How To Help Yourself At University

“I’m a student! Get me outta here!”

I’m sure you’ve thought these words at some point in your student career – and if you haven’t yet, your time will come. How can you keep yourself sane, happy and healthy at university? Let’s see…

Take time out for yourself

For the more introverted individual, university life can be a bit of a strain. Something is always happening, whether a night out or a popular activity on campus. This variety can be fun and, when feeling a little lonely, very reassuring.

Still, don’t let yourself be overwhelmed with crazy parties, drinks and the freedom of getting away from Mum. Take at least five minutes a day to regenerate and make sure you’re okay.

But at the same time…

Be sociable

Push yourself into being sociable and meeting new people. Universities are full of different types of people so why not embrace new company while you can?

Find out what’s happening and when, ask the nice people in your lectures if they want to grab a coffee and talk to your flatmates. It’s true that others are probably just as nervous as you – so why not make the first move? You won’t regret it.

Societies are the perfect place to meet other like-minded students. Like playing guitar and want to meet other musicians? Join the music society. Want more support on your course? Join your course’s society.

Get a Job

Getting a part-time job is always a good idea as it gets you out of your room and a chance to get a break. Working is beneficial as you get a bit more money into your account every month.

Try to find something local and not too taxing. Staying within your field of study may be helpful in the future as it is work experience.

 Budget

Stressing about money is the last thing any student wants to do. Budget yourself every week, allowing enough money for food, books or supplies, plus a treat like a night out now and then.

If you learn early how to be money-savvy, it’ll be a breeze for your next few years. For example, use discounts, only take cash on a night out so you can’t overspend and keep religiously to your weekly budget.

A big part of budgeting is learning how to control yourself! Sometimes you will need to say no to the night out, have pasta two nights in a row or not buy that t-shirt you liked.

 Balance work and play

Every student wants to run off to the nearest club when at university. It’s natural.

Nevertheless, there is work to be done. Don’t throw £27,000 down the drain because you were too hungover to attend a lecture. Reward your hard work with a well-earned drink in the pub or dinner out with friends.

Work as hard as you party! And spend twice the amount of time in the library than in a bar.

Don’t forget you have a family back at home

University can get super lonely and knowing there’s a family waiting for or missing you at home is heartwarming. Keep some pictures in your room and talk to your good ol’ fam whenever you can. Be sure to make use FaceTime, Skype and phone calls.

By the same token, don’t forget about them! Getting used to a new life on your own is fun until you have to move back home and get a serious feeling of displacement. Family first!

Being an under- or post-graduate are some of the best years of your life. Just remember to maintain your own well-being and get that first!

Nikita studied English with Creative Writing at Brunel University London. Her loves include literature, travelling and writing. She is a spiritual soul and a bit of a wanderer. Stalk her on Twitter, Instagram and on her website! She writes for Inspiring Interns, which specialises in sourcing candidates for internships and graduate jobs.