Starting university is an exciting time in anyone’s life, but it can also be daunting for new students. The pressure that comes with living in a brand-new place, making friends and even managing time and resources efficiently to study. You might be wondering how to make the most of your university experience along with the right balance to manage academic and student life. Well, don’t worry because I’ve got you covered.  Here are some tips to help you navigate your way through university life in Bournemouth.

Academics: University can be challenging, but plenty of tips and resources are available to help you succeed.

• Always go back to bright space (the online study platform) to brush up on what was taught in the class. We, as students, like to procrastinate things, so make sure you create a study calendar and mark your progress.
• Create seminar groups of 4-5 students from your class and discuss the main topics discussed in class. This will help you cover the key points you missed during the lecture or shed light upon something you either missed or perceived differently.
• The library is an excellent resource for research and study materials, and the university offers a range of workshops and tutorials on topics such as time management and essay writing. The Sir Michael Cobham Library at Talbot Campus is accessible until midnight during weekdays, and Weston Library at Lansdowne Campus is available for you 24/7.
• Don’t be afraid to ask your lecturers or tutors for help if you’re struggling with a particular topic – they are there to support you.

Travelling: Getting around Bournemouth is easy, thanks to the town’s excellent transport links.

• You can use More Buses, which offers student discounts on bus passes. The best way is to purchase an annual bus pass that grants unlimited bus travel within the pass routes for 365 days.
• Alternatively, if you prefer cycling, you can hire a bike from one of the many bike-sharing schemes in the town. The most preferred ones is Beryl which is a fun and sustainable way for students to get around.
• If you’re travelling further afield, Bournemouth also has a train station with regular services to London and other major cities. National Express is also preferred as you can get 15% off using the UniDays discount.

Socializing: University is a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends.

• Make sure you take advantage of the events organized by the university and student union. This is a great way to meet other new students and find out about the clubs and societies on offer.
• Joining a society or club is a great way to meet like-minded people and pursue your interests outside of your studies. Who knows you might find your new best friend.
• Bournemouth is a vibrant town with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to suit every taste, especially if you’re a student. There is always something going on in terms of activities and student discounts so meet your new friends for a coffee or a game of mini golf.
• Don’t spend the time outside of your classes sitting in your room. Try to engage with your flat makes in the common rooms like the kitchen or dining area. At the end of the day, it’s your flat mates whom you’re going to see the most so try to hang around the common area so that the conversation is not forced but natural.

Money-saving hacks: University life can be expensive, so it’s important to budget carefully.

• If you decide to go out for lunch or dinner, then take a friend with you and share your meal. The food portion is big enough for two people and almost all restaurants allow splitting a meal into two portions.
• Being a student make the most of the discounts availed to you by UniDays.
• Thrift shops are the best place to buy reasonably priced clothes like winter jackets.
• If you’re someone that loves to go out every weekend then you can purchase an unofficial A-list student card (@aliststudentcard) that will give you free entry to most events outside the university and discounts to restaurants.

Starting university can be overwhelming & challenging, but with these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your time at Bournemouth University. Remember to stay organised, stay motivated and enjoy the experience!