Starting university can be a very challenging and difficult time for many students. From meeting deadlines for assignments, to getting to know new flat mates to even getting used to doing your own laundry, there is always something that has to be done.  

Here are some tips that I have learned since I started university that I would like to share with you.

It can be tiring!

I wish I was joking when I say that university is exhausting. There is always something that has to be done. From my personal background, I was not used to cooking my dinner every day or keeping on top of my laundry while I studied in school. Because of this, I find it really easy to let things build up. When trying to meet deadlines, studying for a continuous assessment, or even planning to go out, it's hard to fit simple things like making a nutritious dinner into a busy day.

Try to keep on top of household tasks

To cope with the busy schedule of a uni student, I would recommend keeping on top of laundry, not forgetting about deadlines until the last minute and meal prepping dinners for days you have plans. Managing time efficiently is crucial when it comes to staying on top of everything.

It can be expensive

With the current cost of living crisis, there is nothing cheap about living as a student. The average student receives £485 a month from their Maintenance Loan, which falls £439 a month short of covering the average living costs. Unfortunately, it is an extremely uncertain time for many students because of the increasing inflation. Some international students do not even qualify for a Maintenance Loan.

^{The Pantry, a free refill station located on the Ground Floor of One Elmwood}

The Students’ Union are doing everything they can to financially help students during this time. To avoid stressing about financial matters, I recommend taking up a part time job for weekends or evenings. QWork is an amazing platform which hires Queen’s students to work at different events or jobs in the university; some are temporary, others permanent. I worked at many events during my first year and it also helped me to make lots of new friends.

Be prepared to push yourself!  

Starting university is one of the most exciting times of your life. There are so many amazing opportunities - especially in Queen’s - that you should most definitely make the most of. At first, it can be challenging to venture from your comfort zone, but the more you do it, the more you will continue to. It can be strange living with people you don’t know, but planning flat nights together can help you to get to know each other. If you enjoy helping out, there are plenty of volunteering schemes like Handy Helpers, which I participated in and really enjoyed.  

I would definitely recommend joining a club or society. With over 200 clubs and societies, there is something for everyone. Freshers' Week is a hectic week, but I recommend pushing yourself, you will get to know lots of new people and university may not feel as lonely in the weeks to follow.

It can get lonely

Starting university can be one of the loneliest times of your life - but don’t worry, that’s normal! This is to be expected, you have essentially started life in a new city where you may not know many people. You may miss your family and friends, but things will get better. Instead of moping around, think of the positives. It isn't often people are given a chance to build a new future, and many people wish for this opportunity. You are starting the beginning of your career, and along the way you will make many friends and memories, just have patience!

^{Going out with my friends the evening after we finished our exams! One of my favourite memories from first year}

You are about to make memories that will last a lifetime

For many students, university is the first time they will move out of home. It is also the first time for many to get a taste of complete freedom. You are finally on your own and you can arrange your free time the way you please, something every young person dreams of. There are no worries about throwing parties, waking parents up, going for a stroll at 4am, you can do as you please, when you please!

Find out more

The student experience and settling in

Cost of living in Belfast

The Pantry: Free Refill Station

Student Wellbeing Service

Sarah Geraghty Biomedical Science | Undergraduate Student | Galway, Ireland My name is Sarah Geraghty! I am a first year Biomedical Science student from Galway. I'm 21 and I feel like I have a lot to offer in the line of advice because I realize that a lot of people have a hard time settling in and making friends in university and that the expectations of “university life” don't always meet reality for many students. I live in Queen's Accommodation, in Elms BT9, and I really love it there and never want to leave. I am in the Biomedical Science society, and I really enjoy it. I also work 4 hours a week in Spar in the Student's Union, which really doesn’t feel like work to me as I’ve got to know so many people.