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.”
Meet Tareem 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.”
Meet Xenia 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:
- Get instant support with the Wisdom app or find support that feels right for you
- Sign up to MOVE, a free membership to all UWE Bristol students
- Check out our blog post: The 10 best things to do in Bristol in 2026
And don’t forget to follow us on social too, to stay updated on the latest news and events.
