TOP 3 TIPS for Success Starting your First Year of University.

Settling into university is a huge step - new people, routines, and expectations. Here are three ways to not only survive but thrive.

1. Put Yourself Out There

I know, I know - easier said than done. But here's the thing: everyone else is just as nervous as you are. Chat to people in your accommodation, join societies that sound even remotely interesting, try a sport you've never done before.

Wear that metaphorical confidence mask if you need to – most people can't tell the difference between genuine confidence and well-executed fake-it-till-you-make-it energy.

Remember, you're not looking for 50 best friends. You're looking for YOUR people – the ones who get your humour, share your interests, or just make you feel comfortable being yourself. Quality over quantity always wins. Some connections will be lifelong friendships, others might just be friendly faces in lectures, and that's perfectly fine.

Not everyone will click with you, and that's not a reflection of your worth - it's just compatibility. With thousands of students around, your people are definitely out there.

2. Don’t Panic

That overwhelming feeling? The homesickness that hits at random moments? It’s completely normal, we’ve all been there.

It's okay to question whether you've made the right choice, to miss home-cooked meals, or to feel lost navigating campus (it took me half the year to figure out where all my lectures were without using a map!). Building new routines and finding your rhythm takes time – give yourself at least a month before making any major judgments.

Break everything down into manageable chunks. Instead of thinking "I need to figure out my entire university experience," focus on "what do I need to do today?" Planning helps massively here – even simple to-do lists can give you back some sense of control when everything feels chaotic.

If the overwhelm gets too much, remember that universities have support systems – counsellors, peer mentors, welfare officers – specifically because they know this transition is tough. Using them isn't admitting defeat; it's being smart about your wellbeing.

3. Build in Time for Fun

University isn't just about cramming for exams and surviving on instant noodles. You're supposed to actually enjoy the experience.

Fun doesn't have to mean clubbing until 3am if that's not your thing. Maybe it's joining a sports society, having coffee dates with new friends, gaming sessions in your room, or just taking solo walks while listening to podcasts. The beauty of university is there are so many different ways to have fun - find what genuinely makes YOU happy.

Schedule this fun time like you would any other commitment. When everything gets hectic (and it will), having protected time for activities you love will keep you sane and energised for everything else.

Solo fun is just as important as social fun. Taking time for yourself isn't antisocial - it's necessary for recharging and staying grounded in all the newness.

Madeleine x