Our students and specialist staff have come together to think about the best advice we can offer to help get you ready for university. The resources on this page will help you to consider your next steps to prepare for your time at Manchester. You will find out about support available to you and some practical steps you can take to get ready.
No matter your background or the path you took to get here, we can all now proudly call ourselves a community with a common bond; a shared experience that connects us all.
A common bond of being a student at Manchester recognises that there are differences, but each individual voice is needed to shape this community. Whether it is work or play, each of us has a role to play in shaping that community and ensuring it is inclusive and supportive. Whether you are nervous, excited or somewhere in between, we are here to reassure you that your feelings are valid. Everything in this resource is made by students who have been in your position, with different university experiences, to share tips and guidance they would have found helpful when they started university.
You will be expected to know the basics of how the University works. Whether that is the way our academic work takes place or the way we treat each other. The University will make sure you have access to all the information you need but do take the time to read over it and make sure you understand it, it will definitely make your life easier.
It is important that our community have a healthy understanding of consent. It is easy to think of it in terms of our romantic relationships, but it is something we use every single day. Whilst consent can be a simple 'yes means yes' and 'no means no', it can be more complicated in real life; we must take into account other people's experiences and values.
Whilst we are a community we are also unique individuals. As well as looking out for others, you need to keep an eye on yourself. We have all found the start of university really exciting, but it has its bumps, and feeling when those bumps are happening and even more importantly, knowing how you can begin to deal with them is going to be key. It might be work, money or your health, physically and mentally. It might be something you have not experienced before or something you brought with you. It might be a feeling that happens right away or creeps up on you as the semester moves along, this year or next. It does not matter. It just matters that you know you are not alone and you have got the whole community with you.
An alternative guide to freshers
In this podcast the Library Student Team discuss their experiences as students, some of which you might not hear so much about, including living at home, not drinking, juggling part-time work, and how your relationships with friends and family may change. Alternatively, read a transcript of this podcast on our blog.
100 Days of University
In this podcast, the Library Student Team discuss the blogs they have written, highlighting practical steps for the first 100 days of university. They share their experiences from three different faculties, offering their authentic experiences to provide insight into into university life. Alternatively, read a transcript of this podcast on our blog.
Blogs
◻ 100 Days of University: A guide for humanities students
◻ 100 Days of University: A guide for science and engineering students
◻ 100 Days of University: A guide for biology, medicine and health students
There are lots of services you will come into contact with at University. Here are some of the services available that might be helpful to be aware of and keep in mind as the year progresses.
There are ResLife advisors (RLAs) at every Halls of Residence. Each RLA is a post graudate student or a member of staff at the University. They are there to help you and you can find out more about the ResLife team at your halls at the link above.
Counselling, mental health and wellbeing
If you’re having a difficult time there is lots of support available to you including, a 24 hour help line, one to one sessions, workshops and group sessions. Find out more on the Counselling Service website.
Disability Advisory and Support Service (DASS)
Contact DASS if you received support at school, such as extended time in exams, or special equipment etc. DASS can help with practical support, equipment and advice. Get in touch with them early so everything is in place for when you start your studies.
This Student Support website lists all the support available at the University. It’s a good site to bookmark and refer back to in the future.
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. We have a range of support available, which we are always developing based on what students need. Whether you need career advice, wellbeing support or help with course information, the Hubs team based in our new student support hubs will be able to point you in the right direction.
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. Your individual differences provide impactful contributions to not only your course, but the university as a whole.
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 hand 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.
Take control of your learning at university and let our resources guide you through your next steps. Read some ‘top tips’ from current students, who have all successfully made the leap to higher education.
Strategies for effective learning
This guide will provide you with some tips to support studying strategically, as well as give you techniques to check your understanding of the material you've learnt.
At University you will need to work alongside new peers, and group projects can often be challenging without the familiarity of old friends. Let our Library Student Team take you through their ‘top tips’ for groupwork.
The Library Student Team discuss some of the assessments they have faced and how they went about tackling them.
With the freedom and independence of university life comes the added responsibility of the jump to higher education, understanding your new surroundings and thinking about where you want your studies to take you. To help you get prepared, our students share their expertise on managing the new workload, reflecting on their goal setting and challenging their thinking about imposter syndrome and the jump from college.
Our students reflect on how they manage their time, adjust to their workloads, dealt with procrastination and share some tips and further resources.
Our interactive Goal Setting resource is a chance to consider how all the pieces of university life can fit together to make your own unique picture of where you want be.
Imposter syndrome
In this podcast the Library Student Team discuss Imposter Syndrome, how to recognise it and what to do about it.
Alternatively, you can read a transcript of the podcast on our blog.Throughout your time at The University of Manchester, we will support you to develop your digital skills and confidence to help with your studies and prepare you for your future career.
Developing your digital skills can enable you to make the most of your time at University and could even boost your degree result. For example, they can help you to analyse information, design solutions to problems, organise your thinking and influence others.
Being able to use technology effectively is frequently listed as one of the top graduate skills sought by employers. Most jobs involve using technology to do the role more effectively or efficiently. At Manchester we will help you prepare for the future and provide you with the opportunities and the support you need.
Whether you are new to the city or this is where you have always called home, you can now proudly call yourself part of our community. Communities are places where we look after each other and that includes looking after ourselves. Manchester is a vibrant city full of life. Settling in might seem overwhelming at first but you are not alone.
Whether you are moving into halls or living elsewhere and travelling in, this is a city where opportunities are endless and your university experience will definitely be one that you do not forget. Everyone you meet has their own unique experience but we are all connected as University of Manchester students. It might take some time and effort, but you will find people who make your experience here exciting, positive and fascinating.
The University offers a range of societies and opportunities allowing you to meet people whilst doing the things you enjoy, feel connected and gain confidence speaking to people. You are definitely not alone in this. There are a whole range of programmes that are on offer that help you feel like part of the city and connect with people from the big to the small, formal and informal. You can join in with on-going programmes or launch something of your own. The city and your university are here for you to explore and change.
There are practical things you will need to figure out, with our help, such as things related to money, studies or your health as well as making sure you know the values we try to uphold, whether awards like Stellify, or exploring Six Ways to Wellbeing, volunteering or joining a society through the amazing Students’ Union, there are lots of ways in. So, give yourself some time to reach out to what feels interesting and helpful.
Finding joy as a student
In this podcast the Library Student Team discuss how to find joy as a student. Coming to university can be an exciting new adventure, but also comes with stress and expectation. The Library Student Team discuss their experiences of this, and offer advice on how to look after your mental wellbeing. They also share their favourite ways to find moments of joy being a student in Manchester, whether it's joining a society or making the most of the many things the city has to offer. Alternatively, you can ready the transcript on our blog.
No singular student
In this podcast, the Library Student Team share their unique experiences as students at Manchester, including perspectives on commuter life, neurodiversity, caregiver responsibilities, mature student challenges, religious backgrounds and more. Alternatively, you can ready the transcript on our blog.
Every year thousands of Manchester students get involved in their local, national and international communities through volunteering. They learn new skills, make friends, feel good by helping others and get to explore Manchester. Some also have the chance to explore further afield with Manchester’s overseas volunteering programme! Whatever you study, whatever your interest, there’s something for you. The University provide lots of help to get involved, including lists of opportunities with local organisations, support for student projects and one-off taster opportunities to try. Visit our website for more information
Watch the volunteering video
Listen to students talk about their volunteering experiences.
Explore current volunteering opportunities.
Our amazing Careers Service is the place to go if you need to balance part time work alongside your studies. They can also help with internships and employment after you graduate.
Follow the@uomcareers on Instagram for the latest vacancies, news and advice.
Here you can find lots of helpful advice about applying for jobs, starting your career and gaining experience.
Once you’ve registered as a student, you’ll be able to activate your CareerConnect account. This is where you can find job vacancies, employer events, appointments and more.
Part-time work is an excellent way for you to earn extra money and gain some useful work experience while you study. Hear from our careers advisors on how to get started:
Navigating relationships at University is both exciting and challenging. It’s a time filled with potential for making lasting connections, but it can also feel overwhelming amidst the backdrop of a world in flux. From the climate crisis to political turmoil and rising living costs, finding joy can sometimes feel like a distant goal.
Approach all relationships with a healthy mindset, focusing on your personal growth. Take time to tune in with yourself and understand what you want and create relationships built on respect, trust and communication. Difficult experiences are always bound to come up but remember to seek support if needed.
Boundaries are crucial; they define what is acceptable and comfortable for each individual. Set and clearly communicate your boundaries to maintain a healthy relationship dynamic. Openly expressing boundaries gives others the opportunity to understand and respect our limits. It is essential to remember that everyone’s boundaries are unique and they can change over time. Sometimes it is just a matter of having a chat with someone and checking this.
At University you are exposed to so many different people, languages and cultures and it can be overwhelming navigating this world of relationships. Just remember to have high standards for how people should behave with you and exercise those boundaries yourself.
Remember, friendships may naturally change over time, but that’s okay. Be open-minded and welcoming to new connections that come your way. Seek out communities that align with your interests and values; these can be a source of stability and joy amid the turbulence.
In these turbulent times, finding joy in relationships and within yourself can feel like a challenge. However, by staying true to your values, respecting boundaries, and seeking support when needed, you can navigate university relationships with confidence and build long—lasting friendships and support networks.
Your wellbeing is important and we want to make sure that you feel supported while at University. We’ve put together a collection of resources to help get you started.
A central place for you to access support services, resources to support your day-to-day wellbeing and find answers to common queries
You can seek support from a specialist, confidential advisor or report an experience through Report and Support.
Specialist and trauma-informed support for safeguarding and supporting students experiencing a range of complex and challenging circumstances.