Starting University (at the university of reading)
Hi, I’m Vesper, a third year Art and English Literature student, and I know that starting University is a scary time for everyone, you may feel like you do not really know what to do with yourself, so I have compiled a list of things that you can do in your first week of coming to University that will help you settle into the area and prepare you for your upcoming time as a student.
Familiarise yourself with the local area
One of the most important things to do when you first come to university is to explore your new campus. Take a walk around all of the different buildings on campus ready for when your classes start so you know where they are. Equally, it will be useful for you to take a walk around the library and the students union to familiarise yourself with all the different facilities that are available to you; and, when you want to just relax a bit and take a break from the stress of moving in, try taking a walk along the lake, around Harris gardens, or through the wilderness.
(You can find maps of the campus here: Campus maps | University of Reading)
Something else that is a good idea when you first move is to explore the town. Start by taking a walk down the high street and see all the shops the town has to offer, maybe you will even find something useful to pick up for your new room. Then, take a walk along the river and take in all the beautiful views, you can just walk along the oracle riverside, or, if you are feeling more adventurous, take a longer walk to Caversham or view island. If you do not want to travel far for exciting locations, however, you can always visit the Abbey ruins that are just off the high street.
Something chill but also very useful you can do before your classes start is to create a page on notion. You can make a different section for each week where there is a space for your notes (if you plan on typing them), as well as a reading list so you can keep track and up to date with what you need to do to prepare for each week.
One of the more daunting things about university is making friends, but a good and easy way you can make a start on doing this is by going to as many society tasters as possible, you do not have to commit to any of these societies and, while it can be scary, it can be extremely rewarding too and I would highly encourage you to push yourself to try as many as you can.
(Check out all the societies the university has to offer here! Student Opportunities | Reading Students' Union)
