Starting university can be a life-changing event. There is a lot going on, and the early days can be really exciting!

On this screen, we will explore some changes you may face when you start your studies, and hear from students who have been through it already.

In the activity below, students share what is on their minds about going to university. What are they looking forward to? What are they worried about? Click on each individual to see their comments.

Priyanka, 23, Sociology

I'm going to be adjusting to the pace of higher education. I want to do well, but I have to balance academic work and socialising with my family life.

Emma, 18, Maths

I know I'm ready for the academic side of things. As a distance learner, though, I'm not sure how to interact with other students and academic staff. How can I make connections?

Luc, 17, Media Studies

Being a university student means I'll be more independent. I'm looking forward to being in charge of my schedule, but I'm a little worried about my budget!

Sophie, 31, Law

I can't wait to get involved in the Student Union! But first, I need to figure out who to contact, and what kinds of things are on offer.

Fatima, 19, Biochemistry

The career I've set my heart on requires an intense science background. I hope I can deal with the workload!

Nigel, 21, Graphic design

I'm about to start a work placement. I can't wait to show everyone what I can do! Now, to make sure I make a good impression...

These are the things some students think about as they start their first term. But what is on your mind?

In the activity below, we've listed some of the things that may be on your mind. Click on the 'This is a top priority' button and then click on all of the items which are most important to you right now. Repeat this process with the 'Quite important to me' and 'Not my main focus' buttons. Then click on the 'View summary' button to see your priorities.

Students say

At university, you see how people grow and develop. If you look back at yourself when you graduate, compared to the first day you came in, you see a very different person. It's amazing what a change it makes.

Law graduate

At Sheffield Hallam

Social media is an important part of student life. Check to see which social networks Sheffield Hallam University participates in and how you can keep up with the latest news.

For example, if you are on Twitter, follow the Uni and the Students' Union.

Here are some links to get started.
https://twitter.com/sheffhallamuni
https://twitter.com/shucareers
https://twitter.com/HallamWelfare
https://twitter.com/ArtsCultureSHSU

This is a top priority

Quite important to me

Not my main focus

Making new friends

Figuring out my new timetable

Knowing what's going on at my institution

Having time for my family

Finding the right place to be

Adapting to a new culture and lifestyle

Becoming more independent

Staying in touch with my friends from home

Getting off to a good start

Getting to know the new rules and procedures

Video

In the following video, students and graduates reflect on what concerns they had when they started university or college, and what helped them settle in.

Click 'Play' to watch the video.

Whatever is on your mind, there are things you can do that will help you settle in. See the 'Useful advice' pod to the right for some specific tips.

The new experiences and challenges you face at university or college will help you develop as a person, explore new things and discover what you want to do with your life. Remember, this is a time for personal growth and experimentation as well as for getting a qualification.

All too much?

If you feel overwhelmed by student life, don't worry – other students are probably feeling the same way as you. The important thing is to seek support from peers, the Students' Union, staff or other people around you. As well as general help and support there are specialist services available, to advise you on any specialist needs you may have such as extra learning support or helping you find fellow international students. Asking for help is a sign of strength, and there are lots of sources of advice and support available. If you don't see what you need on your institution's website, don't be afraid to ask a friend or lecturer for guidance!

In the following activity, click 'Next' to build up a list of different actions that can help you to settle into student life.

Lifelong learning

Useful advice

Make sure your social life doesn't take over your studies. If you, or friends, are struggling with alcohol, seek help from your institution, Students' Union or elsewhere. See the 'Resource bank' for some good web support.

If you are moving into university or college accommodations, leave your door open when in. It will be so much easier to make friends!

Go to the Freshers' Fair – it's an amazing way to find out what's on offer and meet people.

Get your timetable as soon as you can. Are there any clashes? Can you make all of your classes?

Get a campus map. There may even be campus tours to help you find the short cuts!

Introduce yourself to people you meet on campus – everyone's in the same boat!

Find out who else is in your subject area. Meeting other students is a great way to settle in more quickly.

Check your official student email every day. You don't want to miss anything crucial.

Now that you have had a chance to reflect on the early days, we will move on to consider what 'student success' means to you – and how you can achieve it.

Portfolio activity

Duration: 10 minutes

What strategies could you use to settle in at your institution? How can you keep yourself well – mentally, physically, financially, socially and academically?

You may wish to download and use the attached template to record your thoughts.

Portfolio