Mistakes I Made in First Year

Mistakes I Made in First Year (So You Don’t Have To)

Let’s face it: nobody has the perfect first year experience. Whilst first year can be exciting and spontaneous, it’s also easy to get caught up with the day-to-day chaos of being a first-year student. I had a great time in my first year, but that isn’t to say that I didn’t make some mistakes too. So, learn from my lessons and don’t repeat my first-year mistakes!

I didn’t know how to cook much

When I first came to university, I didn’t have any recipes memorised that I could make quickly and inexpensively. This meant that I was teaching myself how to cook as well as adjusting to all the changes going on in my life. If I had been clearer about what I wanted to cook and when, the transition could have been made that little bit easier. So, I would recommend having 5-7 easy and quick meals mastered before you arrive at university. This will also mean that you are shopping for food more intentionally which should reduce your spending!

I should have gone to more events

As a first-year, I also wish that I had taken advantage more of the free events in my accommodation! Your accommodations have a programme of fun, free events that are open to all students in halls, and they range from LEGO flower-making to Vegan Street Food! Equally, I wish I had taken advantage of student discount apps earlier, as most major retailers offer students at least 10% off for students. 

I wouldn’t rush into second year housing 

It’s easy to rush into renting a house or flat for second year. Many students, including myself, rush to decide where they are living next year and who with despite having only been at university for a month or so. However, there are always lots of properties available to rent throughout the year, so it’s important to truly get to know your prospective housemates first and settle on a property that truly meets your needs. 

I would utilise lecturer’s office hours 

Whilst first-year often doesn’t count towards your overall degree classification, it’s the time to learn how to write to university standard and gain a solid foundation in your chosen subject. I can’t recommend enough going to the office hours of your lecturers. This is your time to get to grips with the material and ask more specific questions, as well as bond with your course tutors. 

I wouldn’t compare my experience to others

Lastly, an important mistake not to make is comparing your university experience with anyone else’s. Particularly on social media, it’s easy for people to show only the highlights of their experience. However, whilst it seems like someone is having a great time, this isn’t always the case. Focus on making the best of YOUR situation, and I’m sure you will enjoy university even more. 

Written by a Guild of Students Residence Life Assistant.