Back to uni survival kit
After months of bliss, university holidays are coming to an
end as students prepare for semester one. For thousands of school leavers, this
will mark their introduction to the higher education system, which can be
particularly challenging for those who have had to relocate away from home.
There are numerous resources available for students to
access both on campus and online, especially during the weeks leading up to the
first semester. From a personal perspective, it’s important to prepare yourself
to transition back into a regular routine.
Make a study schedule
It isn’t the most exciting prospect in the world, but it is
extremely useful to have a study plan. This way, you can avoid getting to week
three and realising you’ve got four assignments you haven’t started, due within
48 hours.
Stock up on books and stationery
The last thing you want is to turn up to class and have no
idea what is going on because you don’t have the relevant textbook. Go through
your booklist a week or two in advance, investigate whether you can borrow any
through the library, and stock up on pens, exercise books and any other stationery.
Sort out the little things
It’s good to be prepared so you don’t encounter any annoying
surprises. Do you drive to uni, or take public transport? Do you have to pay
for parking? Do any of your classes clash with others, and do you need to
adjust your schedule to fit in with work and other external responsibilities?
These are all better taken care of ahead of time.
Be ready to deal with stress
No matter how well you do all the above, it’s inevitable
that you will experience stress during the semester. Try and adopt a positive
way of dealing with stress, whether it’s exercising, reading or spending time
with friends. This includes trying new things – you might find that mediation
or yoga does you the world of good.
Useful Links:
Taking
care of yourself over the uni break
Five
podcasts every university student should be listening to
