So you've been at university for about a month now right? I've finished my first year so I know exactly how you feel! You might have just moved far away from home, maybe you're the only one out of your friends that have gone to university or it could just be that you feel unprepared and want to know more.. well I'm here to help! This is my guide to what I believe everyone needs to know to survive first year at university.
Sorting out Money
Your loan from Student Finance arrived and you've most likely started seeing a bit of a difference in your bank account. I was in a bit of shock when I first saw the money in my account because I've never seen or had that much in mine before haha! Just try not spend all on food, alcohol and clothes before your next payment (no matter how tempting) because before you know it, it'll be time to pay rent and you'll be panicking trying to figure out how to pay it.. But don't worry too much if something does go wrong, we're all human after all and for most of us it'll be the first time having this much responsibility. Me personally I set myself a target of around £40 - £60 a week; this includes my weekly food shop, travel money and anything else I might need or want. Obviously what you need might be different to mine but after a while you'll see a pattern and realise how much you need each week. Maybe try keeping receipts for a while to see what you spend your money on?
So if worst comes to worst and you start to have money problems my advice to you would be to talk to your university! They are there to help you so don't leave it till the last minute to say you've run out of money, they'll advise you the best way to approach it and help you if need be! Also, if you start struggling for money you can always try looking for a part time job? Update your CV and give it out in your closest shopping area. Sometimes even your university will have jobs especially for students so keep an eye out!
