Preparing to study at UON
It isn’t as scary as I thought it would be
Everyone is in the same boat as you, starting a new chapter. You are not alone in this situation.
How much support there actually is
You not only have your coursemates, but also lecturers, counsellors, academic advisors, financial guidance, the student union, and so many more support teams.
Just throw yourself into the experience
When coming to university, take all of the chances and opportunities you are given. Whether that’s going on a trip, joining a society (maybe even making one), or just getting all you can from your course.
You don’t miss out by living at home
I live at home and commute every day, and I still get the whole university experience. Socialising with friends, going out, the chance to join societies. All those classic university experiences just with the comfort of staying in your home.
There is loads of public transport for the commute
Northampton is great for public transport. There’s buses, trains and taxis. There are also car parks, which you can apply to park in, if you want to drive in yourself. Plenty of choices for those who have a commute ahead of them.
You’ll get a personal tutor who is there for a meeting whenever you need
I have one of my lecturers as my personal tutor. With them, I have regular meetings each semester and can choose to have extra ones should I feel the need. They are there to support you through your time at university and give you advice and help.
Mistakes will be made but that is ok
Things will happen that you didn’t expect or something won’t go according to plan, as an overthinker I sometimes struggle with this. But it is just part of life. You need to embrace the mistakes and learn from them, that is the most important thing.
Don’t be a perfectionist
If you spend all your time trying to make everything completely perfect, nothing will get done and there will be no room for improvement. All you need to do is work hard and try your best.
There is mental health support for those who need it
Not only is there the support of your classmates and your lecturers, but the university also offers a counselling service. I have used this and it really helped me through a rather difficult time.
It is 100% worth it
As someone who waited a few years to go to university,
I can easily say it has been one of the best experiences I have had so far.
The friends I have made, the new things I have learnt and some of the best memories I’ll never forget.
Find out more about student life at UON by visiting one of our Open Days.
