The Do’s and Don’ts of Your First Semester at University

Starting university is an exciting time. You finally get to start studying a course you want to learn about and take this next step in your life. You also might be moving to a new city with lots of new things to discover and people to meet. But, we know starting university can also be slightly daunting, so read our crucial top tips for starting university below. 

Do Get Involved

There’s more to uni life than just studying, and there’s no better way to make friends than getting involved with all the extras. Of course in your first semester you’ve got freshers to enjoy, a week of great nights out and freshers fairs to learn about everything you need to know and meet fellow students. Also, get involved with some societies; if you’re a fanatic sports player, find your sport and sign up to the team, or look for alternatives such as music groups, debating societies, country-inspired ones, eco groups, course-specific groups and so much more.

Don’t Skip Lectures

We’ve heard it all: “it’s only first year”, “first year doesn’t count”. But that’s not all strictly true. For many courses, the first year does count towards the final grade and what you’re learning in this first year will help you down the line. So go out and enjoy yourself, but set the alarm for those 9am lectures also. 

Do Get to Know the Library

Maybe it’s somewhere you’ve never been or somewhere you’re sure is full of brain boxes and mean librarians, but you couldn’t be more wrong. At times the library will become a second home to you throughout your university life, we guarantee at least once you’ll find yourself there until the early hours trying to meet a deadline. Get to know it early, find the books you need, which areas you like, where the computers are and of course the quiet zones for when you really need to get your head down. 

Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions

If you have a question, ask it! Everyone’s in the same shoes as you being completely new to university life so the chances are somebody else is thinking it too. Whether it’s about the lecture, your student accommodation or the university in general, don’t be afraid to ask. Your lecturers, university staff and those working at your accommodation will all be super friendly and helpful and are there to help you adjust to university life, we guarantee they will be more than happy to help. 

Do Stay with true student

We’re maybe a little bit biased on this one, but we do know true student accommodation provides an extra level of luxury. We also have a range of social spaces for you to use such as our Festival Zone, Picture House, Gyms, BBQ facilities and more! At true student, we also host a trueLife events programme where you can join in social events such as day trips out, live cooking sessions and so much more, as well as gain support and advice throughout your university journey. 

Don’t Forget to Budget

If this is the first time you’ve lived away from home, the idea of budgeting can be somewhat daunting. We recommend sitting down with a parent before you start and planning your finances. This way you know how much you have to spend on bills, how much to budget on the food shop and what’s left to go out and enjoy yourself with. Budgeting will also allow you to reduce stress which is always a bonus! If you prefer there are loads of free budgeting resources in the app store. 

Finally, Do Enjoy Yourself

Yes, you’re at university to study and ultimately come out with a degree at the end of it, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun along the way. You’ll likely make lifelong friends along the way and memories that will last a lifetime, so settle down and enjoy your journey at university. 

Whilst these do’s and don’ts are our top tips for starting university, we’re sure you’ll find your way and make your own rules along the way.