How to Successfully Navigate Your First Month at College/University
Whether you're starting college or university for the first time or returning for another year, the first few weeks of term are an important opportunity to set the tone for the months ahead.
Get to know your campus
Not only will you need to work out where all your classes and lectures are going to be for the term, it’s also useful to get familiar with the services and spaces available to you on campus. Here are just a few opportunities available to support you during your studies👇
🍳 Complimentary Breakfasts
Having something to eat in the mornings helps you to focus and concentrate on your studies.
Our complimentary breakfasts are available from 8.30am-9.15am in our Goodlyburn and Brahan Refectories and offer toast, cereal, tea and coffee.
🍎 The Big Project
'The Big Project’ was set up to help alleviate the impact of the current economic crisis. The project funds a range of food, toiletries and other essentials and is freely available to you, as a student, to help you cope with the cost-of-living pressures. You will find The Big Project in the Brahan and Goodlyburn reception areas.
This year, we are pleased to receive funding support from the Gannochy Trust and Perth and Kinross Council’s Common Good Fund.
🚻 Accessible Period Products
In our campus toilets you will find a range of period product freely available. In addition, a range of free reusable period products are now available on request for all UHI Perth students. This includes:
Menstrual cups
Washable period pants
Washable period pads
Simply submit an online request and collect within 7 working days (subject to stock availability) from our Customer Services (Reception) staff
🤫 Quiet Rooms
We recognise that prayer, meditation and quiet reflections may be performed in different ways within different faith traditions and beliefs. We have two Quiet Rooms on campus. One is located in our Brahan Building (Room 214a) and the other located in our Goodlyburn Building (Room 506). These rooms are neutral spaces which can be used by our staff and student population. When in use, to avoid being disrupted, please use the signage on the door to say engaged, but remember to indicate again when it is free for the next person to use.
⚽ Sports Clubs
Becoming a member of a Sports Club at UHI Perth is a great way to stay fit, meet new people, and unwind after a day of lectures. Our Active Campus Coordinator, Lindsey Brown, is always on hand to answer questions or take suggestions for new clubs. lindsey.brown.perth@uhi.ac.uk
💕 Wellbeing and Support Services
Being at college/university can be stressful at times. Many students experience issues which impact on their Mental Wellbeing for example feeling anxious, having difficulties with motivation or low mood, feeling isolated and alone, having relationship issues, struggling with irregular sleep patterns.
It is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and stressed at times and the wellbeing and support service have a range of support available including Drop in sessions, Wellbeing Support and Advice, Self Help Workshops and Self-Help Information. The wellbeing and support service can also make referrals to the counselling service.
You are welcome to contact us on wellbeingandsupport.perth@uhi.ac.uk and one of the team will reply as soon as possible. (Emails are checked Mon–Fri: 8.45am – 4.45pm)
Find ways to deal with the new way of learning
The method of teaching can feel very different from what you’ve been used to at school. Or if you have been out of education for a number of years, getting back into studying can be difficult at first. There is a lot more emphasis on independent study so keeping on top of things and having good time management will be very important in your first few semesters. The habits and strategies you learn in first year will keep you focused for the remainder of your studies. If you are finding it difficult to adjust to this new pace of studying, please get in touch with the Study Skills team as they have a range of help on offer to help you adjust 👇
Essential Study Skills
Organising workload
Planning
Note-taking
Reading techniques
Revising for exams
Memory techniques
Mind mapping
Essay and report writing
Referencing
Presentation skills
Learning styles
Core Skills
Communications
Numeracy
Additional Support
Dyslexia screening
One-to-one support
DSA funded Study Skills
Say yes to things and introduce yourself
As awkward and uncomfortable as it may be, saying yes and getting involved in things can make a huge difference to your first few academic terms. Remember, everyone is nervous and in the same boat!
Make an effort to attend the HISA Welcome Fairs and see what clubs and societies are on offer. If you’re not sure what you would enjoy, take part in any taster sessions and see if anything fits for you. Keep an eye on your emails, the HISA website and social media channels for details of welcome activities and events throughout September.
If you are staying in the residences or in a shared flat, make the effort with your new flat mates. Give everyone a chance and be respectful of different cultures and personalities
First year is a great opportunity to meet new people and experience a different lifestyle. Being open minded and kind will go a long way. If you see someone on the sidelines, invite them into your conversations
Budget your money and find free things to do
Making friends and having a newfound freedom may come with a financial risk. Saying yes to everything can cost money so be very mindful of your tempting student loan and don’t spend it all at once! There are lots of things you can do for free in Perth. Get creative with your new friends and each come up with one thing a week that you could all do together.
A few suggestions 👇
Walk up Kinnoull Hill
The Heather Garden, Norie Miller Walk and Sculpture Trail
River Tay to Luncarty Walk
South Inch and North Inch walks
Avoid rushing home
Feeling homesick is a common part of starting university, especially during the first few weeks when everything is new and unfamiliar. While it can be tempting to head home every weekend, giving yourself time to settle into your new environment can help you build confidence, independence and a sense of belonging in your new community. Staying on campus at weekends can help you strengthen friendships, get involved in university life, and create a sense of belonging in your new community.
Remember that it's okay to miss home, and staying connected with family and friends through phone calls or video chats can provide reassurance while you adjust. With time, many students find that the university starts to feel like a second home.
Don’t forget to rest
Starting university often brings a busy schedule packed with social events and new experiences. While it can be a lot of fun, it can also take a toll on your physical and mental wellbeing, leaving you feeling drained after a few consecutive days and nights of activity.
During these early weeks of term, remember to look after yourself. Building in time to recover, maintaining a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and taking care of your mental health can help you stay well and make the most of your university experience.
And finally, remember you're not alone
If you're finding the first few months difficult, please reach out for support. 💕 We're here to help. Contact: studentwellbeing.perth@uhi.ac.uk
