Here’s a quick guide to finding and balancing work alongside your studies:
What work can you do?
Anything you like! But if you’re looking for some ideas, here are some popular jobs among students:
Bar work offers flexible evening shifts that fit around lectures. However, be prepared for late nights and some challenging customers.
Hospitality jobs in cafes, restaurants, and hotels can be flexible around uni and may come with perks like free food. Just keep in mind the hours can be long and often involve being on your feet.
Retail jobs in supermarkets or shops include tasks like stocking shelves, serving customers, and working the till. They’re usually flexible and you can often get extra hours during busy periods like Christmas. Just be aware that weekend work is common and hours can vary.
Tutoring involves helping younger students with subjects like maths, English or science. It’s often online, so there are no travel costs, and the pay can be higher than other jobs. Just make sure you’ve got reliable internet and a quiet, private space to work from.
How do I find work?
Sort your CV – if you don’t have one yet, there are plenty of free templates online, and Save the Student has a helpful guide to writing a CV. The Careers Team here at UWE can also support you with CV writing and feedback.
Start your job search – look across a range of platforms to find part time jobs that suit you. Here are some good places to start:
Apply – make sure each application is tailored to the role. Read the job description carefully, highlight your relevant skills, and double-check for any errors before submitting. Keeping track of your applications can also help you stay organised.
Prepare for interviews – if you’re invited to an interview, research the company and be ready to talk about your experience, availability, and what makes you a good fit. The UWE Careers Team can support you with mock interviews and helpful advice.
Balancing work and study
Balancing a part-time job with your studies can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you manage:
– Be clear about the hours you’re available and check if your employer can accommodate them
– Ask if you’ll be able to take time off when needed, especially around exams
– Use a planner (digital or paper) to stay on top of your uni and work commitments
– Prioritise rest and relaxation. It’s important for your wellbeing as well as your studies
Why it’s worth it
A part-time job can bring in extra money, boost your CV and help you develop useful skills if it fits well around your studies. You could gain experience in teamwork, communication, and time management, while also building confidence and independence. The key is making sure it supports your student life, not overwhelms it.
through the UWE Bristol app, which gives you quick access to email alongside things like Blackboard and your timetable
If you use your phone to regularly check your emails, we recommend downloading the Microsoft Outlook app.
An overflowing inbox, with new emails coming in faster than you can delete the old ones, can feel like a lot. We get it. And we know you don’t want to be inundated with irrelevant information or unnecessary updates. Which is why we’re working hard to ensure that we are only sending you the stuff you need to know about.
However, email is still going to be one of your main communication channels as a student and it’s so important that you’re keeping on top of the different info being sent your way. Life as a uni student means taking on new challenges, and one of those might be having to manage a busy inbox for the first time.
Which emails should I prioritise?
Not every email needs an immediate response, but there are some you really shouldn’t leave sitting unread. Pay particular attention to emails about:
your course, modules or teaching
changes to classes or your timetable
assessments and academic information
registration or your student record
student finance
IT security, passwords or your UWE account
wellbeing, safety or important University updates
anything that specifically asks you to complete an action by a deadline
You’ll also receive emails at key stages of the year. These emails will include information about how you’re engaging with your studies, based on the data available to us, including your attendance at teaching sessions, assessment submissions and other study-related activity. We will also provide tailored information about the services we have here at UWE Bristol which are designed to help you succeed, so they’re worth opening rather than saving for “later”.
So, we’re here to help! The tips below will help you embrace good habits and become a pro at managing your emails:
Get organised – Create folders within your inbox so you can keep related emails together and find important information more easily. You could create folders for individual modules, society updates or correspondence with your landlord. When everything has a place, your inbox will feel much more manageable and less overwhelming.
Unsubscribe from emails you don’t need – You have the power to stop many unwanted marketing emails from reaching your inbox. If you no longer find a mailing list useful, take a moment to unsubscribe using the link provided. However, don’t unsubscribe from important university updates. These may include essential information about term dates, academic regulations, IT services, health and wellbeing support, and opportunities available to you. If an email looks suspicious, avoid clicking any links and report it as phishing instead.
Don’t let emails build up – Five unread emails can quickly become 50 if you keep putting them off. When you open an email, try to do one of three things: delete it, take action or file it. Don’t be afraid to delete messages you no longer need, but avoid leaving important emails sitting unread.
Set some boundaries – Having access to your emails on your phone can help you stay informed while you’re on the go. However, being connected around the clock isn’t always helpful. Try checking your inbox at set times during the day and consider turning off notifications when you’re studying, relaxing or getting ready to sleep.
Choose the right way to communicate – Not every conversation needs to happen over email. You could keep your university inbox mainly for academic and official messages, and use platforms such as WhatsApp or Teams for personal or social conversations. If a discussion with your lecturer becomes a lengthy email exchange, it may be quicker and easier to arrange a conversation with them instead.
Make the most of your inbox – Email platforms such as Outlook and Gmail include useful features that can help you stay organised, including folders, categories, filters, flags and automatic rules. Take a little time to explore online guides or tutorials and find the tools that work best for you.
Ask for help – These tips should make your university inbox easier to manage, but support is available if you get stuck. Visit the UWE Email webpage for further information and guidance.
Between finding your way around your new campus, meeting new people, and navigating student life, keeping on top of your budget can easily slip down the list.
Here’s a quick guide to help you manage your money while enjoying being a UWE Bristol student!
Local supermarkets
Bigger supermarkets are usually cheaper than the smaller corner shops, so it’s worth the walk. 💡Top tip: Lidl and Aldi are usually the cheapest, followed by ASDA, then Sainsbury’s (especially if you’ve got a Nectar card).
Below are some good options near your campus.
Frenchay:
ASDA Filton Superstore – located in the Abbeywood Retail Park (15-20 min walk)
Lidl – located on Fox Den Road (10-15 min walk)
Aldi – located on Fox Den Road (roughly a 15 min walk)
Sainsbury’s – located on Fox Den Road (around a 15 min walk)
Glenside:
Lidl – located on Fishponds Road (20-25 min walk)
Morrisons – located on Fishponds Road (20-25 min walk)
Iceland – Channons Hill (15 min walk)
City Campus:
Aldi – located on North Street (20 min walk)
Sainsbury’s – located on Winterstoke Road (25 min walk)
Getting around Bristol
There are lots of ways to get around, but buses are usually the cheapest and easiest.
First Bus: First Bus is the main bus company in Bristol, it offers several routes connecting UWE campuses with the city centre and surrounding areas. The First Bus app has live bus times and a journey planner. As a student, you can get discounted ticket prices on the app.
M1/M3/M4 Metrobus: Metrobus services (M1, M3, M4) are rapid routes that connect Frenchay Campus to the city centre and Cribbs Causeway. They run late too, which is perfect for getting home after a night out.
You can also hire e-scooters and e-bikes around the city which are great for quick trips and easy to use. Just download the Dott app, ensure you’re signed up for student discount, find a ride nearby, and go 🛴.
Food and drink on campus
Making your own food is always the cheapest option, but we get it, Freshers’ Week is hectic. Check out how to keep your food and drink spend low on Frenchay campus, Glenside Campus and City Campus.
And of course, if you’ve been organised and got yourself to a supermarket, here are some great student-friendly recipes to get you started: BBC Good Food or Mob’s Easy & Cheap Student Recipes.
The summer before joining university feels like a blur; one minute you’re celebrating the end of an era with your friends, and the next minute you’re anticipating the big “unknown” as you embark on the next chapter of life.
We understand that it’s a lot to get your head around, which is why we’ve spoken to 3 students who have been through it before. Who better to describe the first-year whirlwind than Julian, Xenia and Tareem. See what they had wish they’d known and what advice they have for you…
Meet Julian Scerri, second year Optometry MSCI student 👀
“My first year at UWE Bristol has been a great experience. My course has been both challenging and rewarding, and I’ve really enjoyed developing practical skills alongside the academic side of the course. The course is very hands-on and well-structured to prepare you for the real world. I wish I had known that it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at first.
Everyone is adjusting, and once you settle into a routine and meet people on your course, university quickly starts to feel like home. I was surprised by how much independent learning there is. There aren’t as many lectures as there were back at school, so you’re expected to put in a lot of work in your own time. It’s important to manage your time well, but the lecturers are always there to support you whenever you need help.
“I expected the workload to be a lot more overwhelming, but realistically I still had plenty of time outside the course to relax and do the things I enjoy.”
Alongside my studies, I continued competing internationally for Malta in squash, travelling to tournaments across Europe while representing both my country and UWE. Balancing sport and university wasn’t always easy, but the support from my course staff made sure I never fell behind and helped make everything as manageable as possible.
I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved in my first year, and I’m excited to see what second year brings.”
MeetTareem Asfour, final year Biomedical Science BSC (Hons) student 🔬
“I wish I had known that one day I’ll have everything figured out and not to stress about it from day one. Everyone starts university feeling the same: lost, confused, and lonely.
But, things do get much easier.”
“Be open to meeting new people, embracing new cultures, and learn to ask for help when you need it-whether it’s with your course or just adjusting to university life.
I was surprised by how friendly everyone is. As an international student, I expected to feel lonely throughout most of my first year. However, everyone is in the same boat as you and is keen to make friends.
Those connections made settling into university much easier than I had expected. I think the key is to keep your priorities in mind and find a routine that works for you. I make sure to attend all my lectures and take notes, which I review when I get back to my accommodation. Outside of exam season, I try to study for at least one to two hours a day while also making time to go to the gym and spend time with my friends. Finding that balance has made university much more manageable.”
MeetXenia Giagli, final year Mental Health Nursing BSC (Hons) student 🏥
“Studying a demanding nursing course, which includes placements and a longer duration than other courses, hasn’t been easy but it has taught me how to manage my time effectively and build a healthy routine. I prioritise recharging on the weekends and taking care of myself in order to have a full battery for a busy week ahead.
I take walks in nature, and try to eat and sleep well whenever I can which improves my mental health and resilience.
“Having things planned beforehand has been a major tool in maintaining a healthy study/social balance on the busiest of weeks.”
I was surprised at the relationships I was able to build with lecturers and how approachable and friendly they are. My lecturers have been with me every step of the way. My personal tutor has been very helpful whenever I had an issue, no matter how small or big.
I wish I had known how much support there is to help you settle into student life, meet new people and join events and societies. I was very scared at first, but I have since figured out there is a great deal of help available for students, including the Student Life team, socials for neurodivergent and disabled students and all sorts of interest-based societies so that everyone can feel included and welcomed to the university.”
If you’re feeling nervous, excited, overwhelmed or all the above, we have plenty of support available:
Moving to a new country is exciting… but it can also feel overwhelming. Here are some simple tips to help you settle in and make the most of your experience.
And if you’re starting with us in September 2026, you can join our International and EU student orientation programme, where you can meet other students and get help with settling into university life in the UK.
Get familiar with your local area
Take some time to explore your campus and the amazing city you’ve chosen to study in!
Feeling confident about your surroundings can help you feel at home more quickly. Find out where the nearest supermarkets, pharmacies, banks and transport links are.
Most large supermarkets in Bristol have an international food aisle plus there are lots of international supermarkets across the city!
Manage your finances
Keep track of your spending and remember to plan for essentials such as accommodation, food and travel. Setting up a UK bank account and creating a budget can make daily life much easier. Plus the Blackbullion app is a great way to budget – and enter student competitions!
Build new connections
As you settle in, keep connected with friends and family back home – but be sure to make the most of the opportunity to meet new people.
Don’t be afraid to start conversations! There will be lots of other students feeling how you feel, so why not make the first move and say hi?
Look after your wellbeing
As you settle into new routines, make sure you’re eating well, getting enough sleep and regular exercise. It might sound obvious, but these will help you settle in and feel your best.
If you’re feeling homesick or stressed, we recommend the Wisdom app. It’s free to download and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s here for when you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or just need some inspiration to manage your wellbeing. You can talk to a counsellor via WhatsApp or a call.
Embrace your new home
Trying local food, exploring nearby attractions and learning about UK traditions can make your experience more rewarding.
At the same time, celebrate and share your own culture with others – diversity is one of the things that makes uni life so special.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself
Settling into life in the UK will take some time and that’s ok. Pace yourself and enjoy it!
If you’ve secured a place at UWE Bristol (congrats!) then you might already know a bit about our amazing city and all it has to offer.
As a Student Comms team, we’ve got over 40 years’ experience living in Bristol, and in this time the city has been through big changes. If you haven’t had a chance to visit yet – and especially if you’ve found your way to us through clearing – we thought we’d introduce Bristol and why we love it so much.
1. Be a tourist and check out the sights 📸
Make your friends from home jealous by sharing selfies with our world-famous landmarks. Marvel at Clifton Suspension Bridge, get a few snaps in Clifton Wood, or have a peaceful moment at Arnos Vale Cemetery. The Clifton Suspension Bridge is not only a mean feat of engineering but provides the perfect backdrop for that “I’ve arrived in Bristol!” selfie – it’s what Brunel would’ve wanted 😉
Bristol is over 650 years old, and with that history comes so much to explore. You could check out Cabot Tower, set in the beautiful parkland of Brandon Hill (climb the tower itself for unrivalled views of the city) and the iconic Bristol harbourside – home to the S.S. Great Britain.
Known for quirky independents to Michelin-starred gems, Bristol has it all! There’s a strong focus on local, organic and ethical food. Grab some of Bristol’s best street food at St. Nicks Market or head to Cargo at Wapping Wharf – home to a host of independent eateries.
4. Get out in nature
Bristol is overflowing with green spaces to chill, study and meet friends in. Countryside surrounds the city on all sides and in-between – highlights close to our campuses include the beautiful Ashton Court, Stoke Park and Snuff Mills, and in the city centre, Queen Square, Victoria Park and the Downs are all worth a visit.
5. Connect to local culture
Street art, museums, history – Bristol’s culture is as vibrant and diverse as our city is. Get to know the heart of Bristol by catching an independent film at Watershed, seeing some live jazz at The Old Juke; or booking yourself onto a Banksy walking tour to get those snaps for the grid.
6. Get to a festival (there’s one for pretty much everything)
From big clubs with top DJs to gigs, underground speakeasies, regular comedy nights and karaoke – and a huge LGBTQ+ scene – Bristol nightlife is lit! Bristol’s also been awarded the Purple Flag status in recognition of our efforts to keep our city a vibrant and safe place to enjoy at night.
8. Take up a new sport
Across the city you’ll find opportunities for climbing, sailing, cycling and so much more. We recommend trying your hand at paddle boarding down the harbour or heading to the outskirts of the city where you’ll find The Wave; a popular year-round inland-surfing destination. Ashton Gate Stadium also houses Bristol City Football club and Bristol Bears if you want to cheer on our local teams!
9. Shop independent
Gloucester Road, Stokes Croft and Montpelier fall just outside the main city and are a lively hub for student life, lined with vintage shops, quirky cafés and a Banksy or two. Head to North Street in Bedminster for tonnes of urban art, and the Tobacco Factory Market on Sundays for ethical and eco-friendly goods, food and drink, craft and art stalls.
10. Adopt a bit of the local slang
Well, Bristol is known for being diverse, independent, creative and, most importantly, super friendly. Catchphrases you’ll hear out and about are “Cheers drive” for any form of transport; “Alright my loverrr” as a standard greeting; and “Shipshape and Bristol fashion” for when things are in good order – such as like your study notes, timetable, your (sustainable) out-out wardrobe…
Wanna explore further?
You can find out more about all the places we’ve mentioned on the Visit Bristol website.
We hope you’ll have fun exploring our – wait – your city. Share your pics with us by using #HelloUWEBristol 📸
The start of the academic year can be a busy time as you get settled into student life at UWE Bristol.
This handy guide features some of the most commonly-asked questions to support new and returning students. And remember, if you still need an answer to your question, submit an enquiry on My Student Life.
After you enrol in MYUWE, you’ll be able to access your timetable. Once enrolled and providing timetables have been published, they will show in MYUWE 3 working days later. Your Starting Block timetable will appear automatically.
New students: If you’ve uploaded a photo to MYUWE, your card will be ready 2 working days later from the campus you study at, unless otherwise advised.
I’m confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room?
If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 2S706, then you’re looking for 2 – Level 2; S – S Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 706 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this campus map.
If I have a question about something where can I go?
You can find an answer or submit an enquiry on My Student Life. Staff at our InfoPoint will also be happy to help you. You can find it in D Block – 1D11.
Life at City Campus 🎨
Where do I catch a bus to town?
We recommend catching buses from Blackmoors Lane rather than anywhere else as they are much more frequent there.
How do I get between Bower Ashton, Arnolfini and Spike Island?
There’s no UWE parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island, so you might want to consider public transport, cycling or walking. Check out this handy cycling map for guidance. If you need help getting around Bower Ashton you can use this map or our interactive map.
Can I park at Bower Ashton?
There’s very limited parking at Bower. If you’re going to park here, you need a permit. If the car park is full, you can try Ashton Court just up the hill (although that’s not free). There’s no UWE Bristol car parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island – you’ll need to use public car parks.
If I have a question about something where can I go?
You can find an answer or submit an enquiry on My Student Life. Staff at our InfoPoint will also be happy to help you. The Bower Ashton one is B Block, opposite the Art Shop. There’s also one on the fourth floor of the Arnolfini.
How can I print?
You can print ordinary things like A4 black and white via Pharos. You’ll be given £15 on your account at the start of the year.
If you want to print something more specialist, visit the Digital Print Bureau in 0C008.
Where can I use specialist software?
There are loads of opportunities for you to access specialist software, depending on what you need it for. This includes the library, and specialist computer suites in D Block, G Block and B block at Bower Ashton, as well as software at the Arnolfini and Spike Island.
Where can I buy art supplies?
Go wild in the Art Shop! You get an £80 materials allowance each year and you can use it at the Art Shop or the Digital Design Studio.
I’ve lost something – where might it be?
Everything makes its way to the Security office in F Block, check here first! Or email uwecard@uwe.ac.uk to find out if something is there.
Life at Glenside 🏥
I’m so confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room?
If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 1F06, then you’re looking for 1 – Level 1; F – F Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 06 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this map.
How do I order my placement name badge?
New student: If you’ve completed your online registration, a placement name badge will be ordered for you and it’ll be issued at one of your teaching sessions before you start your simulation skills sessions.
Returning student: If you need a replacement placement name badge, email the team and they’ll order one for you and email you when your badge is ready to collect.
How do I order my placement uniform?
If you’ve completed your online registration in MYUWE, you’ll be emailed details of how to order your placement uniform during induction week. If you’ve registered and haven’t received the email, contact the Information Point.
Are there showers and changing rooms at Glenside?
Yes! These can be found in 1E06 and 1E09. You can ask Glenside Reception staff for a code to access the rooms – you’ll need to show your student ID card.
Are there student lockers at Glenside?
Lockers for short term use are available in the changing rooms in 1E06 and 1E09. To hire a locker for long term use, please email travel.plan@uwe.ac.uk to request one.
I’ve just started my course at Glenside – I applied for the NHS LSF Training Grant, when will I receive my first payment?
You’ll receive it in November, if:
you started your course in September
you’ve completed your student online registration.
We’ll confirm your attendance to the NHSBSA in early November to release the funds to you. It can take up to 10 working days for payment to be processed once we’ve confirmed your attendance.
I have a timetabled teaching session in room 0SC014 at Glenside – where is it?
0SC014 is located at the back of the Glenside Student Centre (old Student Union) building. It is the big brown wooden building located near car park 10.
How do I contact the Accommodation Office at Glenside?
Glenside Accommodation Service office is located near the Hub in 1H29. Reach them here.
How can I contact Occupational Health Service at Glenside?
If I have a question about something, where can I go?
You can find an answer or submit an enquiry on My Student Life. Staff at our InfoPoint will also be happy to help you. You can find it in Glenside Library in D Block.
Your Course 🎓
I already feel like my course isn’t right for me? Can I switch?
Please don’t rush into a decision, it sometimes takes a while to settle in to university life. First, chat to your programme leader or your academic personal tutor and explain to them what you’re struggling with. They can offer support and guidance. If you’d like more in-depth advice about your options, you can get in touch with a Student Support Adviser.
The Students’ Union runs a student rep system, and ideally look for one student rep for every 25 students on your year of study on your course. They are usually chosen at the start of the academic year, so speak to your programme leader about this if you haven’t already received information about it.
I’m struggling with my course? I feel like I’m behind with the work and need some support.
Use the resources of the UWE Bristol Student Money Service. They have plenty of online information as well as an enquiry form to support and advise you. There are additional resources on Money and Finance, including an enquiry form for tuition fee issues.
My rent is really high and I can’t afford it/I’m struggling with money. What can I do?
Firstly we advise students to apply for all the funding they are eligible for from Student Finance and then apply for the Student Support Fund. Many students also choose to take on part-time work alongside their studies, and sign up to Blackbullion for free money education.
I haven’t managed to find anywhere to live. Who can help me?
Don’t panic – there’s lots of help out there to make sure you find somewhere to live. The Students’ Union can support you, so check out their advice pages.
I’m struggling with my housemates and I really want to move.
I need some help for my mental health. Where can I get the support I need?
If you’re struggling with your mental health and wellbeing then please don’t hesitate in reaching out for support. Download the Wisdom app, which offers live chat and video calls with counsellors. Also check out our Wellbeing Service webpage which includes a range of self-help resources and guidance.
I’m concerned about my drug or alcohol use at the moment, and really feel like I could do with some help.
UWE Bristol does not condone or condemn the use of drugs including alcohol; we are focused on providing students with the knowledge to be safe and feel supported. We operate a policy of harm reduction that prioritises the welfare and wellbeing of our students and wider community. We have a free Drugs and Alcohol Service if you would like support from a professional.
I’m looking for support following sexual assault?
We have an Anti-Sexual Violence Service here at UWE Bristol which provides a non-judgemental, inclusive and confidential safe space for you to seek support if you have experienced sexual trauma of any kind, even if you don’t want to report something.
Disability Support 🫱🏼🫲🏾
I have a disability and feel nervous about how this will be managed during my time at university.
Please don’t be nervous, there is a whole range of support available to you. If you haven’t already done so, make sure you have disclosed your disability to the Disability Service. This Disability Support Guide covers everything you need to know.
I am neurodivergent, and would like to know what support is available to me.
I want to start thinking about my future career, as well as looking for part-time work or internships while I study. Who can help with this?
There are so many opportunities available here for you at UWE Bristol:
You can find part-time and term-time roles that work around your studies by visiting the JobShop.
InfoHub is your first stop for careers advice, job listings, and help finding internships.
I want to start thinking about my career in the creative industries – how can I do this?
Learn how to talk about your creative skills and experience in a way employers understand. We offer regular sessions to explore freelancing, running your own business, building your CV, covering letters, and confidence. UWE Careers & Enterprise Padlet
Use our Showcase website to develop your online presence and portfolio.
Excitement. Nerves. Anticipation. It’s completely normal to experience a whole range of emotions as you start your university experience.
Knowing what to expect during those first few weeks can really help you prepare for what’s to come, and help ensure that you make the most of this opportunity.
Get settled into accommodation
If you’re moving out of home and into student accommodation then that can be one of the most exciting parts of your uni adventure. It might feel like there’s a lot to think about, but don’t worry – there’s tonnes of advice on this Student Life page.
If you’re going to be staying at home, then don’t worry. You’re not going to miss out on anything, and there are so many other students in the same situation as you. Plus there are even specific social events to help you meet new friends.
Starting Block
We know the whole experience might feel daunting, so we’ve developed Starting Block – a series of activities for you to get to know your teaching team and your coursemates.
Once you’ve registered, you’ll see Starting Block activities drop into your timetable so make sure you keep an eye on that and be ready to get stuck in so you get the best possible induction to university life.
Get out and meet people
An important part of university life is meeting new people and making connections. To help you do this, there are a huge range of events and activities you can get involved with, whether you’re the life of the party or you prefer something more low key.
This is your chance to shape your experience to suit you, so take a look at what’s on offer and start building your community.
Explore Bristol
If you’re moving here to Bristol you’ve made a great choice! It’s the perfect student city with so much to offer no matter what your interests are. Arts and culture? Check. Independent shops and restaurants? Check. Incredible nightlight? Check.
Get out there, explore everything and make new friends and memories along the way. Sites such as VisitBristol are a great way see what’s on, and find activities and events that suit your interests and budget.
The move from school or college to university can feel a little overwhelming. Perhaps for the first time, you’re going to have to take responsibility for many aspects of your life – your education, your wellbeing, your finances.
Although it can seem intimidating at first, there’s so much support available to you to make sure you’ve got the help you need every step of the way. But you’ll need to reach out and access this support for yourself.
Switch your mindset now and start thinking about the ways you are going to need to be more independent. This new attitude will help you develop and grow, and ultimately allow you to have the best possible start to uni life!
You will be responsible for your own time – get organised. You’re likely to have competing demands on your time. You’ll have lectures to attend, projects to finish, friends to message and social plans to arrange. Add to that paid work, exercise, food and sleep, and it all starts to look a bit busy. Nobody is going to tell you how to stay on top of all this, time management needs to be your priority! If you think you need extra support with this, you might want to book an appointment with one of our Student Experience Coaches.
Things won’t get done if you don’t do them. Putting off an assessment, ignoring that looming deadline, forgetting to reply to that email from your lecturer. The only person that can do the things that you need to get done as part of your course is you. Bite the bullet, eat the frog – however you want to phrase it – stop procrastinating and tick off that To Do list to stay on top of your studies. Why not brush up on your study skills if this is something you struggle with.
You get out what you put in. There is SO much to love about university life and so many opportunities out there for you to make the most of. But these things aren’t just handed to you on a plate. If you want good marks in your assessments, you need to attend lectures and do the work. If you want to set yourself up for successful career when you graduate, then you need to go out and find internships and work placements so your CV is polished. If you want to travel abroad as part of your studies, then you need to do the research and work out how to make it happen.
Get to know who you are and what makes you happy. University is an opportunity to meet new people, take up new hobbies and learn new skills. While this is incredibly exciting and exhilarating, it’s also important that you know when to say no. Getting the balance right between pushing yourself out of your comfort zone while still knowing and enforcing your boundaries, is a tricky thing to learn.
Look after yourself. It sounds so basic, but nobody is going to remind you to drink enough water, eat nutritious meals, get an early night every now and again. But they are so vital if you want to stay healthy. You are now responsible for your own health and wellbeing so give it the attention it deserves.
Don’t be afraid to lean on old support systems and create new ones. Just because you’re here at uni doesn’t mean all your friends and family back home disappear. Make sure you keep in contact with them, especially if you’re finding things difficult. Also, work on building those support systems here at university as well, so that you feel like you have people to turn to when you need to.
Ask for help if you need it. Remember, although it’s down to you to manage your own university experience, you can access so much support here at UWE Bristol. Academic staff are available to answer your questions, the Student Money Service can help with budgeting, our Wellbeing services can support you when times feel tough. But you need to be the one to reach out and access all these services. If you’re going through a tricky patch, find the help that you need and make the most of it.
