contact with your family. If they live far away, there are many ways of staying in touch, including social media and video calling. This will ensure that you are never out of the loop.
6 . Join student societies on Facebook
There is no harm in joining a few extra groups on social media, as this can be another great way to meet new people. Many student societies have their own Facebook page where you can find details of events and keep updated with what is happening on campus. It is also a great way to advertise your events and share your ideas with other students.
7 . Attend Freshers' Fairs
Most university towns will hold at least one Freshers' Fair during the first few weeks of term. This is a great opportunity to find out about all of the societies, services, and facilities that are available on campus. You will also be able to meet the societies at the fairs, so you can find out whether they are right for you.
If your university town has more than one institution it is likely that there will be a number of Freshers' Fairs taking place. However, if there are lots of students attending then queues may be long and you may miss out. It is, therefore, a good idea to visit as many fairs as you can before deciding which societies to join.
8 . Get involved with student media
Student media can be a great way to develop new skills and meet like-minded people, but there are a number of things that need consideration before taking part. You must remember that you will be given an editorial role and your work may go to print, online, or on-air. Make sure you feel adequately equipped before deciding to stand for election or take up a position.
If you do decide to get involved with student media there are plenty of opportunities available, such as writing articles for the student newspaper, blogging about your experience, and presenting for the radio station.
9 . Get involved with student politics
Student politics is another good opportunity to get involved in your university life, but it can be a big commitment. If you do decide to become involved there are many roles that need filling, such as sabbatical officers (president and vice-president), sports and societies officer, welfare and diversity officer, and resident's association members.
Before joining up you need to consider what the role entails and whether your university life will leave enough time to be an effective representative. If you do decide that this is for you make sure that you keep yourself informed about all of the campaigns you want to take part in.
10 . Try lots of new things
If you are at university you need to make the most of it! Try to do as many new things as you can, even if it is just for one night. You never know what will become a weekly tradition that you truly love!
We wish you all the best in your new endeavours as a university student! There will be good times and bad times, but once you graduate they'll all be memories you look back on fondly.
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