How to Make the Most of Your First Year at University: Tips & Advice
Sept 23, 2025
How to Make the Most of Your First Year at University: Tips & Advice
Starting university can feel like a big change - whether you're moving to a new city or staying closer to home, it can feel both exciting and overwhelming. In this article I will share some tips on how to make the most of your first year at uni.
How to Make the Most of Your First Year at Uni: Tips & Advice
Join a society (and actually attend events) - The societies and sports fairs are full of free merch, tote bags, vouchers etc and are a great opportunity to meet older students. But the key is what you do afterwards - make sure you actually attend events after signing up. Try attending at least one or two taster events in your first few weeks. Even if you’re unsure or go alone, it’s a great way to meet people outside of your flat and course. You don’t need to find your perfect group right away, but joining a society gives structure to your week and introduces you to more people around campus.
"Overall, your first year is a chance to explore, learn, and lay the foundations for the rest of your uni experience."
Build small academic habits early
On many courses, your first-year grades don’t count toward your final degree - though this makes it the best time to figure out how to study at uni. The academic system can be very different from school, especially when it comes to self-directed learning.
Start by getting into the habit of using a calendar or planner. Write down all your deadlines early in the term, and block out regular time to study, revise, or do readings. Don’t wait until the night before to start coursework - even reading instructions early and writing a rough plan can take off so much pressure. Getting the hang of note-taking, time management and referencing now will make your second and third years much less stressful!
Get to know your flatmates and course mates
Even if you don’t instantly become best friends, making an effort with the people around you makes your day-to-day life feel more comfortable. Say hi in the kitchen, invite someone to a society event, or suggest a flat dinner together. On your course, try to introduce yourself to the people you sit near in lectures or seminars. Having someone to message about a confusing assignment or work on a group project can be very helpful.
Make use of uni support services
Warwick offers loads of free support hosted by both the university and different societies, which many students are unaware of - for instance careers services, wellbeing sessions, mentorship schemes, and academic skills resources. In your first term, try attending at least one event, whether it’s an essay skills session or a drop-in CV clinic. You’ll feel more confident knowing where to go if you do need help later on.
Overall, your first year is a chance to explore, learn, and lay the foundations for the rest of your uni experience. It’s easy to feel like everyone else is instantly thriving, but the truth is that most people are figuring things out slowly! If you feel homesick or a bit out of place at first, you’re definitely not alone. You don’t need to have a perfect group of friends or top grades straight away - just take things step by step and start to build small habits.
If you have any questions about the EPP course, societies or life at Warwick in general, feel free to message me anytime on the Unibuddy platform! I’m happy to help with any questions.
Jasmine