Transcript for Academic life video
You will find lots of help for you and your studies, from your course and your advisor to the Students’
Union and other University support services, we are here for you. As you start making friends on your course and
beyond, having someone to turn to is going to be crucial for you as you get into your flow. For now,
worry less about who that is, just have these connections in mind. Be willing to ask for support.
Universities are collaborative places, where you build upon each others’ knowledge and you lean on your
contacts for support.
Try and identify the signs of where and when you might need help as early as possible.
There is also a lot to be said for taking the initiative to work hard and trying to find the answer. Contacting your teachers
knowing that you have done the reading and put some thought into how you might be able to solve your question goes a long
way. Knowing what you are asking is a long way from shouting help at the last minute. Just know that everyone
is on your side. The people in these offices are not here to catch you out.
First, PhDs, Faculties, Divisions and Schools. There is a whole language unique to University that you
will soon pick up. But it is new for everyone, so you will learn it together rather than on your own.
One of the most powerful ways to make sure you are learning what you need is to search for what is out there.
Make sure you attend lectures and seminars and if you cannot, try
and access the materials via podcasts and online resources. Go to the office hours of your advisors and make an
effort to get to know and work with the other students on your course. At the end of your years here, it will definitely pay off. Your hard
work is what got you here and you should give yourself the credit you deserve.
Once you are here, you will be supported to take your academic work up a level. Reading, writing and designing
at University are meant to challenge you. Remember that you are meant to be learning and growing whilst you
are here. Universities are all about contributing to our understanding of the world. Your
perspective and your understanding are key to us adding to the body of knowledge in your subject. We are going to
learn from each other.
Making the jump to university studies can be a challenge but it is one that we will take together. There is an extensive
amount of support offered by the University. With regular workshops, drop-ins and a variety of staff to help, there is a helping help reaching out any time you need it. It is normal to feel stuck and unsure when
adjusting to the academic requirements of university, but taking advantage of the support that the University offers can really help ease this pressure.
Remember, you are not alone and every student will feel this way at some point. With a bit of practice
and support, completing your assignments and exams and adding to what you all understand in your area will become
second nature to you.
