STUDENT TIPS

STUDENT TOP TIPS

Students from both unis give you the benefit of their experience...

Jonny Mumby, International Relations, 3rd Year, NTU

First thing I’d say is turn up to uni - that’s the most important thing to do. It’s enjoyable and that’s the best way to make friends and form relationships with your lecturers. If you don’t go, you won’t get that. For Freshers, my advice is to talk to everyone. It’s about going with the flow and meeting as many people as possible. Everybody is nervous, everyone is on the same boat, and that’s the most exciting part. I don’t go clubbing that much, so my best advice is to explore the city, find your favourite cinema, your favourite place to eat, shops you like and stuff to be interested in.

Jake Longhurst, Mechanical Engineering, 3rd Year, UoN

Without a doubt, the best thing to do is get yourself thoroughly involved in university life, whether that’s with sports, media, fashion or something else completely random! All the best memories I’ve made at university, and the best friends I’ve found, have been through the societies that I’ve joined. I’ve had so many amazing opportunities put my way by virtue of the groups I’m now a part of. It goes without saying that you should definitely still attend your lectures and do your work, but there’s a reason people say these years can be the best of your life, so go out and make the best friends and best memories of your life.

Roxann Yus, German and Politics, 3rd Year, UoN

Moving from the middle of nowhere to a city as vibrant as Nottingham comes with its risks and benefits. You’re met with loads of people who finally share interests with you, but it’s easy to forget that compatibility doesn’t rely on one or two things. I was too fixated and excited about what was on paper and forgot that, despite the cliché, vibes are most important. But vibes must be met with some exciting exploration of your new city too; I recommend making your own Google map of places you’d love to visit - and not just clubs and bars, which is what most first years fixate on!

Kirke Viira, Journalism, 3rd Year, NTU

Check the university website - there are so many events going on. I went for a tour around Nottingham where I met people. There are board game evenings, film nights, brunches and loads of events that don’t include partying all the time. If you haven’t met many people during Freshers, don’t stress about it! Freshers is just a week, you always have a chance to meet people. There are so many cool cafes and bars around Hockley, try out new places and after your university experience you can say you’ve been to different spots in Nottingham - not just Spoons!

Archie Wood, Economics, 2nd Year, UoN

One of the best pieces of advice I can give to those starting university is to go in with the “just throw yourself into everything” attitude. This piece of advice lends itself to meeting new people, joining clubs, societies and sports teams, as well as exploring the city. When starting university, it feels like you’ve just been chucked into the middle of the ocean, but trust me, everyone is on the same boat and in the same ocean. So, not being afraid to introduce yourself to everyone you meet, or joining a society that you’re passionate about, can be the best thing to do.

If you want unforgettable experiences, some of my favourite places to go out are Rock City, Rescue Rooms, Ocean and, of course, house parties! What has made my experience in Notts so unique is the people here. The city vibes are incredible; for a small city it has a lot to offer for everyone. The best advice I can give you is to know how to save up for a rainy day. Do not leave uni work until the last minute because everyone will do the same and the libraries will be full, and make as many connections as you can because it will be worth it in the long run!

Hillary Stone, Fashion Management, 3rd Year, NTU

Number one tip on how to make friends is to go to pre-drinks, because you’ll meet and go out with new people. Socialise with your flatmates - don’t stay in your room the whole time! Join Facebook groups before you come to uni; your house group chat, your course groupchat, and don’t forget societies. These are really easy and helpful ways to meet new people. If you’re into clubbing I would suggest you try Pryzm, the NTU Students’ Union and Unit 13. Just put yourself out there and live it up!

Dylan Tejada, Media Production, 3rd Year, NTU

How to have the best Freshers experience? I’d say push yourself out there and meet people, make friends! In my final year I wanted to be able to look back at university as the best years of my life and they genuinely have been, because I encouraged myself despite not always being confident. University is about taking advantage of the time you have with people and the opportunities you’re offered to create memories and live the best experiences. One bit of advice is do not take it for granted - work hard while making sure you have a chance to relax and spend time with your friends.

Cat Jordan, French and Politics, 4th Year, UoN

While it’s so important to be open-minded and friendly when you come to uni, my best advice is not to feel like you have to be friends with everyone you meet! I think there’s a lot of pressure to spend most of your time with your flatmates, and while it’s important to get to know them, if you don’t gel with them as much as you would other people, remember that everyone on campus is looking to make new friends. Whether that’s joining a society, meeting coursemates, or even knocking on the doors of other flats in your hall, there’s always new people to meet. So if you don’t find your lifelong friends in the first few weeks, don’t be discouraged!

Megan Atkinson, Broadcast Journalism, 3rd Year, NTU

My best advice would be to budget. When I was a Fresher I spent almost £1,000 in the first two weeks! Find things to do outside of uni that make you feel more integrated in Nottingham; try some sports, see live gigs, maybe find a part-time job in a local cafe. Be part of the city! The best places are the ones hidden away. Bodega is my favourite hang-out spot; there’s always people to talk to, great beer and an exciting gig going. Hockley also has top cafes and little vintage shops. Take every opportunity you can to explore, speak to people and make Nottingham a home from home.

Dom Allin, 3rd Year, History, UoN

First year is daunting. Leaving the comfort of home, school and friends for a new beginning… I was petrified, and I’m guessing you might be a little shaky yourself. But this is my advice to help you have the best experience - when it comes to drinking, know your limits and remember that you don’t need to prove anything to anyone. Also, be aware that friendships can change quickly in first year, and you might find your group a little later on in the academic year. You will find like-minded people, and the best way to do so is join as many societies as possible!