WHAT TO EXPECT IN FIRST YEAR | SEPTEMBER 2019
I've just started my second year, so I thought it would be wise of me to make a list for all those expectant freshers that are entering University life. The first thing I would say is to be organised. Even though, for most people first year doesn't count you still need to be able to learn and obtain the skills, whether it be referencing, critical thinking or writing. Whatever your course may be, there will be something that you have to learn and master. Don't worry though, you'll have plenty of support from your tutors. Just remember that you need to ask for help; you're paying for your education, so try and get everything out of it.
If you have readings set each week, try and get them done in good time. You don't want to be rushing around the night before trying to understand what 'neoliberalism' is for example. If you don't understand something, research, ask questions etc.
Make sure you organise your notes, because when it comes to revising you don't want your notes all over the place. You'll thank your past self by organising your notes whilst you are doing it. If you don't particularly concentrate in lectures, read back on your lecture notes and slides. A lot of my lectures made me fall asleep sometimes, I think it is the setting of being talked at for two hours. Anyhow, lectures are important because that's where you learn most of your learning and knowledge.
Lectures aren't always the most comfortable places to ask questions in, so make sure if you have questions, you email your tutor.
Something I did in first year was print off all my modules timetables. This was probably a step too far, but I just wanted to be organised. As you can tell I like to be very organised. But, this way you can know what you need to do for what time etc. Sometimes lecture schedules can change, but it's always good to have your timetable on your wall so you can see what your timetable is, right in front of you.
Another vital feature, which I struggle to do is timetable some chill out time. Students very often get burnt out, which I did frequently last year because I tried to everything, whilst working a part time job. But, I would definitely reserve an evening, or a day if you have time to, to just relax. It's so important that you let your brain rest, because it's on the go all the time. But most importantly, enjoy first year. Someone recently told me to enjoy the journey of University, and try not to stress over the assignments and what you're going to do afterwards. This is easier said than done, I know because it feels like everyone is questioning you what you are going to do after. But it's your degree, so get out of it what you want.
Rose x
If you have readings set each week, try and get them done in good time. You don't want to be rushing around the night before trying to understand what 'neoliberalism' is for example. If you don't understand something, research, ask questions etc.
Make sure you organise your notes, because when it comes to revising you don't want your notes all over the place. You'll thank your past self by organising your notes whilst you are doing it. If you don't particularly concentrate in lectures, read back on your lecture notes and slides. A lot of my lectures made me fall asleep sometimes, I think it is the setting of being talked at for two hours. Anyhow, lectures are important because that's where you learn most of your learning and knowledge.
Lectures aren't always the most comfortable places to ask questions in, so make sure if you have questions, you email your tutor.
Something I did in first year was print off all my modules timetables. This was probably a step too far, but I just wanted to be organised. As you can tell I like to be very organised. But, this way you can know what you need to do for what time etc. Sometimes lecture schedules can change, but it's always good to have your timetable on your wall so you can see what your timetable is, right in front of you.
Another vital feature, which I struggle to do is timetable some chill out time. Students very often get burnt out, which I did frequently last year because I tried to everything, whilst working a part time job. But, I would definitely reserve an evening, or a day if you have time to, to just relax. It's so important that you let your brain rest, because it's on the go all the time. But most importantly, enjoy first year. Someone recently told me to enjoy the journey of University, and try not to stress over the assignments and what you're going to do afterwards. This is easier said than done, I know because it feels like everyone is questioning you what you are going to do after. But it's your degree, so get out of it what you want.
Rose x
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