Arriving at university can be thrilling and daunting in equal measure. Remember, you are not alone. To help you hit the ground running, we’ve gathered some golden nuggets of wisdom from current students. From joining societies to exploring the campus, here are the top tips that will make your transition to university life smooth and enjoyable.

Join some societies

One of the best ways to meet people and make friends is by joining societies. Whether you’re into sports, arts, or something more niche (shout out to Sussex Musical Theatre Society (SMuTS) who got a specific shout out on Insta), there’s likely a society for you. Check out the societies page and visit the Freshers Fair to find ones that interest you. Joining societies not only helps you meet like-minded people but also enriches your university experience.

Explore campus (and further afield)

The library is a fantastic place to study, but there’s plenty of other options for when you want a change of scene. Looking for some inspiration? Sabrina and Aisulu recently shared some of their favourite spots over on Instagram.

We also loved the suggestion of finding a buddy to navigate the public transport system in Brighton and doing your first food shop together can make settling in much easier.

Reach out to others

Many of you may already be in group chats, which can be helpful for staying connected. You can also get active on social media to stay informed about events and meet new people.

One specific recommendation was to join the Language Cafe in the first week, as it’s a great way to meet people from different backgrounds.

If you ever feel homesick or nervous, don’t hesitate to talk to others – chances are, they feel the same way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the University if you need additional support.

Create a little piece of home

Personalising your room is a great way to make it feel more like home. Decorate with photos and items that remind you of home.

For international students, having familiar foods can be comforting and even better if you make a plan to cook with/for flat mates. Head to Taj at the Student Centre for a wide selection of produce from around the world.

Essential life hacks

And finally, a few tips that always make sense!

Grab all the freebies: Fresher’s week is a great time for grabbing freebies. You can also benefit from year round discounts with a TOTUM membership (formerly NUS Extra)

Keep up with deadlines: Make sure to follow what the University asks you to do and meet deadlines on time.

Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout the day to keep your focus and alternate if drinking alcohol to take the edge off hangovers.

Prioritise: Focus on getting the essentials first, then gradually get to the nice to haves.

Say yes: Embrace new experiences and say yes to opportunities that come your way.

Settling into university life takes time, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of your time here. You can also find more practical advice from the Students Union. Good luck, and enjoy your journey!