10 Pieces of Advice from Students for New Students

Starting university for the first time is exciting, overwhelming, and sometimes a little nerve-wracking. You’re stepping into a whole new world – new friends, new responsibilities, and yes, a lot of new deadlines. 

But don’t worry, plenty of students have been where you are now, and they’ve got the tips to help you navigate your first year without losing your mind (or your favourite hoodie in the laundry room).

Here are 10 pieces of advice from students who have been through it all – the good, the bad, and the “why did I sign up for an 8am lecture?” moments.

1. Don’t Blow Your Budget in Freshers’ Week

It’s tempting to splash the cash during those first few days – there are endless events, takeaways with your new flatmates, and late-night trips to the supermarket because you forgot to buy milk. 

But your student loan isn’t bottomless, and you’ll quickly regret it if you burn through it too soon.

Older students recommend setting yourself a weekly budget right from the start. Apps like Monzo or Revolut are brilliant for keeping track of spending. That way, you can still enjoy yourself without having to live on instant noodles by November.

2. Go to Your Lectures – Seriously

It might feel like the ultimate act of freedom to skip a morning lecture, especially after a late night, but resist the temptation. Those sessions aren’t just for show – they’re where you pick up the knowledge (and sometimes the hints) you need for your assignments and exams.

If you really can’t make it one day, make sure to catch up on recordings or borrow notes from a course mate. Falling behind early can make the rest of the semester a stressful uphill climb.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up

Whether it’s asking a question in class, emailing a lecturer when you’re confused, or introducing yourself to someone new, speaking up will make your uni experience so much better.

Older students say lecturers appreciate students who engage and show interest. Plus, being proactive helps you make friends, get help faster, and even stand out for future opportunities. 

Remember: everyone’s in the same boat at the start, so don’t let shyness hold you back.

4. Get Involved Beyond Your Course

Joining societies, clubs, or sports teams isn’t just about having fun – it’s one of the best ways to make friends and build skills you’ll use for the rest of your life.

You don’t have to be an expert to get involved. Never played volleyball before? Sign up anyway. Interested in photography? The university camera club probably has space. 

These activities will make your timetable more exciting and give you a break from coursework stress.

5. Learn to Cook at Least Three Decent Meals

You’ll thank yourself later if you can whip up a few easy, affordable meals that aren’t just pasta with jarred sauce. Cooking for yourself saves money, keeps you healthier, and makes you a hero when your flatmates are stuck eating cereal for dinner.

Some student favourites? A good stir-fry, homemade curry, or a traybake you can portion for the week. Oh, and learn how to store food properly – nothing’s worse than throwing away food you forgot about in the fridge.

6. Look After Your Health – Mental and Physical

University can be a whirlwind, and it’s easy to let your wellbeing slide when deadlines loom. But your health is just as important as your grades.

Make sure you register with a local GP, stay active (even if it’s just walking to lectures), and keep an eye on your mental health. Many universities offer free counselling or wellbeing support – use them if you need to. 

Older students say one of the best lessons they learned was that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

7. Stay Organised from Day One

It’s easy to underestimate how fast assignments, readings, and exams pile up. Having a calendar – whether it’s on your phone or a physical planner – will save you from last-minute panic.

Write down every deadline as soon as you get it. Break big projects into smaller tasks and spread them out over time. Trust us, doing your work in manageable chunks beats pulling a 3am all-nighter while fuelled by energy drinks and regret.

8. Don’t Compare Yourself to Everyone Else

It’s easy to feel like everyone around you has it all together – perfect grades, a buzzing social life, and somehow time to hit the gym five times a week. But appearances can be deceiving.

Older students agree: focus on your own progress. University isn’t a competition (unless you’re literally on a sports team). Everyone’s journey is different, and your time at uni should be about discovering what works for you – academically, socially, and personally.

9. Take Advantage of Student Discounts

From half-price streaming services to cheaper train tickets, your student ID is like a magic key to saving money. Download apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans, and don’t be shy about asking if a shop offers a student discount – you’d be surprised how many do.

Even small savings add up, and it means you can stretch your budget further for fun stuff like trips, gigs, or the occasional fancy meal out.

10. Enjoy the Experience – It Goes Faster Than You Think

Right now, it might feel like you have all the time in the world, but ask any graduate and they’ll tell you: university flies by. Between lectures, exams, and late-night conversations with friends, the years pass quicker than you expect.

So, go to that event you’re unsure about. Take the day trip. Say yes to a spontaneous coffee. You’ll never get this exact mix of freedom and opportunity again, so make the most of it.

Final Thoughts

Starting university can feel like standing at the edge of a giant adventure – a little scary, but also full of possibilities. By listening to the advice of those who’ve been there before, you can skip some of the common pitfalls and make your first year a rewarding, unforgettable experience.

So, take these tips, make them your own, and remember: every student starts somewhere, and before you know it, you’ll be the one giving advice to the next wave of freshers.