Starting university is an exciting time, but can also be an overwhelming one. A new home, new friends, and finally being on your own for the first time can be a lot to manage. While I am no expert, I did manage to (somewhat) successfully survive my first year of Uni, so here are some pieces of advice I wish I’d known before starting.
#1: The first few weeks might be a bit rocky… and that’s ok
There is an expectation that the first few weeks of Uni are the best weeks of your life, and for me that was definitely not the case. I was overwhelmed, homesick, and spent most of Freshers week crying on the phone to my parents. It is okay to feel unsure about Uni in the first few weeks – you are getting adjusted to a whole new world. However, once you begin to develop a routine and spend more time getting to know your new home, everything becomes a bit easier. It may take some time to get used to, but stick with it in those first few weeks and you will likely find yourself adjusting.
#2: The people you meet in Freshers might become your best friends, but they also might not
Freshers is a whirlwind; you are meeting what seems like hundreds of new people and forgetting their names as soon as you ask for them. Most of the time, you will find a group of people in the first few weeks and become fast friends, and sometimes you’ll get lucky and that group will become your ride or die. But sometimes, the people you meet in the first couple weeks might not be the people you are going to be friends with for the rest of Uni. Do not stress about it too much – there are so many people out there that you’ve yet to meet. Get involved with different societies, sports teams, and clubs. Between them, classes, and halls, you will meet some amazing friends.
#3: Take care of yourself
I quickly realized when I came to Uni that it is very easy to run yourself down. You are juggling classes, societies, a social life, and the basic skills to keep yourself alive (these are harder than you might think!). Most of the time, you do not realize you are as tired as you are until you finally crash. Take time to check in with yourself at least once every day to make sure you are taking care of yourself. Remember to drink water, stay home if you need to, and prioritize your health.
#4: Seasonal depression is very real
One thing I found out very quickly – especially in St Andrews – is that seasonal depression is very real. Once it hits November and the sun begins to set at 4pm, you will know what I mean. Some things I have found helpful are Vitamin D tablets and an artificial sun lamp that I use at my desk to try and mimic the normal daylight hours. While it may be a shock at first, you will start to get used to it and if anything, it’s something to bond over with your new friends!
#5: Do not be scared of your professors/tutors- they’re there to help you
In my first semester, I was terrified to go to my tutors for help. I was worried that I was bothering them or that they would somehow think less of me for asking questions, which is 100% not true! Your tutor’s job is to help you succeed, and most of the time they are happy to offer you help. So, make use of the office hours, and do not be afraid to ask questions!
#6: Join societies, especially ones you have never been involved with before
I know that this is a very generic piece of advice, but it is one that I have found to be very true. While your academic life at university is important, joining and participating in societies allows you to meet new people and pursue passions outside of your studies. Even, and perhaps especially in this bizarre, largely virtual semester, getting involved with a society, even remotely, can be a huge step towards finding your community. I would also suggest joining societies that you are not sure about. I had never even thought to join the Gilbert and Sullivan Society until my friend recommended it to me in second year, and I am so glad I did as it is one of my favorite experiences at Uni so far. So, do not be afraid to try something new, as most of the time you will be rewarded for it!
#7: Plan out your essays when you get the due date, it will save you a lot of stress
My first set of essays in first year caught me completely off guard when I realized I had one week to plan, research, and write three essays. While it was an important learning experience, it was one which I am not keen to repeat. Ever since then, I have made a point to plan out my essays well in advance. Once you get the due date for your coursework, plan ahead so that you have ample time to research, outline, and write your essays – unless you want to stay in the library until 2am for a week straight!
#8: Learn when to say yes
Sometimes at Uni, you will get opportunities to do things you would never think of otherwise. For me, it was co-hosting a radio show called “Wack Bastard” from 11pm-12am on Wednesday nights. Do not think too much about it, if something sounds fun, go for it.
#9: Check in on your friends
It is easy to forget, but everyone at Uni is in the same boat. Make a point to check in on your friends. If you take care of them, they will take care of you.
#10: Enjoy it
I am sure I’ll sound like a weathered old third year saying this, but honestly, just remember to enjoy it. First year goes by so incredibly fast that you’ll blink, and it’ll be May. Take time to appreciate where you are and how much you have grown – starting Uni is scary, but also incredibly exciting, so make sure to enjoy it!