We understand that it can be a little intimidating when you first start university. You don’t know what to expect and you might be worried about the transition, but you really don’t need to worry.
We’ve listed everything you need to know when it comes to starting university to put you at ease. Some universities, like Newcastle University, even have a helpful support service that are happy to assist you when settling in and all the way through to your graduation.
If you’re worried about starting university and the transition from everyday life to student life at, read these seven tips to make it easier:
- join societies and clubs to surround yourself with like-minded people
- balance your workload and social life (it’s easy!)
- check in with your family and tell them all about your exciting university experience
- take time for self-care if you feel overwhelmed
- embrace your culture and what makes you different
- allow personal development to happen and you’ll gain independence
- don’t be afraid to try something new
1. Join societies and clubs to surround yourself with like-minded people
This may seem like an obvious one. However, getting involved with societies and clubs that interest you is a great way to make friends. Not only is it is easy to do but there’s also a wide range to choose from, so you’ll surely find something that excites you.
For example, there’s the international society that promotes multiculturalism with fun events like karaoke. Or Socie-tea, a relaxed society that provides friendly conversation over a cup of your favourite tea. You’ll be surprised at how many options there are - we have over 160 at Newcastle University!
Being with people who have the same interests as you will make settling in so much easier and the feeling of homesickness will fade. Challenge yourself to join at least one society - you won’t regret it!
2. Balance your workload and social life (it’s easy!)
This may not seem like something that will make the transition easier, however, finding the balance between socialising and studying is crucial and will help you from the start.
Although it’s important to have fun at university, your studies should always take top priority. Establish a clear study plan from the beginning so you know exactly what workload to expect. Creating a helpful reminder will make sure you’re always prepared for deadlines and invites.
Newcastle University offers a range of services to help international students once on campus. The services include a careers service, assistance with essay writing and free English language support and so much more.
3. Check in with your family and tell them all about your exciting university experience
If you’re worried about missing your friends and family, that’s perfectly natural. However, having regular video calls or messages can keep you connected and help make the transition period so much easier.
It can be comforting just to call and talk about your day. You experience a lot of exciting things in the first week of university and those back home will love to hear all about it.
While it’s nice to stay connected to your friends back home, don’t let that stop you from meeting new ones on Newcastle University’s diverse campus.
4. Take time for self-care if you feel overwhelmed
You meet new people in an exciting place and learn interesting things. Some people might love the challenge and thrive from it but others might need some time to get used to the change which is perfectly normal.
Here are some ways to practice self-care:
- go and eat lunch with your new classmates on campus, or head out to explore the city and find a great place to dine
- start a diary and take note of everything you’re feeling - this is good to look back on and therapeutic to learn from
- take a walk outside. Newcastle has a 50-acre campus with vibrant green spaces to relax and wander in
- have fun with friends but make sure to get a decent night's sleep so you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go
Just remember, it’s likely there are students in the same situation as you. The UK attracts over 450,000 international students every year.
5. Embrace your culture and what makes you different
University is filled with students of different cultures and backgrounds. Embrace your own culture as it can be a great conversation starter. This can include the foods you eat, the languages you speak and much more.
The best way to do it is to just be yourself. Culture shock is completely normal and it’s important to know that there are people always available to help you. Some universities, like Newcastle, have student advisors and support on campus. You can always go to them for advice.
6. Allow personal development to happen and you’ll gain independence
University puts you on the journey to independence and you acquire valuable life skills along the way.
Going to university will allow you to learn how to budget, cook and to generally take care of yourself. Embracing this chance to develop as a person is highly beneficial and will be useful later on in life with your future career.
So, although it might seem challenging to do everything yourself, knowing that it will be worth it in the future should put you at ease.
7. Don’t be afraid to try something new
Don’t pass up on opportunities to try something different. You might discover something fun and exciting you’ve never experienced before.
Saying yes to activities within the first couple of weeks of university should give you a good understanding of the people you want to spend time with and the things you want to do.
Download our undergraduate guide to 2020 study
Choosing to study abroad is a major decision but we’re here to help. Make sure you have all of the information you need by downloading our guide to studying in the UK. It includes budgeting tips, how you can get around here, what life is like when you study in England and everything you could need to know about the types of university in the UK.
Get your free copy of the eBook now by clicking on the link below.
