Settling Into Uni Life: How to Navigate Your First Semester
Coming to university is a big change, but it’s also a chance for you to start the next exciting chapter of your life. And while it might feel like a daunting experience, you should be proud of yourself for taking a giant leap into something new.
Your first year at university will be full of new experiences, challenges and, of course, fun adventures! Though, it’s normal to feel anxious about your first few weeks and months at university. Just remember to take a deep breath and tackle everything at your own pace.
To get you started, here’s some handy tips on how to navigate your first semester at Manchester Met.
A Guide to Settling in at University
1. Focus on the now
There’s lots to take in during your first few weeks at uni, so it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Everyone will be in the same boat and figuring out how they fit into uni life.
It is important to focus on enjoying the moment. You’ve worked hard to get here, so embrace everything that uni has to offer. Take small steps such as getting to know your new home, seeing what your timetable looks like, and establishing a new routine.
You may find parts of your first few weeks difficult, but as time goes on you will find your feet. Take the time to get to know your course mates or flatmates, as they will become a great source of comfort throughout your time here.
2. Keep your social life going beyond fresher’s week
Fresher’s week can be a great way to kick-start your social life at uni. However, it’s not your only opportunity to meet people and try new activities outside of your lectures.
Make the most of the different societies and clubs on offer. From anime and creative writing to a film society and running club – there’s something for everyone. It’s a great way to meet people who share your interests. They also run different events and meet-ups throughout the first semester and beyond.
There are also events going on throughout the year at The Union. So, make sure you keep an eye out on their website and check your student emails for the latest events on campus and in Manchester.
3. Attend all your lectures and tutorials
You’ll want to enjoy the social side of university, but it’s also important to stay on top of your studies.
The workload at university is different from college. There’s less structure and more focus on independent study, which can sometimes be a shock to the system. This is why attending all your lectures is important.
Not only do lectures provide you with the chance to work more closely with your course mates, but they also give you a better understanding of your subject than just reading notes online. You’ll also find that your lecturers will give you lots of useful hints and advice on how to succeed in your assignments.
4. Learn the best ways to manage your time
Your first semester at uni is all about trying to find the right balance. This includes how to juggle your workload with having a social life and any other commitments.
This will look different for everyone, but there are things that everyone can do to start the academic year off on the right foot. Start with taking note of when your lectures are and what key deadlines you have coming up. This will help you to plan what time you have to complete your assignments, go out with your friends, and balance part-time work or family commitments.
Not sure where to start? Check out our advice on the best time management apps.
5. Keep in contact with home
You might think that keeping in touch with home might make you miss it more, but in fact it can do you the world of good.
Having conversations with your loved ones about what you are up to and how you are feeling, can make all the difference. These are the people who know you best and can help you work through any challenges you are facing. They’re also there to celebrate with you and share in any good news.
A call or a text is a good start, but why not arrange a time for them to come and visit? They will get a better understanding of your life at uni if they get to see it first hand and experience it with you.
6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or anxious at any point, just know that this is completely normal. Everyone takes their own time to settle into university and find their place, so don’t feel the pressure to compare yourself to how your peers are doing.
There are many people at the University who are here to support you. A good place to start is to reach out to your classmates, lecturers, or personal tutor.
We also offer the support of trained counsellors and advisors, both in person and online. From our student support line to wellbeing workshops, check out four ways to access wellbeing support at uni.
