This past year has been a whirlwind. Applying for University has been stressful. From personal statements to receiving results, everything has been tumultuous. In the midst of all this havoc, I have been thrown in at the deep end in the past year and I feel like it would be beneficial to share some of the “tips” I have acquired.
- When writing your personal statement it is always best to do it early. I left mine quite late and found myself panicking. A great tip is to have teachers look it over a couple times, get different teachers to look it over as they’ll spot different things.
- Choose your University’s wisely. When choosing your firm and insurance places at uni’s you need to consider all possibilities. First and for most, which course is the best fit for you, take into consideration the way it is examined. Secondly is it somewhere you’d like to stay, look at the area and the sort of social life that you could possibly live with. Thirdly you need to think about your grades in accordance with the entry requirements because if you put a university as an insurance, you are more likely to have to live in a house share. Which is a hassle, but will be worthwhile in the end. (This is currently my state)
- Always think about what you need to take to uni in advance. Pots, pans, cleaning things etc. It’s always a good idea to make a list before buying. Also minimize the number of things you take, as it will be easier to move in and out. Also factor in decor, as you want to feel comfortable in your room.
- Join the chats. Don’t be afraid to join the facebook group chats and network before you’ve even got there. You can make some awesome friends. I managed to get cheaper freshers tickets because of a mate I met on Facebook.
- Always work hard, if you’re not working you will not get the grade. Your grade is down to the amount of time you put in, as well as the teaching. You get what you give.
- If you have to go into a house share (renting privately), go to the events the university sets up. I was pushed into a group and literally went house hunting with them the same day. I am still looking at houses with them and we’ve even talked about staying there for the second year.
Enjoy and learn from the experience, visit all the open days, cherish the time you have to waltz around your possible uni. It’s meant to be an eye opening experience. Treat it like one.
