By Ali Januwala, BA Accounting and Financial Management
The thought of studying at University brings about mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness, as you prepare yourself for the upcoming adventure of University life. University is a place that allows you to come out of your comfort zone, explore and bring the best out of yourself.
An important aspect of University experience is to obtain a degree with a good score. During the initial weeks it is highly tempting for majority of students to devote time in settling in and leaving the real study for later, however this can lead to a huge amount of work piling up before you know. I’ve found that forming a study routine as soon as your course starts, will put you in a better position when its time for assessments and exams.
The academic and study skills that you have learned at school or college, may not necessarily be suitable for higher education, especially if you are an international student. Struggling with study and academic skills is a key problem most students face, as education at University involves students to undertake large amounts of independent studying, due to fewer contact hours with lecturers.
I atten
ded a few skills workshops and MASH (Maths and Statistics Help) sessions at the 301 Students Skills and Development Centre. The 301 study skills tutorials provide students a one to one discussion with a tutor, which includes guidance on effective note taking techniques during lecture, exam revision, planning essays and by providing additional resources to learn from.
Reading and listening in English was a challenge 
for me, as English was not my first language. The 301 Student Skills and Development Centre, referred me to the English Language Teaching Centre and I got help to boost my written English skills, which tremendously benefited my essay writing.
Studying at University and in a foreign language can be challenging at times. It is very easy to feel overwhelmed, however you’re not the only one going through this phase. University services such as those provided by thee are a great resource for students and helps to support us to achieve our best.