Starting university: a guide for students
It takes time to adjust to new surroundings, especially if you’ve lived in the same place all your life.
Get to know one area at a time and ask if any of your new friends want to join you - shared experiences are good for forming friendships. See if you can find a place you can go for some peace and quiet, like a park or courtyard; in every city or town there are places away from the hustle and bustle - you just have to know where to look.
Your uni should provide you with guides to the local area and information about public transport links. You can also do your own research online to find out what’s on offer.
In general, students tend to fall into one of two categories:
The Optimist
You may be excited about getting to know a new town or city. It’s an adventure.
When setting off exploring, make sure you take necessary precautions, keeping valuables out of sight, and see if you can find a city map (you can’t always rely on having a phone signal).
By practicing personal safety with your belongings when you’re out and about and being cautious, you can enjoy the experience and have fun discovering new things to see and do.
The Worrier
You may be worried that something bad might happen if you go out - that you’ll get lost, feel unsafe or not be able to use the public transport.
Most of this anxiety can be reduced by planning. It can be helpful to explore with a new friend to begin with, and maybe let people know you are going out too.
Look after your belongings and yourself when you’re out, but also try and enjoy exploring your new environment. It can be helpful to practice a mantra before you leave the house each time - “have I got my keys/phone/money/mask.”
If you are really anxious, keep a small list of phone numbers on you that you can always call for help if you were to ever lose your keys or money.
Resources
Was this article helpful?
Your feedback helps us create better content so if this article helped, please leave a like below and let others know.
The Charlie Waller Trust
The Charlie Waller Trust is a registered charity in England and Wales 1109984. A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales 5447902. Registered address: The Charlie Waller Trust, First Floor, 23 Kingfisher Court, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 5SJ.
Copyright © 2024 The Charlie Waller Trust. All rights reserved.
What we offer
Support us
Information
Donate