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It can be a really scary experience, moving away from home for the first time, and it doesn’t come without its challenges. However, that doesn’t mean you should feel scared or anxious. Instead, take control and find ways to help yourself settle in quicker. Here are some ideas…
Give Yourself Time to Adjust
One of the most important things to remember is that settling in doesn't happen overnight. While some students seem to adapt instantly, many people take weeks or even months to feel fully comfortable in their new surroundings.
It's completely normal to experience a mix of emotions during your first few weeks. Excitement, anxiety, homesickness, confidence, and uncertainty can all exist at the same time.
Try not to compare your experience to what you see on social media. The reality is that most students are navigating the same challenges behind the scenes.
Get involved
Don’t be afraid to be yourself, and make sure you take advantage of opportunities that come your way and feel right for you. Meeting new people is a fun experience and as you’re developing and finding yourself and who you are, so is everyone around you.
Spend some time with your new flatmates, go out for a coffee with the people in your lecture, or just enjoy spending time with the new friends around you.
Establish a Routine
University life often comes with more freedom than you've experienced before. While that independence can be exciting, establishing a routine can help provide structure and stability.
Try to:
- Attend lectures regularly
- Set aside dedicated study time
- Create a consistent sleep schedule
- Plan meals and food shopping
- Make time for social activities and hobbies
A balanced routine can help reduce stress and make day-to-day life feel more manageable.
Budget your money
It’s easy to get carried away when student loans come in, but make sure you’re sensible and budget properly. The last thing you want is to end up running out of money midway through the term, as that can cause a lot of stress.
We have some great tips for managing your money on our blog. From finding the latest deals and offers, to learning how to save money on your food shop.
Take care of yourself
And we don’t just mean your physical health. Your mental health is just as important, and it’s ok to reach out if you need some support. Make sure you know who to turn to and when to do so.
As well as mentally, you need to make sure you’re eating properly, sleeping enough and getting regular fresh air and exercise.
Don’t forget to make sure you’re registered with your local GP. You’ll feel less stressed once these things are taken care of and you have a plan, just incase you need it.
You can find more guidance around support on our blog.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help
University is a learning experience in every sense of the word, and nobody expects you to have everything figured out.
If you're struggling academically, socially, financially, or emotionally, support is available.
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Reaching out early can often prevent small challenges from becoming bigger concerns.
If you would like to speak to someone, please visit reception and our team are always on hand to support you.
Make it your home away from home
Make sure your room feels cozy and comforting. You’re in a new place, so the best thing to do is to make it feel more familiar. Make sure you bring things from home, such as pictures, a blanket, or objects that remind you of a happy time or place.
It’ll help you to feel less home sick, if that day ever comes. Maybe get your family and friends to help you pick items from home, and then you’ll think of them when you see the items.
Embrace New Experiences
University is about more than earning a degree. It's a chance to explore new interests, meet people from different backgrounds, and grow as an individual.
You might discover a new hobby, join a society you never expected to enjoy, or develop skills that shape your future career. Being open to opportunities can make your university experience richer and more rewarding.
Some of the best memories often come from stepping outside your comfort zone.
Be Kind to Yourself
It's easy to feel pressure to have the "perfect" university experience, but there is no right way to do university.
Some students thrive socially, while others prefer smaller friendship groups. Some settle in quickly, while others take a little longer. Both experiences are completely normal.
Focus on your own journey and celebrate the small wins, whether that's attending your first lecture, cooking a meal independently, joining a society, or making a new friend.
Enjoy being a fresher!
You’re only at university for a short time, enjoy it! However that looks for you.
If you like to party, then make sure you know which events you’d like to go to and who you’re going with. (But make sure you have a plan to get home too!)
Not a big drinker? Then make sure you join the right societies and get involved in events. There will be lost of day events to get involved in, and lots of opportunity to make new friends.