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Adjusting to a demanding university workload can be challenging. Our recent graduate and 2024 Faculty Medal finalist, Fynn Haagen has prepared six helpful tips for you to excel in your studies!

Welcome to UCL and congratulations on making your offer! As a new student, transitioning from High School to University academics and studying can be a bit daunting. While at school regular assessments and homework assignments defined my learning experience, at university it was a lot more independent and self-driven.

While this may seem like a big jump to most new university students, UCL is an amazing institution to study at with lots of opportunities unmatched at other universities. I therefore want to share my journey and some helpful tips to make your transition more smooth, and to help you enjoy your time at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË as much as I did.

Your module tutors are friendly and there for you, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it!

Looking back at my undergraduate journey at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË, I want to start by emphasizing that even though much of the research and readings for your modules are on your own-time, this does not mean support does not exist. All of my module tutors across all 3 years of my history degree were always super approachable with questions and support, so do not worry if you ever feel lost or overwhelmed. My primary tip is don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice from your tutors.

They usually have office hours every week for you to pop-in, but you can always shoot them a quick email or set up a chat outside those hours if that suits you better. Whether it is discussing essay or dissertation ideas, help with applications, or even extra-curricular interests related to their fields, I found my tutors were always supportive, encouraging, and approachable for all their students, all you have to do is ask.

Don’t worry if you cannot finish all the readings set for a week!

While of course it is best to read as much of the set and recommended readings for your weekly modules, do not lose sleep if you cannot finish everything. I remember in my first year, during one week I had more readings than usual in addition to my first summative essays being due. I was initially very stressed about finishing everything, but simply raising this with your tutor is a good way to alleviate some stress. 

Attending the seminar discussions allows you to hear your classmates’ ideas, and might give you new ideas if you go back later to finish the readings. Your lecturer also usually highlights the most important readings for each seminar so if you focus on those, you will be able to contribute and find areas that interest you the most in that week’s topic.

Make the most out of the learning resources UCL offers.

Through the transition mentor programme, run by second- and third-year students for first-years, or the »Ê¼Ò»ªÈËriting lab, run by post-grad students, UCL’s departments offer a wide range of people you can approach for different study advice or help if you don’t want to or can’t meet with your module tutor. 

You are not required to attend every session set up by your transition mentor, but for me, they were able to provide a good anchor as I settled and transitioned into university academic life. Just speaking to another student who has gone through the same process as you, whether it is settling in as an international student, finding your study routine, exploring campus, or simply venting about any stresses you may have. Many students don’t always make full use of these resources, but they signed up to mentor because they want to help, so don’t be afraid to bother them if you want advice or just talk.

Set a study routine and schedule for yourself.

I mentioned that university can be a bit daunting as it is more driven by independent study than most high schools.  My top tip to make this transition easier is to set yourself a weekly schedule in which you allocate certain times to cover the readings for each of your modules. 

Finding what works best for you and how you study best is important. While some people, like me, like sitting down in one place for a longer time to do their studies and reading, others do better changing scenes, taking more frequent breaks, or studying with others in a group. 

My favorite study spot was the archaeology library due to the big windows overlooking Gordon Square and the little succulents on each study space which created a more peaceful atmosphere. Taking a walk in the small park outside the library was also a great and peaceful spot to take a break from studying. Finding what and where works best for you is important, so I recommend trying out different ways and exploring UCL’s numerous libraries to see what works best for you and where you feel most comfortable. 

Using the libraries and electronic resources

While my specialisation in China’s modern urban history may seem niche, UCL’s vast library resources mean you shouldn’t be afraid to explore anything that interests you. While you may be unsure of what area of your degree you want to focus on, UCL provides lots of amazing opportunities to explore different topics you are passionate about. No matter how niche they may seem, you can always find what you are looking for. 

As a member of the University of London, you can also access the resources of other institutions like the LSE, King’s College, SOAS, etc. if you need them. In my history degree too, places like the British Library or British Museum , both within a 10-minute walking distance from the department, were also great resources. The librarians are also super friendly and approachable, so if ever you can’t find what you are looking for, they’re super helpful.

Have fun!

3-years might seem like a long time, but it will fly by. So remember to enjoy your degree and make the most of it. You have worked hard to get where you are, so enjoy learning new things from academic experts and the large resources of UCL’s libraries. While university might seem daunting and perhaps even stressful, people are there to help so don’t forget to have fun and enjoy your degree.

Image Credit

Mat Wright ©