You might be wondering how going to University will be different from going to school. The biggest difference is that you’ll be more independent. Here’s how:
Unlike teachers, university lecturers are there to give you some of the information, point you in the right direction and then leave you to it.
You’ll be expected to do some research of your own and find out more about the subject in your own time.
You’ll have your own Personal Tutor who will be there to offer support and assistance whenever you need it.
At ¾«¶«´«Ã½, you’ll be given a Peer Guide– a student that’s in their second or third year and already been in your shoes. Peer Guides are there to help you settle in to life at university.
How much time you spend in the lecture rooms will depend on the course you choose. Science related courses will have lectures, field trips, lab work and workshops while humanities courses (such as English History or Languages) will have some time spent in lectures but also a lot of free time to read more about the subject in your own time.
The library will be the ideal place to read, find out more about your subject and is the perfect place to work on your essays and coursework in a peaceful, quiet and distraction free environment.
Unlike school, you won’t have anyone to remind you that you have an essay due in next week...it’ll be up to you to get your work in on time.
You’ll need to meet certain deadlines and be aware of the exam time table but again your Personal Tutor and lecturers will be there to help you with any questions or problems you might have.
Your lecturers and tutors will give you feedback on your work and help you develop your skills.
Make the most of it! Your time at university will be a great opportunity for you to stand on your own two feet and learn a lot of new things.
Remember that you’ll probably be looking for a job at the end of it. Employers will be looking for transferable skills such as excellent communication skills, teamwork, problem solving, meeting and managing deadlines and self-motivation. All of these things can be achieved during your studies at university.
The main difference between school and university is the freedom. You’ll need to manage your own time, your workload and finances but there will be plenty of support at ¾«¶«´«Ã½ to help you do so. The freedom might be a bit overwhelming at first, but you will be surrounded by thousands of other students in the same situation and there will always be someone there to help you if you need it.
And remember, it’s not ALL about work. Your time at university will also be the time when you’ll meet friends for life, discover new places and try out new things. Clubs and Societies are all free to join at ¾«¶«´«Ã½ and they’re a great way to meet people and make memories.