Making the most of campus resources: what every student should know

The library: more than just a place to study

At the beginning of my degree, I honestly thought of the library as just a quiet place to revise before exams.

In my first year, I mainly went there when I had deadlines coming up. Over time, though, it became my main productivity space — especially during busy weeks.

Flexible study spaces for every type of work

What surprised me most was how many different study environments there are. Depending on what I’m working on, I can always find a space that fits.

For example, when I’m coding or revising for exams, I usually go to the silent zones. But when I’m working on group projects close to deadlines, the group rooms have been a lifesaver.

Some of my go-to uses include:

• Quiet zones for exam preparation
• Group rooms for project meetings
• Open spaces for casual revision sessions

This flexibility allows me to optimise how I work, depending on the task.

Access to books - on campus and beyond

One thing I didn’t expect to use so much was the book request system. If a specific book isn’t available on campus, I can usually request it, and it gets delivered.

This became especially useful during heavy coursework periods when I didn’t have time to rely only on online sources. Being able to take books home made studying much easier.

How books helped me in my AI modules

This was especially helpful in my Artificial Intelligence modules. I remember struggling at first with understanding clustering algorithms like K-means and hierarchical clustering.

Being able to use physical textbooks alongside lecture notes and papers helped me:

• Understand the theory properly
• Compare different approaches
• See real examples

Instead of memorising concepts, I actually understood how and why the algorithms worked, which made a big difference.

Using the Bloomberg Terminal for real-world exposure

The library also provides access to the Bloomberg Terminal.

The first time I used it, I found it quite overwhelming. There was so much data everywhere. But after spending some time exploring it, I realised how much of a powerful tool it is.

Using Bloomberg helped me see how financial theory applies in real markets. It felt good using the same tools professionals use, and it boosted my confidence and interest in finance.

Tech support that actually supports

One thing that really stands out is the willingness of the library and IT support staff to help whenever technical issues come up.

During a Security and Networks assignment, I struggled to correctly install and configure a virtual machine required for the coursework. A member of the support team walked me through the setup process, fixed compatibility issues, and made sure everything worked properly.

Without that support, I would have spent hours troubleshooting. Instead, I was able to focus on completing the assignment to a high standard. It reinforced the importance of asking for help early, saving time and reducing unnecessary stress.

The Careers Network: building your future

If the library supports your academic growth, the Careers Network Dubai supports your professional development.

In my first year, I booked a one-to-one session to review my CV and talk through the different career paths I was considering. I had a few options in mind, but I wasn’t fully sure which direction suited me.

They helped break down each path clearly. What the day-to-day looks like, the skills required, and the steps to get there. They also guided me on which courses, internships, and extracurriculars would align with each option.

That clarity made a big difference. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I left with a plan that genuinely matched my strengths and long-term goals.

Finding internships and part-time opportunities

Finding relevant work experience can feel overwhelming, especially as an undergraduate. The Careers Network Dubai simplifies this process by:

• Sharing internship and part-time opportunities
• Hosting employer sessions
• Connecting students with industry partners

Through these channels, I’ve discovered opportunities I wouldn’t have found on my own.

For example, insight sessions with BMW and Rolls-Royce AGMC gave me direct exposure to industry professionals and a clearer understanding of how these organisations operate.

Being able to ask questions and connect directly with employers made the transition from university to the job market feel far more real.

CV reviews that actually add value

One of the most practical services is CV feedback. Before, my CV was basic and generic. After multiple reviews, it became more targeted, results-focused, and aligned with employer expectations.

The advisors don’t just correct formatting. They helped me clearly express the skills I developed through my experiences. For example, they guided me on how to present my work with the Student Entrepreneurship Association, highlighting leadership, project management, and teamwork in a way that employers value.

It made my applications more impactful and competitive.

Interview preparation that builds confidence

Interviews can be intimidating, especially early on when you don’t have much experience. Before one of my first technical and competency interviews, I felt nervous and unsure about how to structure my answers or explain my skills.

After practising with the Careers Network through mock interviews and coaching sessions, I learned how to organise my responses, communicate technical concepts more clearly, and manage pressure. The feedback was practical and specific, and I improved quickly.

Over time, these sessions helped turn interviews from stressful challenges into more strategic two-way conversations.

Industry connections and networking opportunities

Another major advantage is access to employer networks. Career fairs, workshops, and guest talks bring professionals directly to campus.

One session that stood out to me was a PwC recruiter-led workshop focused on internship applications and assessment centres. They walked us through real examples of strong and weak applications and highlighted common mistakes students make.

Being able to ask direct questions made the advice feel practical and immediately useful, rather than theoretical.

These events create opportunities to:

• Learn about industry trends
• Ask direct questions to recruiters
• Build early professional relationships

This kind of exposure helps long before graduation.

Career support from day one

What makes the Careers Network Dubai so helpful is its long-term approach. Support doesn’t start in your final year—it begins from the moment you join.

From choosing modules to exploring career pathways, advisors help you align academic decisions with professional goals. This ensures that every year contributes to your broader career strategy.

For me, early guidance helped me identify gaps in my financial and commercial skill set. Through regular bi-weekly check-ins, the Careers team encouraged me to strengthen my financial acumen with courses like the FMVA and stay proactive in applying for business development and data analyst internships.

Final thoughts: turning resources into results

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that university resources only help if you actually use them. From using the library support to getting regular guidance from Careers, these services have played a direct role in my academic and professional growth.

My advice to new students is simple: engage early, ask questions, and be intentional. In my experience, the more you invest in these resources, the more confident, prepared, and competitive you become, both during university and beyond.