This month, I begin my second year at university. I remember how daunting the beginning of the first year was, spending hours searching the internet for what I have now curated for you in this post. I hope you find this useful and wish all ‘freshers’ a fulfilling first year.

Before we start, here’s a little bit about myself so that you get an idea of my situation. I study psychology at one of the UK’s top universities. I have not moved out, although I do know many people who have made the decision to do so. For my personal situation, staying in my family home was the best option. 

1. Create connections
Although it can be intimidating, try to get to know as many people as possible. Remember, you’re all in a similar position. Don’t be shy to ask for contact details, because when things get a little overwhelming, you’ll have others to support you. Partying is not for everyone, and that’s okay. There may be pressure to attend this party, and that event, but if you don’t want to, you don’t have to. There are many other ways to make friends, usually unexpected.

2. Study from the start
I hope you chose a subject that you absolutely love, because if you’d like to make things a little easier for yourself, this is exactly what you need to do. I don’t mean disappearing behind books forever, but comb through your lecture notes and fill in any gaps now rather than later. The best time is straight after the lecture, when everything is still fresh. 

3. Do your research
In order to get the top grades, show that you have a wider understanding. Find scholarly articles on your own, check the news regarding your subject area, and push yourself to ask questions. Your work will naturally shine this way.

4. Writing > typing
The lecture hall will no doubt be filled with laptops and tablets. However, writing by hand allows for a deeper processing of information. It’s okay to be messy and throw in some diagrams. A type-up of notes afterwards would help you in the long-run as revision material.

5. Organisation is key
The year will hold many meetings, events and deadlines. It can be easy to lose track, therefore establish how you plan to be organised before it all begins. This may be a physical or digital diary, depending on your own preference. I like having access to both. And, as typical as pin boards may be, they are every student’s staple. I also find it useful to assign a folder for each module, and save all lecture powerpoint presentations if possible.