Starting university: tips and tricks

Maihvish is studying MPharm here at The University of Bradford. She gives us her tips for starting university and making the most out of Freshers.

Maihvish Iqbal, MPharm

Excited and maybe a little bit nervous to start university?

Don’t worry! Here, I’ll give you all the little tips and tricks you need for starting university on a good note.

Summer holiday prep

Since there’s still some time left before you start university or even attend freshers week, it’s a good idea to look up the modules you’ll be studying for the year so that you’ve got a head start on preparation. It’s easy to find these by searching up your course on the University of Bradford website. If you scroll down the page, there will be a section highlighting what you will be studying in each year and each term.

There’s no need to actually study EVERYTHING, as you’ll be taught it. However, looking around your subject can widen your own views and can help you to make better connections with the topics when you begin to study them at university.

• Also, look at what the University has to offer in terms of facilities e.g. the gym and other facilities related to your chosen course of study. This will make you feel better equipped and the gym, for example, can be a source of motivation.
• Set up a bank account if you haven’t already. This is important for any bursaries etc you get and also if you want to get a job.
• University essentials should be ready in advance. These include a pencil case (preferably transparent as it could then be utilised for exams), calculator (if needed for your course), folder (to make notes in and keep all notes together), a diary (for planning your days and structuring your time), and a document prepared for noting down all the activities and achievements you have throughout the year.

It is also a good idea to follow the University of Bradford’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages to keep up to date on news, events and other updates.

Freshers week fun!

The main and most important point of freshers week is to have fun! (pick up all the pens that are being offered, they’ll probably last you for the full year!- and other freebies such as food) and you have the whole week to look through everything and participate in activities!

• Ensure before freshers week starts, that you have noted down all the societies you want to join (easily accessible on the University of Bradford’s Student’s Union website). This will make it easier and quicker for you to find them on freshers week. Some societies will also allow you to participate in activities such as sports societies. It is a taster to see if this really is the society you want to join!

• You’ll meet a lot of people, so make friends! Some of them may even be doing the same course as you and it’ll make your transition into university and the course itself easier.
• See if you can apply to become a student ambassador. The pay is good and works around your schedule and it’s a very good experience that also builds your confidence.

General tips

• Don’t try to commit to a part-time job straight away in the first term as it could pull you away from your university work and you need to get off to a good start. However, once you have maintained the work balance, getting a job couldn’t be easier with the University careers advisers.
• Make time to socialise. You need a balance of work and social life. There are plenty of places to visit in Bradford and surrounding areas such as the cinema (3 different ones in Bradford), you’ll be spoilt for choice on places to eat, and there’s plenty of countryside to explore.
• Lastly, never be afraid to ask for help!

Good luck on your journey at The University of Bradford. Maintain the study and fun balance and make every day count!