7 ways to make the most of your time at uni

So you’re well into your first term at university. The days are getting colder, darker and shorter and the Christmas holidays are inching ever closer. It seems like a good time then to reflect on the year so far and ask yourself, ‘Am I making the most of my time at university?’ Your university years should be some of the best years of your life. That’s why we’ve come up with these 7 simple ways to make sure your university experience is fulfilling, rewarding and most of all, fun!

1. Embrace learning

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It's quite easy to become so distracted by deadlines, exams and the other chaos associated with student life that you forget why you're there in the first place - to learn!

University is your chance to explore the subject you're really inspired by in an interesting and dynamic way. And unless you continue your studies, you won't have the chance to do this again.

So go out and taste-test the different modules on offer to you, attend the extra seminars put on by experts and make use of the rich learning resources at your fingertips.

2. Have fun!

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Whether your idea of fun is clubbing all night or strolling in the park with your friends, having fun at university is just as important as getting good grades.

It's also an important way to de-stress, unwind and relax.

For students at Middlesex, having fun often involves a trip to central London – visiting exhibitions, cafes, shows and clubs!

3. Build new friendships

Students at Middlesex University, London

One of the best things about university is that it puts you in contact with so many new people - capitalise on this as much as possible.

Learn from each other and share experiences because it'll make you a more rounded person and equip you with the skills needed to work with all kinds of people in the outside world.

Here at Middlesex, our students come from over 150 different countries. Being part of an international community on campus gives our students the opportunity to learn about different cultures, ethnicities and nationalities on a day-to-day basis!

4. Join a society (or better, start one!)

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Ranging from the weird and wacky to the political and passionate, you'll have the option to join a variety of societies at your university. For example, at Middlesex students can join everything from the Harry Potter Society to the Amnesty International Society.

Going to socials is a must. Not only do they regularly involve dressing up, they're also a wonderful opportunity to meet new people outside your course and accommodation.

And if you don't find something you like, go and create your own! Your Student Union will offer full administrative, promotional and financial support to get you started.

To find a list of the societies at your university or to find out how you can start your own, simply go to your Student Union's website.

5. Push yourself beyond your comfort zone

Middlesex University's Mauritius campus

Challenge yourself by doing something you've never done before.

A great way to do this is to study abroad for part of your course – an option now offered by many universities. Studying abroad gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, learn a new language and make friends from all over the world.

Middlesex University offers one of the most comprehensive exchange programmes in the UK. Most of our degree programmes provide an exchange opportunity to study in one of our 3 international campuses or a choice of over 100 partner universities across the world.

Another way to push yourself is to do a work placement or even spend a year in industry. This will broaden your skillset and give you an understanding of what work life's like – giving you a great head start!

6. Get to know yourself

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What do you like and what don't you like? With such an array of opportunities open to you, there's virtually nothing you can't try. University is a perfect opportunity to figure out more about yourself and your passions.

Perhaps you'll realise you're a brilliant cook but terrible at keeping your accommodation clean!

Whatever you learn about yourself, you'll be more prepared for the world beyond university where bigger life decisions happen.

7. Don't be afraid to ask for help

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Leaving home for the first time, juggling studies with making new friends - university can be a big lifestyle change and students sometimes have problems settling in.

A lot of students underestimate the different pressures and stresses that they might experience during their time at university – so it's important to be kind to yourself and take care of yourself.

Don't feel ashamed to ask for help – be it emotional, physical or social support- your university will have a loads of support services to guide you through any difficulties.

If you're a student at Middlesex, check out our list of support services.

If this article has got you inspired to apply to university, why not attend one of our open days