- Firstly, always start revision early. I always used to scoff at teachers who told me to 'revise as I went', but it's true. After each unit you study, make up revision posters. That way you have all the posters ready for when you come to revise, and you've got the information down while it's still fresh in your mind. Also, discuss your lectures with friends from your course. If you can explain the lecture to your friends, then you can explain it in an exam.
- Take time out. Never work too hard! If all you do is study, and take no time out, who'll end up frying your circuits, and you won't be able to concentrate on your work.
- Collect throughout the year. For example, buy a separate notebook for each subject (not expensive notebooks, the £1/$1 notebooks that you can pick up in discounts stores will do). That way all you're notes are together in 1 folder, and if you want to revise a certain subject you can do it easily. Do this throughout the year, when store prices are less expensive, or wait for the sales. If you buy materials just before you start studying the prices would have shot up. Keep buying folders, notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters etc etc all year round, while their cheap.
- Stay organised. This most important thing you can do is have a system. Keep all your subject notes together, have a proper filing system sorted, keep everything you'll need for studying at hand. That way studying is that much easier and quicker.
- Print out all relevant notes. If you keep a hard copy of your notes, that way you can revise on the go, because you wont need to rely quite so heavily on your laptop/computor.
- Know how you learn. For example, I learn by making notes on everything I can, and constantly going over things. Sounds like a lot of work, but I know that's what works for me. So know your learning style.
- Set a budget. And stick to it! There's nothing harder than living it up at the beginning of the year, when you first get your loan, then having no money later on.
For your first year at uni, there are quite a few things that come in handy to have, and you should check certain things with your uni before getting it. For example, a fridge is a pretty cool thing to consider buying if you want more fridge space, but most uni residencies won't allow a fridge in your room. So check that out. Essential things like pens, pencils, rulers, rubbers, stapler, staples, hole punch, plastic wallets, folders, notepads etc can be collected throughout the year. Make sure you buy some kitchen supplies, such as sauceepans, woks, frying pans, lates, bols, knives, forks, spoons, utensials etc, because you may not notice them at home, but you sure notice them when you don't have them. Also, make sure to invest in cleaning supplies, and bulk buy things like bleach, disinfectant spray, washing up liquid, bin liners, cloths, sponges etc because that certainly comes in handy, even if it's for your own piece of mind. Remember bathroom essentials like shampoo, cnditioner, body wash, a flannel or poof, toilet paper etc, because theirs nothing worse than not having one of those! Get bedding (duvets, pillows, covers etc) because again, you don't realise how much you miss having a spare set until you spill something on yours! The best thing to do is look around your room at home and pick out the essential items, then do the same in the bathroom, kitchen, living room etc. That'll help you get a reasonable list of essential items to take with you.
Finally: Have Fun!!!!! Uni is an amazing experience, and honestly one of the best things I've done with my life. You get to meet new people, make your own way in the world, learn about something you're passionate about, and generally broaden your mind.
I'd love to hear from other first years, prospective first years, or university alumini. Comment below with your first year thoughts!
