Transitioning from Sixth Form to University: the independence leap

The biggest change when transitioning to university learning is the increase in the level of independence. While at sixth form or college, you faced consequences for not being present or completing work, at university, this is only reflected in your own grades and outcomes. The expectation is that you will be proactive, and meet the requirements of your degree due to your own motivation. The best way to manage the increase in independent study and greater expectations is to plan your time accordingly. It is easy to put something off until the last minute when there is no one pressuring you not to, so it is important to be honest with yourself, and schedule in time when you plan to do the work.

Being a fresher at university may be daunting, but it should also be very exciting! I found that the best way to adapt to campus life was to be familiar with where the buildings my classes were in were before the day that I had to go there. To do this, I went for walks around campus with my new flatmates, which also served as a great way of getting to know them better. It is also great to go to the welcome week events to meet people on your course, and to find out about societies and sports teams that you can join. Most societies do free taster sessions at the beginning of the year, and these are a brilliant way to meet people with similar interests to you, and to find out which societies you want to be a part of throughout your time at university.

There is also a plethora of ways to manage your worries if it is your first time living away from home. I found that it was useful for me to plan the meals that I wanted to eat ahead of time so that I remembered everything I needed when shopping, set a day when I would do my laundry, and made sure to call home so my parents knew I was okay!

The most important thing to remember is to be yourself, it is the best way to meet new friends and enjoy your time at university!