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Study Skills- Transitioning to University

A guide to some skills to develop when transitioning to university study.

What's different about university?

Going to university is an exciting time but it can be a significant change from your previous experience of study. It may have been a while since you were in education, you may have studied in another country or you may be adjusting to the difference in expectations between school, college and university.

Challenges are normal as you transition through the various stages of your life but by having a good idea of what to expect and having the tools to help you navigate, the only way is up!

Student Minds have created the ​Transitions e-resource to help as you as you transition to university. The guide is embedded throughout with links and tips to help you make the most of your time at university. Their Know Before You Go guide is also a great resource.

At university, you'll be responsible for your own:

  • attendance - you'll have less scheduled classes than school or college and you're not usually expected to be in sessions all day but your lectures can have up to 200 students and then seminars with up to 30 learners. Your seminars give you the opportunity to ask questions and work through activities based on session content. 
  • learning -  your sessions will focus on a particular subject in detail and you may get the option to choose specific modules in order to  specialise further as your course develops. Course materials, session information and assignment submission details are all available via your Canvas space - take a look at the Canvas overview here. You won't have 'homework' as such, but you will have assignments and assessments to prepare for.
  • time management - you are expected to organise your own study and reading around your assignment topics. 
  • adherence to the rules and conventions of academic work - academic integrity is taken very seriously by the university and academic misconduct can have serious consequences but don't worry...use the menu on the left to guide you through academic writing, referencing, searching for literature and everything in between!

Why not try our quiz on transitioning to university below?

 

This short video takes a look at some student experiences of transitioning to university. 

References:

FutureLearn (2015) Making the transition to university. 9 April. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EQRJu8WzwE (Accessed: 15/08/2024)