Lecture Hall Etiquette 101

As a first year uni student, lectures will be completely new to you. It’s safe to say that they’re a far cry from your classic classroom scenario with probably 20 students.

It can be quite exciting, going to lectures for the first time – partly because you don’t know what to expect. However there are some pointers that you should be aware of when it comes to sitting in lectures.

Here are some top tips on lecture hall etiquette…

Avoid sitting on the end of the row

As tempting as it may be to sit on the end of the row for a quick exit – don’t do it! If you arrive early and they’re plenty of seats available try sit in the middle somewhere. You’ll only have to keep moving to let other students in who’ll probably give you major eye rolling and heavy sighs too. #NotFun

Save the snacks for after

You’ve not come to watch a movie so keep the snacks for after your lecture’s over. There’s nothing worse than trying to concentrate and take notes when all of sudden you hear someone chomping and rustling away on something which also smells pretty strong too. Ugh.

Have some respect

It’s not respectful or fair to leave any rubbish in the lecture hall. There are usually bins in the halls so just pop your rubbish in there at the end.

This feels like it should be obvious, but don’t keep your headphones in when at a lecture. Even if you’re not listening to anything, it looks incredibly rude. The tutor is here to help you; don’t insult them in the process.

Don’t be a seat saver

No. You don’t need to save a seat for your bestie. Of course sitting next to your buddy is fun but it’s really not necessary in a lecture and also quite annoying for the student who just wants to sit down.

In addition, sitting next to friends will only increase the chances of you getting distracted. Which brings us onto the next point of….

Don’t be a chatterbox

Don’t try whisper your way through the lecture. The last thing you want is to called out by the tutor in front of your fellow students – and even if this doesn’t happen, you’re still in the wrong. You can catch up once you’re done, okay?

Only bring your laptop if necessary

Avoid bringing your laptop to lectures if you can. You’ll end up tempted to browse through your social media and scan through last night’s club photos.

Remember that students behind you and even to the side of you will be able to see what you’re doing. If you do need to bring your computer, at least avoid typing really loudly.

Don’t be on your phone

You came to the lecture to learn, not swipe your way through all your Tinder matches. Keep your phone in your bag till you’re out. You’re only going to waste your own time by turning up and leaving without having taken anything in. Plus it can distract other students around you too.

It’s not story time

Lectures can be tedious, especially if the tutor talks a lot with little discussion. However, this doesn’t mean that you can take the chance to catch a few zzzzs. Arrive at your lectures feeling fresh and ready to learn. If this means setting your alarm earlier so you can have a coffee and decent breakfast then do it!

Lectures are part and parcel of uni life so make sure you give them 100%. Just enjoy them and use the time wisely to make notes.

Haleema Khokhar. also known as Kimi (a college nickname that stayed). is a journalism graduate working in the world of marketing and freelance writing. She loves animals, dance and a strong cup of tea. Check out her website and Twitter at @MyImpression_ you can also check out her personal Twitter at @KimiKhokhar 

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