Becoming a Student

All students feel apprehensive when they are about to begin university study, mature students probably more so. You will be sent vast amounts of information and may feel it is impossible to remember everything. Don’t worry, you are not expected to. You will soon get a feel for what is important to you.

Before you arrive:

• Check your dates and registration times carefully.
• Sort out home arrangements as far as possible, including when and where you are going to study, arrangements for childcare and other people who depend on you, etc.
• Check your finances carefully: grants, benefits, tax etc.
• Make sure you have sorted out accommodation, if appropriate.

In the first few weeks:

• Familiarise yourself fully with your timetable and make sure that the modules you have chosen are compatible.
• Make full use of any mature student meetings or events as this is where you will meet other students in the same boat as you.
• Don’t rush out and buy all the books the lecturer recommends.
• Familiarise yourself with the opening times and layout of the library, for many courses this building is more important to you than your department, and second only to Cuths Bar.
• Find out where you can buy second-hand books.
• Find out if you are entitled to any extra funding or if any additional financial support is available.
• If you are beginning to struggle or feel a bit overwhelmed by your course it is important to remember that you will not be the only one who feels that way. Discuss it with your fellow students and with your lecturers and tutors – most of them don’t bite.
• Ask as many questions as you need to get the answer you require and don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help. By doing so you will find that you are also helping your fellow students.
• Get involved. Don’t be worried about being ‘mature’.