Every Monday, firstpoint publishes five points about a topic related to life at university. This week, a new semester means a new start, why not start to plan ahead and feel positive for the term ahead…
POINT ONE: PLANNING AHEAD…
We hope everyone across the university enjoyed your Christmas break and those sitting exams last week feel proud of your hard work. Now we’re ready to reset and start a new semester, it’s a good time to set up a meeting with your Personal Academic Tutor to discuss your progress and next steps.
Why not use this time to build upon the progress you have already made by making use of all the resources that are available. How about booking an appointment with the Royal Literary Fund Writers in Residence? They offer confidential support on many aspects of academic writing, grammar, structure and style, no matter what year of study you’re in. You can also book in tuorials with the Centre for Academic English and Skills for practical advice on your academic writing with personalised feedback.
For other study skills resources, have a look at the firstpoint webpage.
POINT TWO: MAKE A CHANGE…
Most of your module selections were decided at least a semester ago, if not longer. After your last couple of months studying, it’s possible that you’ve changed your mind about a semester two module; your interests might have changed or maybe you think a different module would be a better fit for your future career choices.
Luckily, you have some flexibility to change an optional module, usually within the first two weeks of teaching. You can make a request yourself via your SOLE page, under the Course Information tab in the module change request section and be sure to check the deadlines on the Registry Services webpages.
If you need help with your module selections or options, the Programme Advisers can help you! You can call the team for individual advice on 01905 542727. Please check all the details of support and the telephone helpline opening times on the Programme Adviser webpage here.
POINT THREE: EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS…
For even bigger changes and challenges, why not consider the exciting prospect of Study Abroad? Dip your toe in by visiting for a semester or take the plunge with a whole year abroad.
For more information about the range of possibilities, application deadline dates and more answers to common questions about studying abroad, have a look at the Study Abroad webpage. Alternatively, you can book an appointment with the Student Mobility team to talk about your options, they’ll be happy to discuss this exciting opportunity with you. Contact firstpoint or email the team directly on international-experience@worc.ac.uk.
POINT FOUR: LOOK TO THE FUTURE…
The turn of the year is always a good time to stop and reflect on your past decisions and look to where your choices are leading you. It might be useful to meet with a member of the Careers and Employability Service. The specialist advisers run one-to-one appointments to discuss your goals, as well as offering workshops and drop-in sessions throughout the semester. They can provide you with guidance and inspiration about your future career and help you develop your employability skills for the next stage in your life.
You can access the service and book appointments via the myCareer tile on your MyDay portal.
POINT FIVE: TAKE PART…
Students come to university for a variety of reasons. Most come for a qualification, others for the pleasure of studying a subject they enjoy, and some because they feel they should or have been sent by an employer.
Whatever your reasons for being here, your time at university is not solely about your academic path. There are many opportunities to discover new interests and meet a range of new people – whether you are a new starter this semester, or just fancy giving something a go now you’re settled in!
The Students’ Union is a great place to start; There are often events and useful information available to help you settle into the year, and you can reach out to your nominated SU Officers for advice and support. The SU also have an amazing range of clubs and societies, as well as opportunities to get involved with campaigns and events. If you have a passion for something, or want to build up your wider experience, pop into the SU on St Johns campus or get in touch for more information.
Find out all the possibilities that are available to you as a student at the University of Worcester and make the most of every opportunity!
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