It’s the end of the summer holidays and A-level results are in hand, with thousands of students preparing for their next big step in education. But while university is an exciting prospect for some, it can be the source of anxiety for others. Here, the Charlie Watkins Foundation (CWF) shares five tips on preparing for university life.
Moving away to university can be both a fantastic opportunity for self-development and self-discovery, but it is important to make sure you are prepared for what is often the biggest leap in life so far.
These five simple tips will help make sure you’re on track for a happy and healthy start to your adventure.
- Research your new home
The chance to live somewhere new is an exciting one, but if you don’t know it well, then it is worth doing some research.
Taking the time to discover what is near to your campus, finding out where you can buy your home comforts or your favourite cup of coffee, is always a good idea. You’ll also be able to find the best way to travel home, too.
Universities offer or signpost students to mental health support services, so looking at the options available will help you should you ever need them.
- Chat to friends and family who have been before
Friends or family who have been to university before may have felt the same feelings you do now. The feelings of anxiety or excitement, letting people know how you feel can help overcome any worries that pop up along the way.
- Plan your finances
Finances are an important thing to consider when moving away, as university life will affect the money you receive and the way you get it. It is important to consider the prices of essentials like rent, food and study materials and how you will pay for them.
If you are worried about money, make sure you read about any additional funding you might be entitled to.
- Avoid thinking about ‘what if’ situations
Remember that even the most excited of prospective students will also have some worries – you are all embarking on a new step in your lives and most people will be in the same position as you. It is easy to overwhelm yourself by thinking about the ‘what if’ situations – so try to have an open mind and not put pressure on yourself.
This is an exciting time, but remember to pay attention to your mental health and put it first.
- Pack your home comforts
University is often among the most fun periods of life, but that doesn’t mean homesickness can’t rear its head from time to time. When packing your belongings, don’t forget to bring things that remind you of home, be they photographs, your favourite possessions, or even a homely recipe. They’ll all come in handy should you ever miss home life.
We are proud to partner with the Charlie Waller Trust (CWT), who have helped us produce a variety of transition guides about university life.
The guides are written by a highly-experienced mental health practitioner and are there to help vulnerable people cope with potential mental health challenges. You can read the transition guides here.
Those looking to support our working partnerships, such as CWT, and help improve the mental health of young people across the UK, can donate to us here.
