What Uni has taught me

Now, I'm nearing the end of my university experience, going into my 3rd and final year of my degree. But, I know some of you will just be starting. It's scary, yes, but will honestly be some of the best years of your life. And in order to help a little, I've created a quick list of some of the things I've learnt over the years. (Learn through my mistakes and empty purse).

1. No matter how many surveys you complete, you will properly need a proper job. Most places are understanding of University timetables so get your CV out there as soon as you can- before everyone else gets in there first! 
2. When you spend money, put the receipt on 'Receipt Hog'. This handy app uses your receipts for surveys whilst you get 'coins' in return. The coins eventually add up and you can cash them in on Paypal. An extra £5 here and there never hurt anybody.
3. I know when you first move out, it can be very daunting that you have to cook for yourself. That being said, try not to have toooo many takeaways as it will absolutely drain your bank account! Save your money for takeaways with your new friends, rather than just having one all to yourself. (That way you get to split delivery as well!) 
4. When you go out, make sure you get your fill of alcohol at Pre's and not in the clubs. Club prices are ridiculous and if you've paid £10 to get in, you don't want to be spending £5 on watered down drinks. Take a recyclable bottle and pour yourself another drink, then you can drink on your way there and recycle the bottle when you get to the club.
5. Packet risotto from Aldi is a LIFESAVER! It's so so cheap and makes two portions of really quick and yummy food. Make sure you stock up because always having a few packets in is really helpful.
6. I know it can seem tempting if you have a hangover or haven't quite completed the work you were supposed to, but don't skip lectures. I worked it out and for my course (12 contact hours), it's £95 per class. That's a hell of a lot of money to waste! Also, that means you're then playing catch up, which for a course like drama, is pretty damn hard.  Lecturers will completely understand if you are ill and want to take it steady -the fact that you even turned up shows that you actually care, which they'll really appreciate.
7. Get yourself a calendar and plan your life! Make sure you note down every single due date, deadline, new friends birthdays and social events. The amount of people who don't know the due date for their work is quite scary -being ahead of the game and planning revision or work time will always benefit you in the long run. 
8. Get to know the city before your course starts. Take a few random buses or go on walks, just have a wander and see what you can find. The sooner you know your environment, the sooner you'll feel comfortable in it. Also, you'll be a pro at the buses which means you'll know what to do on your first day.
9. Whatever you do, DO NOT miss freshers fair! Yes, it will be insanely overcrowded and a bit of a shambles, but any free stuff you can get, get it! I know in Bristol they give out Wetherspoons voucher books, where you can get a burger and an alcohol drink for £3.99 -what a perfect way to hang out with your new friends and not break the bank!
10. Try and make friends with the people living on your floor in halls. I know in my first year we had a massive group chat for everyone that was on floor 3. That way if there was ever a flat party, everyone got involved and it was a great chance to meet the people who were living next door or down the corridor. 

I hope these tips have helped and will make the uni experience just a little bit smoother.

Thank you for reading,

Hollie xx