Starting university is a big change. Even after Welcome Week, you might still be finding your way around, getting used to your timetable, meeting new people and working out where everything is.
If you’re still settling in, don’t worry. You don’t need to have everything figured out straight away. Everyone finds their feet at a different pace, and it can take a little while for university life to start feeling familiar.
Take your time, try things out and give yourself space to work out what works for you.
Find Your Routine
One of the biggest changes at university can be getting used to having more control over your time.
Have a look at your timetable and think about when you want to study, eat, exercise, socialise and have some downtime. Your routine doesn’t need to be perfect. Having a rough idea of how you want your week to look can simply make things feel a little easier.
And don’t forget to give yourself time to relax. University isn’t all lectures, deadlines and studying.
Get to Know Campus
You might have explored campus during Welcome, but once your lectures and seminars start, you’ll probably come across lots of building and room codes.
They might look a little confusing at first, but once you know how they work, finding your way around becomes much easier.
How do room codes work?
Room names start with letters that tell you which building you need to find. The numbers then tell you which floor and room you’re looking for.
Floor 4 is the main entrance level. Go down for Floors 1–3 and up for Floors 5 and above.
Room numbers are written as the building code, followed by a slash and the room number.
BL1/14 SJ1/01For example, BL1/14 means Bronte Lecture Theatre, Floor 1, Room 14.
Key Campus Buildings
BH
Barbara Hepworth
BL
Bronte Lecture Theatre
CS
Charles Sikes
HA
Haslett
JPE / JPW / JPS
Joseph Priestley
OA
Oastler
If you’re not sure where you’re going, give yourself a few extra minutes to find your room and don’t be afraid to ask someone for directions. You’ll soon get used to the campus and start recognising the building codes without thinking about it.
Keep Meeting People
You don’t have to make your best friends in your first week.
University is a great opportunity to meet people through your course, societies, sports clubs, events, volunteering and part-time work. Keep getting involved in things that interest you, even if you’re going on your own.
That’s completely normal. You’re probably not the only one.
It can sometimes look like everyone else has already made loads of friends, but plenty of students are still finding their feet too. Friendships can take time, so don’t put pressure on yourself to find your group straight away.
Get to Know Your Course
As your course gets underway, you’ll start to get a better idea of what your workload looks like.
Keep track of deadlines and make a note of important dates. If you’re unsure about an assignment, lecture or something you’ve been asked to do, ask for help rather than worrying about it on your own.
Need a bit of help?
Your tutors and University support services are there to help you. The Students’ Union can also provide advice, support and guidance throughout your time at university.
You don’t need to wait until something becomes a big problem before asking for help.
Look After Your Money
The first few weeks at university can be expensive. Between food, nights out, course materials and all the little things you need for your new routine, it can be easy to spend more than you planned.
Now is a good time to work out what you can afford each week and keep an eye on your spending.
Small ways to make your money go further:
- Plan your food shop before you go.
- Make the most of student discounts.
- Cook with your housemates where you can.
- Take lunch with you instead of buying it every day.
- Keep track of your regular spending.
- Look out for free or low-cost events on campus.
Make Your Space Feel Like Home
Whether you’re living in halls, a shared house or commuting to university, having somewhere you can relax can make a big difference.
You don’t need to spend loads of money decorating. A few photos, some bedding you like, your favourite snacks or simply keeping your space tidy can help make it feel more comfortable.
If you’re living with other people, take some time to get to know your housemates too. You don’t have to become best friends, but having a good relationship can make shared living much easier.
Don’t Compare Your Experience
It can be easy to look around and feel like everyone else is having the perfect university experience.
You might see people constantly going out, making loads of friends or seeming completely confident about their course. Remember that social media only shows a small part of someone’s life.
Everyone settles into university differently. Some people feel at home straight away, while others take weeks or months to find their routine.
Take things at your own pace and focus on what makes your university experience work for you.
Know Where to Get Support
If something isn’t going well, you don’t have to deal with it on your own.
Whether you’re struggling with your studies, accommodation, money, friendships or simply feeling a bit overwhelmed, there are people who can help.
The Students’ Union is here to support you throughout your time at university. If you’re not sure where to start, get in touch and we can help point you in the right direction.
You’re not expected to know everything
University is a learning experience in more ways than one. It’s okay to ask questions, make mistakes, change your mind and take some time to work things out.
Asking for help is part of settling in too.
Give Yourself Time
Settling into university doesn’t happen overnight.
Give yourself time to adjust, try new things and work out what works for you. You don’t need to have your whole university experience planned out, and you don’t need to feel completely settled straight away.
Take it one week at a time, look after yourself and make the most of the opportunities that feel right for you.
It’s okay if it takes a little while to feel at home.
Ready to Settle In?
Why not make this week about:
- Finding the rooms you’ll be using regularly.
- Getting to know someone new on your course.
- Trying a society, club or SU event.
- Getting your weekly budget sorted.
- Finding a study space you like.
- Taking some time for yourself.
- Finding out where to go if you need support.
There’s plenty of time to make university your own. Whether you’re still learning your way around campus, getting to know your course or working out where you fit in, remember that everyone starts somewhere.
We hope you’re starting to feel more settled and that you have a great year ahead.
We’re Here for You
The Students’ Union is here throughout your university journey, whether you need advice, want to get involved or simply want to find out what’s happening on campus.
Take your time. Get involved. Ask for help when you need it.
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