How to start university on the right foot

Starting university is a big change - it can feel like a step up from college and high school. Living away from home for the first time can feel quite daunting, along with the pressure of meeting new friends and tackling a new way of learning. No need to worry - we’re here to give you our top tips for starting university on the right foot. Let’s break it down…

Explore your campus and local city

Living away from home can be intimidating. In the first few days, you’ll have fewer commitments and classes scheduled. Take advantage of your free time and get to know your campus. Invite your flatmates on a walk around campus and get familiar with the grounds. Find out where your classes will be in advance so you don’t get lost on your first day. Go on a shopping trip or bar crawl in your local town centre. Getting to know your local area will boost your confidence and help your university feel like a home away from home.

Take control of your education from the get-go

University differs from high school and college in many ways, but a key difference is how you are taught and expected to learn. There are no longer teachers planning out revision sessions for you, or chasing you up to do your homework on time. Your learning becomes your responsibility - and yours alone.

You’re likely to have fewer contact hours and face to face classes - but that doesn’t mean the learning stops there. You’ll be expected to study in your own time, for both future exams and coursework. It’s entirely up to you what, when and where you study. Get yourself into a routine early - make sure you have the necessary books and stationery, and find out what works best for you. Maybe you’re a night owl and prefer working from home late at night, or maybe you’ll prefer to study with friends in the library between lectures. Either way - the earlier you can find your feet and establish your own studying routine, the better.

Put yourself out there

University isn’t just about education. It’s about the experiences you have and the friends you make throughout your course. Take advantage of freshers week - get to know your flatmates, coursemates and neighbouring flats and sign up for societies. In the first year, everybody is in the same boat and eager to make friends. Trying new hobbies and meeting new people is a great way to find your feet at university and make memories that you’ll treasure forever.

Get to know your department

Getting to know your subject department is a great way to make meaningful connections in your chosen field. Having a good relationship with your lecturers also means you’ll feel more comfortable asking for help if you’re struggling with a particular piece of work, or need advice in future. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of your lecturer’s office hours, or to take on volunteer or work opportunities within your department. It’s a wonderful way to feel at home within your subject department.

Those are our top four tips for starting university on the right foot. It’s good to be prepared! For anyone starting university in 2021, we wish you the best of luck! We hope you have a wonderful university experience and make some amazing memories.

About HYBR

HYBR is a Bristol-based student accommodation platform that cares. HYBR connects students directly to private landlords and supports tenants throughout their rental journey.

HYBR was founded by two university students, keen to disrupt an outdated and inefficient rental system that has taken advantage of students for countless years.

Get in touch with their customer service team), let them know your budget, how many people you want to live with and your preferred location and they will send you a list of options to review based on your criteria. The HYBR team will support you throughout the process.