The University Experience: What Students Want To Know

University is a significant life experience, and it's natural for students to have questions about what to expect. Students want to know about the social aspects of university life, such as parties, societies, and sports teams, as well as practical considerations like accommodation, meal planning, and commuting. They may also be curious about the workload and teaching style, preferring flexible and practical teaching that focuses on real-world applications rather than excessive lecturing. Students may also want to know about job opportunities and how their degree will impact their future careers. With varying motivations for enrolling, students have diverse needs and expectations from their university experience, and it's essential for educational institutions to understand these to effectively support their students.

Social life and making friends

University is a time of exploration and self-discovery, and a large part of that is the social aspect. Making friends and building a social life is an important part of the university experience, and it's natural to want to know what to expect and how to make the most of it.

The first step is recognizing that everyone is in the same boat. Most students are leaving home, starting anew, and eager to make friends. This shared experience is a great foundation for connecting with others. It's important to be open-minded and embrace diversity. University is a melting pot of different backgrounds, interests, and personalities, so be curious, inclusive, and embrace the opportunity to broaden your horizons.

Getting involved in extracurricular activities is a great way to meet people with similar interests. Join clubs and societies, whether it's a sports team, a book club, a drama society, or a volunteer group. These shared activities provide a natural context for conversation and friendship. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. University is a time for self-discovery, so embrace new experiences and you might just find your new passion, or at the very least, meet some great people along the way.

Your course mates are also a great source of friendship. The people you study with will understand the unique challenges and experiences of your degree, so don't be afraid to strike up conversations, ask questions, and suggest study groups. These shared experiences can form strong bonds and often lead to lifelong friendships.

Finally, remember that it's okay to take your time and that quality is more important than quantity. Everyone settles in at a different pace, so don't feel pressured to rush into things. Be yourself, seek out genuine connections, and you'll naturally attract like-minded people. University is a time to build meaningful relationships, so focus on finding friends who enrich your life and share your values.

Sports teams and societies

Joining a sports team or society at university can have a positive impact on your mental health and overall university experience. Societies and sports teams provide an escape from the pressures of academic life, a chance to meet new people, and an opportunity to develop valuable skills that will benefit your future career.

Universities offer a diverse range of sports teams and societies, from recreational to competitive, covering a wide variety of interests and activities. Whether you want to continue playing a sport you already love or try something new, there is something for everyone. Competitive sports teams at universities often participate in local leagues and competitions, such as the British Universities & Colleges Sports (BUCS) in the UK, or the Scottish Student Sport (SSS) competitions in Scotland, which can lead to European or international competitions. These teams typically require a greater level of commitment and may involve membership or participation fees.

If you're looking for a more casual option, intramural leagues or social and recreational sports are a great choice. These provide an opportunity for regular but relatively casual competition without the need for serious training. Universities often offer a range of health and wellbeing or lifestyle activities as well, such as yoga or running clubs, which can help you stay active and improve your physical and mental health.

Being part of a sports team or society can also enhance your employability. It demonstrates to future employers your ability to manage your time effectively and balance different commitments. Additionally, participating in a society related to your career interests, such as an environmental society for those passionate about sustainability, showcases your dedication to your field.

Joining a sports team or society is a great way to meet like-minded individuals and build a support network during your time at university. Don't be afraid to take a leap and try something new—you might discover a hidden passion or talent!

Student support

A recent report found that 60% of students were unaware of the full scope of services offered to them at their university, which can negatively impact retention and success. This highlights the importance of universities actively promoting their support services and ensuring they are easily accessible.

So, what kind of support is available to students? Universities often have a dedicated student support team or service that provides assistance with a range of issues. This can include academic advising, mental health support, financial aid, and career counselling. Many universities also have disability services to help students get the accommodations they need, such as assistive technology.

Mental health and wellbeing support is a crucial aspect of student life. Most universities provide counselling services, and some also offer wellbeing apps and tools specifically for their students. It is important to know what support is available and how to access it before arriving at university. Students can usually find this information on the university website or by contacting the student support team directly.

In addition to the support provided by the university itself, students can also seek help from their students' union, which can offer information, social events, and support for various hobbies and interests. International students can access specific support services to help them build a community away from home.

To improve accessibility and convenience, some universities have adopted digital solutions, such as a single online portal for resource access or official messaging groups where students can report problems and receive personalised responses. These initiatives aim to meet the expectations of today's students, who often prefer digital communication methods.

Overall, student support services play a vital role in ensuring students' success and well-being during their time at university. By offering a range of resources and assistance, universities can help students navigate the challenges of academic life and beyond.

Workload and expectations

University is a significant life change, and it is important to be prepared for the workload and expectations.

Students should be aware that university is a step up in terms of academic expectations and workload management. Up to two-thirds of your work will be done outside of lectures and seminars, and you will be expected to take ownership of your learning. This means completing independent research, writing papers, preparing for quizzes, exams and presentations, and making your way through suggested reading lists. It is a good idea to get into a routine and stay on top of your work, as this will pay off in the later years, giving you more time to relax and enjoy yourself.

Students often prefer to take an easier course with a lower workload, even if it is less interesting to them, rather than challenge themselves with a more difficult course load. This is a personal choice, but it is worth considering your priorities and the reasons why you are attending university. It is not just about getting a degree; it is about balancing your work and life and gaining new experiences.

University is also about gaining independence and learning to manage your time effectively. This includes finding a good work-life balance and making time for other activities, such as sports teams, societies, and volunteering opportunities. It is important to remember that you don't have to go out partying every night, but it is a good idea to make an effort to socialise and get to know your flatmates, especially during Freshers' Week.

In terms of teaching style, students generally want more tutor contact and flexible, practical, and motivational teaching. They want teachers to tell stories, offer examples, and provide tricks for facing different problems, rather than simply lecturing from a PowerPoint.

Student life and accommodation

University is a significant life change and a chance to embrace independence. Student life is about balancing work and life, and there are many opportunities to get involved in sports teams, societies, and other activities.

Students often live in shared accommodation, which can be a great way to meet people and make friends. It's important to be aware that everyone is feeling anxious about this new chapter, and it's okay to be yourself. While it's good to get involved in social events, there is no pressure to go out every night. Freshers' Week can be rowdy, but things calm down after that. It's a good idea to manage your time effectively, as most of your work will be done outside of lectures and seminars.

There are many ways to save money as a student. Textbooks can be borrowed from the library or bought cheaply online. It's also a good idea to plan meals and cook at home, rather than relying on takeout.

Universities offer support for their students, and it's important to ask for help if needed. Students can also get involved in the Students' Union, where their voices can be heard.

Overall, student life is about embracing new experiences and finding a balance that works for you. It's a chance to learn, grow, and make lasting connections.

Frequently asked questions