Rachel is a final-year BA (Hons) Marketing Communications student here at Bournemouth University. Whether you’re stepping onto campus for the first time or getting ready to finish your degree, university is full of excitement and growth, Rachel has tips to make the most of your time at as a student. 

After enjoying the fun of my first year and the surreal feeling of my final year (so far), I’ve put together my top tips to help you with your studies during your university journey, no matter what year you’re in.

1. Get Out of Your Room: New Spaces = New Energy

Whether you’re in your first or final year, studying in the same spot can drain your motivation fast. Exploring different study and social spaces around BU can completely change your mindset.

Head to one of the libraries on the Talbot or Lansdowne campus for that studious atmosphere – I found that being surrounded by other students really motivates me!

Grab a seat in your favourite café for a cosy productivity session – there are so many wherever you are in Bournemouth to check out, but BU’s campus cafés are also perfect if you want something closer to lectures.

Studying with friends? SUBU has loads of open spaces designed for group work, and being around others can give you that gentle push you sometimes need.

A change of scenery can make a huge difference, sometimes all you need is a fresh backdrop to reset your focus.

2. Move Your Body: It Helps at Every Stage

Uni life can sometimes get overwhelming at both ends of the journey, whether you’re settling in or dealing with deadlines. Moving your body is one of the best ways to boost your mood and clear your head.

Whether it’s a beach run along Bournemouth’s coastline or a quick workout at the BU gym on Talbot campus, exercise can completely reset your mood and energy levels.

3. Organisation is Your Best Friend!

In first year, you’re suddenly juggling lectures, seminars, socials, and maybe part-time work – it can be a bit full-on at times! I’d recommend a diary or an app to track deadlines, to check Brightspace often (everything lives there!), and to check out BU’s Academic Skills Workshops.

Final year comes with a lot to stay on top of, but breaking big projects into smaller tasks has made it all feel much more doable. My academic diary has been a lifesaver – having every deadline mapped out in one place makes everything feel clear and much more manageable.

Good organisation now will always pay off later!

4. Ask for Help: BU Has Your Back

No matter what year you’re in, uni can get tough at times, and there is absolutely no shame in asking for help. Bournemouth University has so many support systems in place: lecturers, tutors, wellbeing services, academic support – you name it.

Top Tip: Reach out early! The people at BU are literally here to guide you, so make the most of that support while you have it.

5. Have Fun: Balance is Everything!

This is your time, whatever stage at uni you’re in.

Top tips for first years: Try new things. Join societies. Go to events. Enjoy Bournemouth’s beaches, cafés, nightlife and sunsets. Say yes to opportunities outside your comfort zone!

Top tip for final years (which I have to remind myself sometimes!): Don’t lock yourself inside for 12 straight months. Make time for friends, take breaks, and create memories alongside the deadlines.

6. Remember Why You’re Here

Whether you’re just starting or about to graduate, take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come – you’ve got this!

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