5 Things you should do before starting University

University is a new and exciting chapter but can be stressful if you go in unprepared. You are currently packing your essentials for your new accommodation, reading more about your selected course and trying to research all the fun things to do around your university campus. Here is some guidance on things you may not have thought you needed before you started university.

Learn how to reference

This skill you may not have used in great depth during your education will be an essential skill throughout your time at university. University may require you to reference in a specific way, and you must learn the correct way to reference your work. A great working practice is to reference your work as you go rather than leaving it to the end. It will prevent you from forgetting to reference a source. It may be highly stressful to find all your missing references after completing your assignments.

Spend your money wisely

Many students receive financial support to fund their studies, whether it’s from parents, guardians or student loan companies. Be mindful of your expenses and stick to a budget. Student life can be more expensive than people realise, and it’s best to budget your money well, so you can have all your necessities covered, allowing you to have one less thing to worry about.

Freshers Flu is not a myth – Take your health seriously!

The notorious ‘Freshers Flu’ will make you question the strength of your immune system. With Covid-19 still present, you must get any necessary immunisations to prevent and are ready with cold and flu medication to get you through fresher’s flu season. International students living in the UK can access the Covid-19 vaccine, just as they are currently able to access healthcare. Make sure you find a local General Practitioner (GP) so they can book your vaccinations for you.

Establish a good work-life balance.

A good work-life balance is greatly overlooked, and you will encounter people during your time at university who do not have this. Your new course workload may be overwhelming as you may have to manage many different expectations and deadlines. You may also want to get fully immersed into your new student lifestyle, attending all the student nights out. No one expects students to work and study daily with no downtime; you need to allow enough time to study and rest.

Create connections!

Networking is essential as a student. It can help you get an excellent final grade and significantly impact the job opportunities you may be offered during and after university—any chance you may get during your time at university to connect with professionals, use it to your advantage. You never know when that connection might be helpful. Make sure you present yourself with a professional and positive first impression.

Ref:

Before you go to university – The Uni Guide

https://www.protect-ed.org/single-post/2017/08/07/Student-Blogs-Things-I-wish-Id-known-before-starting-university