The first day of university can be overwhelming for even the most extroverted of students. You are entering a new environment, meeting loads of new people and on top of that - trying to navigate subject enrolments, timetables and learn where everything is on campus. Starting uni is an exciting experience, but it’s perfectly natural to feel overwhelmed.
Here are some tips on what to expect during your first year of uni so you can totally smash it!
1. Being responsible for yourself is essential
Heads up… you will learn very quickly that you need to manage your time because no one is going to be on your back reminding you of things that need to be done. Before your first day, get organised a couple of days early with your bag, note taking devices (charged laptop or the good old A4 writing book), Go Card, water bottle and class schedule. This will help you feel prepared for your first day, so you have more time to soak it all up!
Are you a school leaver? Get more tips for moving smoothly from high school to uni.
2. You’re going to have to work hard in your first year of university
If you want that high distinction you must put in the work! Attend class every week and arrive at your lectures and tutorials ahead of time. There is nothing worse than turning up late to a lecture and interrupting everyone (including the lecturer) while you try to find a seat among a crowd which could be up to 500 new students.
Pay attention in classes, do the readings, take notes, ask questions, or even form a study group if that’s your vibe. Don’t forget that it’s important to strike the right balance between study and downtime. At the end of the day, you’re here to learn and advance your career but make sure you reach out to friends, enjoy your hobbies and take care of yourself!
Pro tip: Try using our Day Planner (PDF, 73.2KB) to stay on track.
3. Practice good study habits
Studying smart will not only benefit you during university, but after you graduate too. Some good habits include:
Use a calendar to track events and assessments. Whenever you get details about an event, put it in your calendar and use reminders — our brains can’t remember everything!
Take regular breaks to help digest the material and rest your eyes. Try the Pomodoro technique: study for 25 minutes, rest for 5 minutes and repeat.
Create a dedicated study space. Don’t study in a distracting space like your bed which will make you sleepy. A desk clear of clutter in a quiet space is ideal. Try using a study lamp and turn it on when you're studying —your brain could get used to the routine and switch into study mode when you turn on the lamp.
Check out these ADHD friendly tips and techniques to help make learning and studying easier.
Check out these 10 useful apps for students.
4. Lead a healthy lifestyle
This is one of our top tips! It’s easy to burn the candle at both ends in your first year - know your limits and when to say no.
Keep a healthy diet. University students are well-known for skipping meals or leaning towards poor dietary choices. Check out these simple tips on how to swap out unhealthy eating habits for healthier ones, and how to make delicious meals on a student budget.
Move your body. When paired with a poor diet, a sedentary lifestyle during your study years can impact more than just your physical fitness. Regular physical activity helps maintain a positive mindset, reduce stress, and enhance your mood. Allocating just 30 minutes for exercise amounts to only 2% of your day, yet it offers significant benefits. Learn more about how physical activity can help you manage your health while studying.
Don’t stay up too late — you need 8 hours of beauty sleep to power through the day.
Don’t forget to hydrate - bring a water bottle everywhere.
Check out these 5 must-know wellness tips for first-year students!
5. Download the UQ Nav app!
Getting around campus can be confusing at times, but there’s no shame in asking someone for directions. However, we recommend taking the time to explore and really get to know your campus.
Scope out all the secret study spots. Figure out where the best coffee is. Discover all the hidden shortcuts between your classes.
Pro tip: Use the UQ Nav app or Google Maps.
6. Check out the UQ Sharper Minds program
Sharper Minds is a package of resources developed by UQ experts for first year UQ Students’ physical and mental health so you can achieve your best at university. Visit their website for helpful tips on study, mood, physical activity, healthy eating, sleep, and social connection.
7. Get involved
An exciting chapter of your life is about to begin, so step out of your comfort zone and make the most of it. Engage with others—you never know who might become your new best friend. UQ offers a wide range of student clubs that cover almost every interest imaginable. Building positive social connections can be a fun and effective way to enhance your well-being.
Stay updated on social events by visiting the UQ Union website, where you can also explore a variety of clubs and societies. With over two hundred clubs to choose from, you're sure to find something that piques your interest. Additionally, consider joining your school’s student association for even more opportunities to connect. Check with your school to find out how to get involved.
8. Take care of your mental health
Embarking on your university journey is undoubtedly an exciting milestone, but it also comes with challenges that can impact your mental well-being. Learn more about managing your mental health while balancing the academic and personal demands of university life, and discover the resources available to support you.
Check out these Five healthy habits to look after your mental health at university.
Hopefully, this post has given you some things to think about in your first few weeks starting university. All the best for your first semester and welcome to UQ!