Preparing for UK University

Every student aspiring to study in the UK dream of getting into a reputed UK university. Those who made it to the final level — CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) and UK student visa application deserves a hearty congratulation considering the competition for the seats. While you embark on a transformative journey on your academic pursuits, a few things need discussion and this article focuses on how you can prepare better for your first day at a UK university.

Go Through the Online Groups

Once you receive your confirmation letter via email or otherwise, go through and join the public and private groups of the university on social media platforms like Facebook. This helps you familiarise yourself with the faces that you will meet on the opening day. Initiate conversation with newcomers or if you wish to go one step further, start a conversation with the seniors as well. Gain information about the campus and the associated facilities that it offers, along with the location of those within the campus.

Pay a Visit to the Campus

Those from outside the UK or non-EU countries should visit the university in advance as this helps you familiarise yourself with the surroundings. Students often find it difficult to remember how to navigate through the university campus on the first day, especially if it’s spread over a vast area. Nervousness during the first day makes it all the more difficult to remember the details. Take a walk through the library, gym, bathroom and other facilities and ensure that you’ve got the paths figured out.

Check Your Timetable

UK universities often send comprehensive guides for freshmen year students along with the welcome email. The associated documents also specify your schedule for the entire semester as well as the names of the lecturers and professors. Print out a copy of it as it might become handy. Further, ensure that you note down significant details like the courses that you can take during the first semester.

Obtain the Student ID

Each UK university follows its procedures for issuing student identity cards. During the pre-registration stage, the university might ask you relevant details (like a photograph) so that they can issue the card. You might need to fill out an enrollment form during the first day. The student ID is a significant document, make sure that you wear it around the neck or keep it in your wallet all the time.

Don’t Miss the Orientation Day

Admittedly, participation in orientation day and associated events is optional at some UK universities. But, bear in mind that as an international student in the UK, the event offers a lot of information, which could prove beneficial. The event provides detailed sessions on the campus, the faculties, the rules and regulations as well as extracurricular activities.

A good night’s sleep can go a long way in overcoming the anxiety associated with the first day. It is a big day in your life and you don’t want to miss out on anything due to low energy. Students often miss sleep as they try to organise the things needed for freshmen day on the night before, which is a mistake you need to avoid.