How To Thrive in Your First Term at Southampton University
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Introduction
The University of Southampton ushers you into a new phase of life that is quite unlike what you’re familiar with or have experienced in the past. It is a very exciting phase, mixed with so many uncertainties and as such it can be overwhelming. The list of things to worry about in your first year of university is long from student houses in Southampton to course load and extracurricular activities. This is why we have compiled a list of useful suggestions to guide you through the year and build a solid foundation for your university career in Southampton.
1. Attend orientation programs– You should attend more than one orientation event. They are a good way to quickly familiarize yourself with the way things are done on campus. You will learn about rules and regulations, school policies, grading systems which are all vital to your success at Southampton. Aside from the school and departmental orientation events, events organized by reputable student-focused organizations like Studyhomes are also a fun way to make friends and ease into university life.
2. Be friends with your housemates– Getting a compatible Southampton student accommodation is another good way to set the tone for your university experience. You want your student houses in Southampton to be another home away from home and this is only possible if you get along with your housemates. So, try to maintain cordial relationships and be open-minded because there are bound to be some differences.
3. Be curious and initiate small talks–Friends do make a whole lot of difference in any new setting and a good way to overcome the awkwardness and make connections is through small talks. Universities like Southampton are a collage of diversity, so you should be curious about different experiences and take a genuine interest in new experiences. New experiences are a good way of forming new memories.
4. Take part in campus activities– there are a lot of exciting opportunities present at Southampton University. Taking part in activities and joining these groups that interest you is a good way to integrate into the different parts of student life in the university. You can form lifelong organic connections from these clubs. They also offer an opportunity to meet older students who are more experienced and can offer insights and guidance when you need it.
5. Organize your schedule– One thing about university life is that you are in charge of your life and day-to-day schedule. Sure, there is a course timetable but if you’re not deliberate you can end up spending the whole time on your bed in your Southampton student accommodation. This is why it is important to organize your schedule and endeavor to stick to it. Take advantage of the available technological tools that you can use to plan your day and organize everyday tasks. This helps to create a rhythm that is valuable especially on difficult days.
6. Pay attention to your Finances– You need to learn the basics of personal finance and budgeting in your first year at the university. You are now on your way to financial independence and financial frustration can disrupt your plans and goals. There is no reason for you to rack up huge debts just to support an overly expensive lifestyle. Develop wise money spending habits like cooking instead of eating out all the time. You can also take advantage of student discounts and offers while shopping. Overall, set a budget according to capabilities and follow through.
7. Create a study routine– Studying is a key part of being a university student, so you need to establish a study routine early. What time of the day is best for you to study? Do you like studying in the library or you can successfully study in your room? These are things you need to establish early by trying out different options and see how they work for you. You also need to determine if study groups work for you or if you need extra classes for some courses. The earlier you set up these routines the better for your progress in the university.
8. Use the available university resources– There are so many resources available at Southampton university and you should take advantage of them. Study the course syllabi and calendars so that you are not caught unawares by a looming deadline. Professors have open office hours to receive students, meet with them and get to them during this period. Speak with your academic advisor and seek out their guidance in scheduling your classes and for clarifications on your course work. If you need to speak to a professional, there are counselors in the university. External organizations like Studyhomes have also been providing support to students at Southampton University for years, so use them.
9. Don’t do it all, prioritize–If you are not careful you can find yourself engrossed in so many activities and events and lose track of important things. There is always something to on campus but you don’t have to be a part of everything. Pay attention to things that interest you and prioritize your schedule to allow for only important things. Never allow yourself to be pressured to join events that you consider a waste of your time.
10. Be accountable to someone–Accountability is very important to have a great and successful time in the university. Sometimes, it can be difficult to be honest with yourself and this is why you need a mentor, friend, or an accountability group. You need at least someone to be aware of the goals and schedule you’ve drawn for yourself. This is necessary to create some sort of check and balance. They can periodically check that you are still following through and on schedule and can offer the encouragement needed during difficult times.
Conclusion
Thriving in your first term at Southampton University is achievable. Your first term does not have to be a mess of mistakes and mishaps and you trying desperately not to sink. With these tips and a good community around you, you will hit the ground running and build a good foundation for your university career.
