A Guide To University Life

Today, Maria of Miss Drifted Snow White is sharing her tips for university life. I thought this was really appropriate as so many of you will be embarking on this new adventure during September. Over to Maria:

I'm German and when I was little I decided I wanted to study in the UK. At the age of 23 I finally stood on the campus that would become my university for the next four years. Even though I'd already been in the UK for three years by that point I still had a massive culture shock coming to university! Here's my uni guide:

#1. Differences and Common Ground. This is probably the biggest thing you need to keep in mind. People have different reasons for going to university. While everyone has different reasons, you will all have something in common. You are all in the same boat of not knowing anyone so no one is going to say "I don't want to get to know you."

#2. Alcohol and Drugs. Most freshers have never lived away from their parents so there is a lot of settling in to do at the beginning. To make this easier, most people use the social lubricant of alcohol and drugs. Beware of peer pressure. If you don't want to drink more because you'll throw up with the next, then stop! If someone offers you drugs, say no! If your friends want to do this with their lives then that is their choice. But you don't have to - you are grown up too and can make your own decisions.

#3. Lectures and Tutorials. Go to them! Yes, your first year won't count towards your degree but good results here will increase your chances of acquiring a good placement should you be undertaking a sandwich course. Getting a placement is tough as there aren't too many employers offering it - the competition is high. So, do try and get the best results you can. You'll have to go to your lectures from year two onwards so you may aswell get used to it from the outset!

#4. Societies and Clubs. I personally believe that university is there to challenge you and to push you outside your comfort zone. There were so many things on offer at my university that I'd never had the chance to do before. I joined the hockey team (turns out I'm not good at hockey) and signed up for Jiu-Jitsu (turns out I was one of the best newbies in the region!).  Make the effort to sign up for clubs and sports you would never otherwise have joined.

#5. Money. Unfortunately, being a student will most likely mean you'll be broke! University is meant to prepare you for 'real' life so do get a part time job to see you through. A few ways you can look after the pennies: Withdraw some money for a night out and leave the bank card at home or with a non-drinker; that way you won't be able to spend more than you should! Get an NUS card for discounts at places like New Look, Topshop and Dorothy Perkins. Sign up for places like Student Beans - they offer great deals for students! Purchase a Young Person's Rail Card - this will come in handy for visits home and when travelling to interviews.

#6. Boys and Sex. This is a topic I could write a book about! Boys will tell you whatever you want to hear to get into your pants. That's just the way it is. There's nothing wrong with going with the flow but there's definitely nothing wrong with saying no either. But be safe; use condoms. The pill alone doesn't protect you from stupid STDs, nor the ensuing embarrassing jokes and reputation. I recommend you always invite a boy back to yours, rather than you go to his - that way you have your safety net and know exactly where you are. There are too many risks involved by going home with a stranger. Better to be safe than sorry, right?

#7. Safety and Security. From way too many personal experiences, I cannot stress this point enough. Be safe! You'll probably be living in a new city where you aren't aware of the 'good' and 'bad' areas. Make sure you have 999 on speed dial - I use key 'e' for emergency. Have a cab number stored in your phone too. Always keep a fiver aside to pay for a cab. There's really nothing more stupid than going home alone and risking your life to save the fare. Always let someone know where you are. On campus, lock your room. Always! Nobody is going to take it personally that you want to protect your belongings. Being in the same boat is a bonding experience but it doesn't stop people from stealing your belongings!

University is going to be your home for the next 3-5 years so make the most of it!

Much love,
Miss Drifted Snow White x