Transition and Support – Kieran’s Story

The transition to uni can often be the toughest part for any student, especially if you’re having to change settings to go to uni. But if it’s anything like mine, then it can be made all the easier if you’re lecturers and fellow students are professional, but also laid back. Every single one of my lecturers had different traits that really made life easy for us as students. They were also very approachable when we wanted to talk to someone.

So if you’re someone who’s worried about the transition, my advice would be to get to know your lecturers because they can be some of the best help on offer if you’re having issues with a module on your course, or something outside of your degree. Lecturers are experienced in their job and will know the stresses that we as students may feel, so because of that they will be able to give you a lot of support and guidance.

There were times where I would be really concerned about a particular assignment. At first, I thought it would be best if I continued doing it myself and not ask for help as I didn’t want them to think I wasn’t ready for the university. But I soon realised it made more sense to ask for help since it would only benefit me and allow me to learn new things. So, when I approached my lecturer and asked for help, I was confident that I’d get the support I needed. And I couldn’t have been more right. They were so understanding and made sure I knew what I needed to do. I was given all the resources I needed and felt much better after discussing it through with them.

My best as advice is to always ask for help if you need it. University is a tough old thing and sometimes it can feel a little overwhelming, but never be afraid to ask for that little bit of support if you feel you need it. You want to do as best as you can, and by making sure you’re following the right path, you’ll be able to do just that!

As I said, our lecturers often acted like us. So it wouldn’t be right if I didn’t tell you a few of the funny stories. Maybe we should start with the lecturer who wheeled chairs around the classroom the entire time they were speaking? Or maybe the time one of our lecturers spilt coffee over themselves after they tried to use their arms as a form of expression?

Like I’ve mentioned, our lecturers were always there for us when we needed them, and that included the times where we needed to laugh. Our lectures would always include funny stories or tangents that came from cases we would discuss during the two-hour slot. It makes the experience all that more enjoyable. For all that uni is about ultimately getting a degree, having fun is also a big part of it. And when you have tutors who are able to give you that enjoyment and make you laugh, it makes it much more fun!