It’s a new academic year! To everyone who’s joining us for the first time, welcome – and to all our returning students, welcome back.
We thought we’d take this chance to share some advice to help you get off to a strong start this semester – and remind you about some of the support on offer.
Here are our five top tips:
1. Set realistic goals
Setting goals is a great way to keep yourself on track throughout the year, but the key is to make sure these are realistic. When your goals are achievable, you’re more likely to stick with them, make steady progress, and feel motivated along the way.
Check out Canvas for guidance on using the SMART method to set yourself clear goals.
2. Get organised early
As with a lot of things in life, when it comes to university, a little bit of prep can make a big difference.
Use this time to note any important dates related to your course, like exams or when assignments are due. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be able to clearly see what needs done, and by when. Then you can create a study plan based on this.
If you need help creating a plan, check out Canvas for tips from Student Learning Services.
3. Ease yourself in
With so much to adjust to (academically and socially), the start of semester can feel full-on. The best way to ease yourself in (or back in) is to start with small tasks, then gradually build your workload over a few weeks. This will help you avoid brain overload, settle into a new routine, and feel more confident as the weeks go on.
If you need a break at any point, check out the Loch View wellbeing suite.
4. Use the support available to you
As a Stirling student, you have access to lots of support to help you succeed.
If you have additional needs, get in touch with our Accessibility and Inclusion team as early as you can this semester. They’ll work with you to put personalised support in place to help make learning smoother. This might include assistive technology, teaching adaptations, or support from a dedicated mentor.
If you think you’d benefit from a personalised learning strategy, make an appointment with one of our Student Learning Services advisors.
Your personal tutor is also available to support you with any questions you have about your course.
5. Find a balance that works for you
Life as a student can get busy, but it’s important you still take time to do the things you enjoy. Spending time with friends is a big part of that. Joining clubs or societies, or even setting up a study group with classmates, can help you feel more settled and supported.
One easy way to take a short break without going far is to drop in to a Be Connected event on campus. You can meet new people, have some fun, and then head back to the library feeling refreshed, ready to continue your study session.