What's it like to be a university student?

University is a place where you develop invaluable skills and have the opportunity to access life-changing opportunities. You’ll meet lots of new people and make new friends, gain new experiences and study among experts who share a passion for your subject.

You will experience lots of highs at university, but you may also experience a few lows along the way too. No matter what your experience is, you can be assured that there’s a wide range of support and wellbeing services available to you. Whatever you’re feeling and thinking, please don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Here are a few thoughts from our students about how you might get the best out of your time at uni.

Receiving results and feedback

Séamus highlighted that receiving your work back from a tutor might be a low at first, as you might not get the marks that you want. However, he recommends using your feedback and applying this to future pieces of work. He also recommends asking your tutor if you aren’t sure about anything in your feedback. Measuring his progress through his improving marks has been a real highlight of his time at Leeds.

“I would tell myself and others starting university, not to worry over first few essays, assignments or practicals in your first year of university. What is important is learning the new material and enjoying university. So work hard, but don’t aim for perfection with your first few results.” – Séamus

Securing a placement

Securing a volunteering role

Seeking help when you need it

“If you don’t feel like you understand things, when you first arrive at university, that’s completely normal. Just give yourself some time, reach out to people and you will get in the swing of things eventually. And you’ll find what works for you.” – Katie