[krisbolton]

Hello there. Some random bits that I found helpful: 1) start assignments as soon as they're given (or at least fully understand what is expected so you can plan time), then you won't be rushed and your work will be high quality. 2) learn how to write academically - sure, you know how to write but unless you've done it before you probably don't have the experience of condensing multiple pieces of referenced material into a paragraph. There will be books on this in the library. This goes hand-in-hand with achieving high grades, if you understand what a lecturer expects to see, you can do well. If you find yourself working hard and then getting a mediocre grade, its because you haven’t understood what’s expected. 2.1) visit the library and see what workshops they have on writing, referencing, research and any other university skill – take those! 3) learn how you learn, or at least actively use multiple methods if you’re unsure. Watch videos of topics covered in your lectures, read books and write notes from the books (actually use those little quizzes at the end of chapters to test your knowledge and work on areas of weakness), write flashcards and use them. 4) Read ahead on areas you think you might struggle with or areas you’ve not been exposed to before (you don’t know if you’ll find it hard and ‘waste time’ grasping the basics be under pressure and miss the opportunity to take advantage of lecture time. Or just read ahead because you’re interested. 5) Understand lecture time is a tiny amount of your time overall in university, it truly is down to you to learn. Its an active process – you have to be interested, engaged, plan and do additional work to understand and do well. 5.1) ask questions in lectures. Write questions to ask when you're doing assignments or reading around the subject. 6) Build a structure and keep to it – this is definitely a personal preference, it may not be your thing – whether its waking up at the same time everyday and going to bed at the same time, blocking periods for work, exercise, playing games, and doing it no matter what. When you’re so busy its important to ensure you control your time. It doesn’t have to be rigid, the goal is to provide structure so you can succeed, you can always choose to not follow parts of your plan. 8) Absolutely take advantage of the social life and various activities, clubs, societies etc, you can’t work all of the time!