University vs. College or Sixth Form

WHAT ARE THE BIG DIFFERENCES?

Change can be exciting and also a little bit scary, so what are the main differences you can expect when you come to university?

Freedom

This is a big one. If you’re living away from home for the first time, then this will be a massive change for you – financially, socially and when it comes to responsibilities. But, remember, the majority of firstyear students will be in the same boat as you, so you’re not in it on your own. In fact, you may find that you figure it out together.

Top Tip: Have a go at creating a budget beforehand. You’ll have an idea of your student loan amount and accommodation costs before you start university, and you can estimate costs for things you’ll need every month, like food.

Independent Learning

Reading lists, extra research and thinking outside the box – these are things you can expect from university that you may not have experienced before, and giving them the time and energy they deserve will go a long way towards you getting the most from your degree.

Top Tip: Get started now. Pick the subject you’re most interested in at the moment and try doing some additional reading and research around it. This will give you a little flavour of what’s to come.

Top Tip: In the first few weeks, make lots of effort to get to know people on your course, in your accommodation and who are part of any sports and societies you’ve signed up for.

New People

Your fellow students at the moment are more than likely people who live in the same area as you, know the same people and places as you, and you may have even grown up with them. When you come to university that all changes, and you will meet people from all over the world, of all different ages and a range of different cultures and views. This is an exciting thing and something to embrace rather than shy away from.