University is a big change in life. For a lot of new students, it is your first time staying away from home. Or even your first time out of your hometown. This can bring out a lot of emotions as you adjust to university life, both happy and sad. But don’t worry. This is completely normal. And it’s important to remember that you’re not alone.
Read on for ways to help you settle into university life and find your place in our community.
Speak to someone
Firstly, if you feel like things aren’t quite going to plan, the best thing you can do is speak to someone. Your Personal Tutor is there to help you navigate any academic or social challenges you may be facing. Offering a listening ear, they’re there to discuss a whole host of things like academic abilities, personal development, hobbies, personal circumstances, health issues – the list goes on. And they can direct you to the right service if they’re unable to help themselves.
If you would rather speak to someone outside your department, the Student Support team are here to help. No problem is too big or too small to tackle together – just ask so we can help you get back on track.
Reach out to your friends and family too. Speaking to people you know can help avoid common feelings of homesickness or isolation. And don’t hesitate to reach out to other students too. Many will be in a similar position, experiencing the same pressures and worries that you might be. You may realise it’s helpful to speak to someone, like you, to get their perspective.
Get involved
There are plenty of ways to meet new people, from living in halls to people on your course. But sometimes friendships can take time to form. If you choose, there are lots of activities and events designed to help you meet new people that you can attend.
Our Student Life Team ensures that there is something for everyone on campus, whether that’s pursuing your hobbies or diving into something new. The Student Life Portal is your go-to to find out about all the exciting things that are happening.
The Students’ Union also run a lot of events on campus too. You can attend their weekly socials or join a society to connect with others who share the same interests as you.
Not everyone finds their lifelong friends as soon as they start university. Often the strongest friendships happen naturally and gradually. Each day is a chance to find your people and have fun along the way. Remember, everyone is in the same boat and friendships can be found in unexpected places.
Be yourself. At Edge Hill, everyone is completely welcome to be their true authentic self. Being true to yourself is the easiest way to attract like-minded people, and these are the people you’ll build true friendships with.
Freya
Read Freya’s story about how she found her best friend at Edge Hill University.
Manage your money
A big part of university life is knowing how to handle your money. Keeping track of your finances is important to avoid the stress of running out of money for food, personal bills, socialising, or rent and travel costs if you are living off-campus. A great way to reduce money worries is by using a budget planner. And what better way to start than using a template designed by our very own Edge Hill students? Download our budget plan and adjust it to your personal circumstances.
Our Money Advice team are also available to offer guidance on all money-related matters including the Student Support Fund, budgeting and student bank accounts. Many students also combine their studies with part-time work to earn some extra cash. Not to mention the fact you will gain work experience, develop skills and meet new people. Our Careers team can help you find a part-time job to fit around your studies.
We spoke to some of our students to get their advice on how to make your money go further at university. Read what they had to say.
Prioritise you
We know that it can take time to find your feet and adapt to a new routine. Try to check in with yourself often and ask yourself if there’s anything you need. Make some regular ‘you’ time and aim to do the things you know make you feel good. Like eating right, sleeping well and looking after your physical and mental health. If you don’t feel 100% then it will be harder for you to give 100%.
Meal planning can help, so it’s good to have some cheap and easy recipes up your sleeve. Keeping active helps boost your self-esteem and confidence, and is a good way to meet people too. Edge Hill Sport offer a range of free sport and fitness activities each week.
The Wellbeing team can also help if you need emotional support or you’re feeling anxious. They might identify that you could benefit from our free Counselling service offering a safe space to talk. And there are plenty of self-help resources available online through Togetherall; a 24/7 online community to help manage your mental health and wellbeing.
Read our looking after yourself webpage for more practical tips and support information.
So, if you feel like things aren’t quite going to plan, that’s okay. Remember that learning is the main goal of university, and ups and downs are all part of the journey. From self-discovery to rewarding experiences. It’s an exciting time full of new opportunities; make the most of it. Find the positives for growth in any challenges, and know that support is here if you need it.
October 24, 2023
