How to get the most out of your first year of university
Heading into your first year of university and feeling a bit stressed? Don’t worry! This is an entirely normal feeling when embarking on such a big change in your life. Starting university can be daunting, but it doesn’t need to be! University is where you make some fantastic memories so it’s super important to make sure you get the most out of your time there.
Here are our top 8 tips to help get you through this exciting but nerve-racking time of your life!
1. Keep an open mind when meeting new people
During your first days at your university, you may feel like you want to stick with people you may already know from high school but now is the time to step out of your comfort zone! One thing we can guarantee is that you will be doing many ice-breaker challenges within your halls which are organised games to help you to get to know each other, as cheesy as they are, they are a great way to get the ball rolling and create conversations with new people.
2. Don’t let yourself fall behind in your studies
It’s super easy in your first year to get lost in a wave of exciting and fresh experiences but don’t forget what you’re there for! University studies are self-managed so it might feel like you have lots of free time but it’s crucial that you keep productive. Keep on track with your weekly lectures, readings, and tutorials so you don’t have to cram at the end of the semester for exam time. We recommend getting a diary to keep track of all your weekly tasks and assignment due dates.
3. Use a map to get an idea of where all your classes will be
Picture this; you’re stressed and nervous about it being your first day, you arrive at the university in time for your first class and you’re completely lost and can’t find it. Eeeek! Avoid all of this by having a map of the campus on you and highlighting where you need to go and giving yourself ample time to avoid awkwardly showing up 10 minutes into the class!
4. Set aside time for self-care
University can be some of the best fun you have but it can also be extremely stressful. A lot of your time will be taken up by studying or hanging out with mates, so you need to still take some time for yourself! Some easy and cost-effective things you can do might be going on a walk with your favourite podcast, meditating, reading a book, or joining a university sports team. You can also have a pamper sesh with your favourite mask - we recommend our It's A Vibe Kiwi & Avo Mud Mask.
5. Budget your money wisely
Uni is an easy way to guzzle through all your summer savings, so ensuring you spend your dosh wisely is of paramount importance. We recommend getting a full-time summer job when on break from uni to save up as much as possible for the coming year. We also know it can be hard to resist, but try your best to avoid spending all your money on food, and utilise the food at your hall to your advantage.
6. Get a shower caddy and shower shoes
Whilst living in a hall it's impossible to leave your shower products in the bathroom and hope nobody uses them. We recommend getting a shower caddy - a basket for all your goodies to sit in and can easily carry to the bathroom. It’s also no secret that uni halls are breeding grounds for bacteria and are known to be generally quite unhygienic. Get some jandals to take into the shower to give yourself some extra piece of mind.
7. Two words: mattress topper
One thing we recommend not missing out on is a good mattress topper. You might be used to the luxury of your own bed at home but at halls, you will have to persevere with their issued king-single mattress. Getting a good mattress topper will make your room feel more home-y and will help you get your much-needed beauty sleep!
8. Have fun
This is such a pivotal and exciting time in your life. Starting uni will possibly be the first time you have lived independently, the growth opportunities with this experience will be huge. Try to practice mindfulness and enjoy this special time in your life!