how to prepare for your first day of university + what to expect on your first day of university

Summary

This video offers comprehensive advice for university freshmen, focusing on preparation and expectations for the first day. The speaker, a third-year sociology student, shares personal experiences and tips, including checking for preparatory work, familiarizing oneself with the campus, and being punctual. The video also covers the importance of planning, introducing oneself to peers, and seeking help when needed. It reassures viewers that everyone is in the same situation and encourages a relaxed approach to starting university.

Takeaways

• 🎓 The video is aimed at helping first-time university students prepare for and understand their first day.
• 🏛 The speaker shares personal experience as a first-generation university student, emphasizing the value of preparation.
• 📚 Expect introductory lectures on the first day, which may include course overviews but not necessarily in-depth learning.
• 📅 It's important to check for any preparatory work or readings that might be required for the first week, even if it's uncommon.
• 🗓️ Utilize a planner or diary to keep track of important dates, deadlines, and notes from the introductory lessons.
• 📍 Familiarize yourself with your timetable and the locations of your classes before the first day.
• 🏫 Explore the campus and locate academic buildings in advance to avoid confusion on the first day.
• ⏰ Arrive early on the first day to allow time for settling in and to participate in any introductory activities.
• 👕 Plan your outfit the night before to reduce morning stress and ensure you're ready for the day.
• 🤝 Engage with fellow students by introducing yourself and sharing a fun fact to break the ice and make friends.
• 🆘 Don't hesitate to ask for help from university staff; they are there to assist and guide new students.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The main focus of the video is to provide guidance on how to prepare for and what to expect on your first day of university.

Why did the speaker decide to create this video?

The speaker created this video because they were the first in their family to attend university in the UK and they found it helpful to watch university preparation videos, hoping to help others in a similar situation.

What university is the speaker attending and what is their field of study?

The speaker is attending the University of Leeds and is a BA Sociology student.

What is the significance of the speaker wearing a Leeds hoodie in the video?

The speaker is wearing a Leeds hoodie to show their affiliation with the university and to prepare for the video's topic.

What type of activities can one expect during the first day of university?

On the first day, one can expect to attend introductory lectures, possibly participate in group introductions or icebreakers, and receive important information about their courses.

Why is it important to check for any preparatory work before the first day?

It's important to check for preparatory work to ensure one is not unprepared on the first day, as some modules might have readings or tasks to be completed even in the first week.

What is recommended for keeping track of important dates and events during university?

It is recommended to use a planner, diary, or academic planner to keep track of important dates, deadlines, and events.

Why is it beneficial to know your timetable and building locations before the first day?

Knowing your timetable and building locations beforehand helps in being punctual and reduces stress on the first day by avoiding confusion about class locations.

What should one do to be prepared on the day of the first class?

One should get up early, have breakfast, dress appropriately, and arrive early to class. It's also helpful to have a fun fact about oneself ready for introductions.

How should one handle being late to class on the first day?

If one is late, they should remain calm, enter the class quietly, and get settled without drawing attention to themselves.

What advice does the speaker give regarding timetabling errors?

The speaker advises to double-check the timetable before classes as changes can occur up until the class starts, and to have a backup plan in case of errors.

Why is it encouraged to ask for help on the first day of university?

Asking for help is encouraged because university staff are there to assist students, and they are knowledgeable about the campus and procedures.