TOP TIPS FOR SETTLING INTO UNIVERSITY

Friday 27-09-2019 - 09:41
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Starting university can be an exciting experience but it can also bring its own unique challenges: being away from home, budgeting, learning to cook and finding your way around campus to name a few.

Jakaya, our new Representational Networks Assistant introduces herself and shares her top tips for finding your feet at university:

Hi, I’m Jakaya an MA student at the University of Winchester and your new Representational Networks Assistant through Winchester Student Union. The purpose of my role is to stand as the facilitative voice for students just like you. I offer support to underrepresented bodies of students such as: International, Part-time/Mature, Commuting, Islamic, Afro-Caribbean, LGBTQPIA+ and Disabled students. As a member of more than one of these student groups I understand that there are some challenges and triumphs that come with each.

When first coming to university as a mature student, I was nervous about making friends and finding ways to connect with my peers who were often younger than myself. This anxiety was exceeded by my status as an international student. When I experienced these anxieties, my first instinct was to seclude myself as a means to avoid awkward situations. Through the support of Winchester Student Union in the form of societies and student networks, I was able to find groups of like-minded students who were dedicated to congregating with one another and creating an atmosphere of acceptance for all. Attending these meetings was a first step for me to make University my home away from home for 3+ years.

My advice for commuting students is to make use of every available perk when you are on campus. For instance the Commuting Students Network offers access to a Commuters lounge that offers basic amenities such as a refrigerator, microwave, sink, shower, and quiet study area. I also benefited from having more time to explore and get to know the beautiful city of Winchester. The lounge is open to students commuting more than 5 miles, for a cost of £3.

While commuting can sometimes be a difficult transition into student-hood, there are some benefits to it as well. Often commuting students are offered more flexible times for tutorials from lecturers, commuters often save money on student rent and they are able to upkeep their relationships with their local friends and family unlike students who move away for a long portion of the year. My advice is on those hard days, remember why you chose to study and remember all the people you have rooting for your success. Including myself and my fellow colleagues here at Winchester Student Union. We are Student led. Student delivered. And we want to empower students like you to find your voice and take charge of your university experience.

Winchester Student Union Advice Centre is here to support you! Get in touch by completing our Advice Enquiry Form.

 

 

 

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