Introduction to Higher Education
Where I started:
After completing my GCSEs, I moved schools to a different sixth form so that I could make new friends and gain new experiences. I studied three A-levels at sixth form; geography, English Literature and Physical Education and I also undertook an EPQ which allowed me to research a topic I was really interested in. EPQs demonstrate to universities during the application process that you have the research, referencing and writing skills desired and required to succeed in higher education. I came to university straight from sixth form. For me, this was the right decision because I was ready to leave home and pursue a subject I loved. However, many of my friends took a gap year to give them for time to decide their next steps e.g. work/apprenticeships/university and earn some money in the meantime.
Looking at Universities and then Choosing the Top 5:
Choosing a university which is going to suit you is so important as this is where you are going to be studying and living for at least the next three years! The most important factors in this process will depend on the type of person you are. For example, I chose the South West of England for its location, being near the sea and National Parks such as Dartmoor and Exmoor, but this may not matter to you so much. Narrowing down 200+ higher education providers to your top 5 choices is a complex task. My advice is to visit as many open days as possible to give you an authentic feel of student life at that university of higher education provider and look at tables such as the Complete University Guide which will provide information on the best places for your chosen course.
Tackling Results Day:
It is completely normal to feel anxious on the run up to results day, but it is important to remember by this point, there is nothing you can do! On the morning of results day, decide whether you want to see your results first or log into UCAS first. I chose to open up UCAS first where I discovered I unfortunately hadn’t made it into either my firm or insurance choice which put me into clearing. After finding out my grades, I decided not to choose a remark of papers but instead take the view that rejection is redirection! I spent the afternoon phoning universities which had geography courses in clearing and by the end of the day had secured a place at the University of Plymouth to start a month later. Once you have a place confirmed, it is so exciting looking forward to the next stage of your life.
Navigating Freshers’ Week:
Freshers’ week is a fantastic time full of social opportunities and for many, the highlight of first year! Universities offer a packed schedule of both sober and alcoholic events for
new students to engage with and make friends at. The expansive range of activities means that there is always something for everyone. However, the enormity of starting university and seeing so many opportunities on offer can feel a bit overwhelming which is totally understandable. Never feel pressured especially when it comes to going clubbing or drinking; there will be other people like you who would much rather a low-key night in! Additionally, you have got three whole years to get involved with student life, so it doesn’t matter if Freshers’ Week isn’t for you.
Starting university:
For many people, this is their first time living away from home so becoming used to independent living is the first challenge. Creating a weekly schedule for yourself is a great way to make sure you create a sustainable routine and find a balance between jobs which need to be done and fun things you would like to do. Budgeting your money early on enables you to spread your finances across the term, especially as student loans come as a lump sum at the beginning of term. I found that academically the first year of university gradually eases you into your degree. This means you have time to find your feet emotionally and socially before having to focus fully on your studies. Getting used to life at university takes longer for some people than others but with the support of new friends, course mates and university support services, it soon begins to feel very normal!
