Five tips for Welcome Week

Regardless of if you are just starting or returning to university, it can be an overwhelming experience with a mixture of emotions. University comes with s0 many amazing opportunities that sometimes it can be difficult to know where to start or what to prioritise.

It's crucial to remember that as with anything in life there may be times where you experience some 'lows' at university, but that is totally okay as there are so many things that you can do to prepare for those moments and make university feel slightly less overwhelming.

I've put together my top five tips for making the most of university:

1. Follow your passions!

Whether this is a passion to try something you haven't before such as a new hobby or continuing an old one, a passion for a particular area in your degree, or simply a passion for meeting new people, use this to direct your journey at university.

If you have a passion for what you are doing it is going to make your university experience a whole lot more enjoyable, don't fall in the trap of just following what others are doing because that is their passion.

Also, following your own passions creates great opportunities for meeting new people! Use the opportunity to find new passions too, try out taster sessions for societies, different optional modules etc, and if you don't enjoy it there are always ways to try something else.

2. Get out of your comfort zone and don't be afraid to put yourself out there!

University is one of the best opportunities you can get to better yourself and experience new things.

For example, don't be afraid to put yourself up for a role of responsibility such as becoming a student ambassador, or try some public speaking. These are great opportunities to strengthen your skill set, and university offers a great environment to be supported in stretching yourself.

3. Take advantage of resources at university

I believe taking advantage of the expertise of university staff is one of the most beneficial actions you can do.

Your university lecturers are there to help whether that is for guidance on lecture content, recommendations of extra reading, or general tips for the field of psychology- take advantage of this.

If you find yourself particularly interested in a lecturer's area of research too, don't be afraid to reach out to them to find out more.

Being proactive in this way can often lead to further opportunities and can help you build good rapport with the lecturers.

Also, make full use of the careers, financial guidance, and support services at university, this is a great way to equip yourself for life after university too.

4. Prepare for the tough times

University can be tough at times and that's okay, but you can help make those tough times a little less difficult through preparation.

Consider what makes you feel better when you are struggling and form a self- care package.

This could consist of the necessities such as medicine but also things such as your favourite films, food, or pictures for example.

5. Set some intentions or goals for the next year

University can be an overwhelming place with hundreds of exciting opportunities to get involved with. It can be difficult to know where to start.

A great way to guide your experience is setting some simple goals or intentions for the year. This could be as simple as finding a community of people or it could be something for specific.

Remember, it's okay if those intentions change throughout the year (and they inevitably will) they are just a starting point.