Advice

What is the Russell Group? 

The Russell Group is an association that represents 24 public research universities in the UK. The group believes that “people and ideas are the key to meeting global challenges. Through world-class research and education, we are helping to create a dynamic economy, stronger communities, and a better future for the UK”.

University life offers you a wealth of experiences, but it can also present challenges – academic pressures, social isolation, mental health struggles. 

As institutions strive to create a supportive environment, it is important that they recognise the critical role you can play in shaping the well-being programmes that directly impact you as students. By actively participating in the development of these initiatives, you can ensure that the support services available reflect your needs, preferences and unique experiences. 

Imagine pursuing a PhD for four years only to realise in the fifth year that research and teaching are not the right paths for you. This is where I found myself – waking up one day, knowing I was on the wrong track. 

Procrastination

Leaving my homeland and family to study in a different social and cultural landscape was overwhelming. So, I kept putting off starting my applications, as there was always some uncertainty. Finally, as the intake deadline for my shortlisted universities inched closer, I had to rush to prepare all the required documents.

Lesson learned: Procrastinating doesn’t help. If you can manage the final aspects of studying abroad and have the required qualifications, just go for it. 

Whether you are settling back into a routine, returning to exams, or starting your studies in January, planning ahead can ease the transition. Here are some practical tips to help prepare for a smooth return to university. 

Rebuild focus and motivation 

After the festivities of the winter break, shifting back into academic life can sometimes feel difficult. To make this transition easier: 

While we don’t really think you need to make new year’s resolutions or to start changing your entire way of life once January comes around, it is often a good time to take stock of the previous year and think about little steps you can take to prep for a new term.

Here are five easy ways that you can prepare for the new semester and the new year. 

We often think of well-being as managing stress or meeting individual needs, but real well-being is about much more than that. It involves creating deeper connections – with yourself, with those around you and with the natural world.

Got your acceptance letter from a university abroad? Great! It can be both overwhelming and exciting – a new country and university with plenty of opportunities, an entirely different culture and new people around. But the significant expenses of tuition fees, accommodation and more can be intimidating. That’s where a part-time job can be an attractive choice for international students.