{"id":7906,"date":"2025-08-27T11:58:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-27T11:58:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thisisfresh.com\/blog\/?p=7906"},"modified":"2025-08-27T13:37:16","modified_gmt":"2025-08-27T13:37:16","slug":"starting-university-everything-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thisisfresh.com\/blog\/2025\/08\/27\/starting-university-everything-you-need-to-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Starting University: Everything You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"

Congratulations, you are starting at university! You’re starting the next chapter of your life. To transition from high school or college and A-Levels to university is not to be underestimated. It is not only a big change in your academic life, but also in your lifestyle. It’s moving to an entirely new city in some instances. The culture shock can be massive, and some people are unprepared for this change. But don’t worry! You can prepare for this adjustment, you just need to know exactly what you are preparing for.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

What are some common worries about starting university?<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n
When starting at university, there are a multitude of things that can cause worries for some at first. Sometimes, when you consider all these factors before you even arrive at university, you can quickly become overwhelmed. Hopefully reading this blog will alleviate some of those worries. Here are just a few factors to consider and to understand that will help settle some of those anxieties:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
\n
Lack of familiarity:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b>\n
\n
As many people typically move away from home when starting university, the culture shock can be intensified. The mixture of homesickness, new surroundings and the lack of familiar faces can feel scary when you first arrive. But, once you have got past this initial change, you are left with the opportunity to explore and discover things about yourself and the world. The lack of familiarity can be the most intimidating part of university at first but can often be the most fulfilling aspect.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
Fitting in:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b>\n
\n
Much like with homesickness and familiarity, one of the primary anxieties people face when heading to university is the fear they won’t fit in. At home, people are comfortable. You may have been friends with the same group of people throughout your school life. So, meeting a bunch of new people and adjusting to many new personalities can cause a lot of stress and worry. The beauty of meeting these new personality types, however, is that you learn about new interests and passions, discover more about yourself, expand your mindset and discover new things that you enjoy.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
Newfound sense of responsibility:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b>\n
\n
One of the primary things you learn when you move to university is that you are responsible for yourself. Moving away can mean that a lot of home comforts, such as parents or guardians cooking your meals or managing your money, are no longer there. You now have this newfound sense of independence and responsibility for yourself. Whilst this can seem intimidating at first, facing the world head on provides you with the opportunity to learn new skills, become self-sufficient and prepares you for your life as an independent adult for years to come.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Things to prepare before going to university<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n
Whilst some things may be out of your control when starting university, you can begin to prepare to make for an easier transition and avoid being caught off-guard.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
Finances:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n
One of the most highly publicised and discussed issues facing students is managing finances. It can be difficult to juggle paying rent, bills, groceries, educational resources, if necessary, all while funding your social life. This is especially difficult if you have never done it previously. But if you are to make the most of your university experience and alleviate unnecessary stress, it is essential to understand how to navigate and balance your finances. This begins with arranging your student loan, following all the proper procedures and securing the sum you will receive. Once this has been done, you can begin to assess the situation and begin to budget and adjust to your needs. Some students receive financial help from parents or bursaries or might even take on part-time jobs to fund themselves throughout their time at university. But it is vital to know your standing and have your loans and finances arranged and agreed before starting.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
Living:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n
Where you live can shape your entire university experience, and at Fresh, we’re here to make that choice easier. While some students stay at home for convenience or to save costs, many are moving away for the first time and need somewhere that feels safe, welcoming, and connected. Our Fresh student accommodation offers exactly that, whether you’re looking for the buzz of a sociable setting where you can meet new friends, or a quieter space to focus on your studies. With Fresh, you don’t need to worry about hidden extras like bills and council tax, and all our locations are chosen by students in min – close to your campus, library, and city life. Plus, you can explore all our options directly through Fresh, making it simple to find a home that meets your budget and your individual needs.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
Personal:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n
Whilst it is important to assess the logistical elements of moving to university, it is also vital to be self-reflective and assess your own personal needs. If you know that you need specific accommodations, you need to know that these are accessible to you. It may be to do with an interest such as watching films or going to live music events and knowing this is possible. It could be a medical issue and registering with a local GP. It could be ensuring that your accommodation and university are accommodating to certain disabilities in some instances, such as ramps for those who require them. When making such a significant life decision, you need to make sure that you are well accommodated and protected. No one in any walk of life can succeed if their well-being cannot be maintained due to their environment.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
Social:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n
Finding new friends is one of the most exciting parts of university life. But due to things like social anxieties or even possibly neuro-divergent conditions, socialising in a new crowd of people can be overwhelming. One way to help alleviate these fears before arriving at university is to research and identify societies that may interest you, enabling you to find like-minded people with similar interests easily. Another option is to join social media groups for new students where you can connect with others before you even move, even possibly meeting your new roommate early, so you can begin to bond and make the initial meeting smoother.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
Education:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n
The primary reason for attending university is to progress your education, reach new heights and learn the knowledge and skills you may take on into your future career. It is for this very reason that you need to know that the course is correct for you, and that you are aware of where to find all the necessary resources to support you in your education. This might be finding pre-owned and cheaper textbooks online, knowing where the library is and learning how to study at a more independent level and setting up branches of communication between yourself and your personal tutor(s).<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
What to leave at home<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n
It will be tempting when you are packing up your room at home to take everything with you. The thought of ‘well I might need that’ will probably cross your mind a few times, but one of the biggest regrets for first year students is over packing. To avoid this, you should understand and consider what your university and accommodation provide you. You should assess what you definitely need and keep in mind you can always bring that shirt you forgot next time you visit home.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
You need to remain conscious of the fact that there might be limited storage in your student accommodation, plus it saves paying for a big moving van every year or for personal storage facilities over summer. Here are some prime examples of things you can leave behind at home:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
\n
Printer <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b>– Universities will provide printing facilities on site.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
Full kitchen set<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b> <\/b>– Whilst it is good to bring some essentials and some key bits of cutlery, you need to remember you will be sharing the accommodation, so there is limited storage in the kitchen, and you will probably end up sharing with your housemates (you don’t need 4 toasters and kettles in one kitchen!). <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
New books and school supplies<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b> <\/b>– Whilst it is good to have some resources ready, you don’t need every piece of stationary that exists. And if you miss something, you can always get it once you’re there.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
All your clothes<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b> <\/b>– Yes, of course, bring clothes, bring your favourites, make sure you feel comfortable and that the clothes you bring can make up many outfit options. But don’t bring clothes you never wear ‘just in case’ because there just might not be space, especially if you plan on adding even more to your wardrobe whilst at university.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What to do if you’re struggling with moving to university<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n
Whilst you can do everything to prepare and remain aware of all the pitfalls that may come with moving to university, it may not be enough, and your mental wellbeing might take a hit as you struggle with the adjustment. In these instances, it can feel isolating, and you can lose hope and feel as though university isn’t for you. But, before you make a final decision, it is important to explore all your available options for support. Here are a few key examples:<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
\n
Seek support from tutors<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b><\/li>\n
Use university counselling facilities<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b><\/li>\n
Speak to flatmates to see how they feel<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b><\/li>\n
Stay in contact with friends back home<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b><\/li>\n
Discuss how you are feeling with family members and parents\/guardians who can give advice<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/i><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
How can a Student Assistance Programme help you with sleep in autumn?<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n
When you have a flood of thoughts, concerns and anxieties causing stress, it can be difficult to get the right amount of sleep. This can in turn cause a further decline in your mental health. Using HA | Wisdom Wellbeing’s Student Assistance Programme (SAP), you can access expert support as a student by contacting the 24\/7 helpline, available 365-days a year. You can connect with one of our qualified counsellors who can provide expert advice, guidance and support. Using our SAP, you can access the Wisdom App, which includes a host of resources to support you and provide comfort to help you focus on improving your sleeping pattern and overall boost your mental wellbeing.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
Conclusion<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n
There is a lot to consider when moving to university. It is a big change, and it can be very daunting. But when you are prepared for the basics, the unexpected hurdles become easier to handle. By making sure you have the relevant information and guidance, you can succeed and make the most of your time as a university student.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Congratulations, you are starting at university! You’re starting the next chapter of your life. To transition from high school or college and A-Levels to university is not to be underestimated. It is not only a big change in your academic life, but also in your lifestyle. It’s moving to an entirely new city in some […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":7905,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7,10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7906","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health-wellbeing","category-student-living"],"metadata":{"_thumbnail_id":["7905"],"_yoast_wpseo_title":["Starting University: Everything You Need to Know"],"_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":["Starting university soon? Discover how to prepare for the big move with tips on settling in, managing finances, finding friends, and overcoming common student worries."],"_yoast_wpseo_metakeywords":[""],"_pingme":["1"]},"yoast_head":"\n

Fresh Blog