Reflecting on my first year of university, tips, lessons and insights I wish I’d known from the start.

It’s okay to feel lost at first

Adjusting to university life takes time. In my first few weeks, I felt overwhelmed by everything, from navigating campus to understanding my course expectations. I looked around and assumed everyone else had settled in right away, but the reality of it was that most students felt unsure at first. What helped was reaching out, asking course mates questions, talking to my personal tutor, and attending welcome sessions. University is a learning curve, both academically and personally. Reminding yourself that it’s normal to feel out of place early on can ease the pressure and help you adjust at your own pace.

Get involved early

One of my biggest regrets is that I waited too long to get involved in campus life. I was hesitant at first, worried I wouldn’t fit in or that I was too busy, but joining a society or attending events isn’t just about filling time. It’s about building a network and making the most of independent experience. Whether it’s fresher’s week, attending quiz nights at Waterside Bar, or joining a sports team, these moments help you meet like-minded individuals and feel part of the community. The earlier you put yourself out there, the quicker the university starts to feel like home.

Build a routine

Coming from a structured school timetable, I struggled at first with the freedom that university life gave me. With fewer contact hours and more independent study, it’s easy to fall into bad habits. Sleeping in, rushing assignments or missing meals. What helped me was setting a simple, flexible routine that included the gym, lectures, rest and socialising. Even planning out small things like grocery shopping or laundry makes the weeks more manageable. A routine not only keeps you organised but also helps maintain a healthy balance, making sure your well-being and studies come first.

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Alex Boden

Alex is a third-year student pursuing a degree in esports. In their spare time, Alex has a passion for photography and capturing moments that tell a story.