Preparing to return to university after the festive break

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: 

Set achievable goals: reflect on last term’s successes and set achievable goals for the upcoming one, such as scheduling time to tackle your reading list. It is important to set realistic goals but if a goal does not work out, take the time to reflect and adjust without dwelling on it too much. 

Create a routine: slowly re-establish a daily routine that mirrors the structure of university life. Begin by trying to stick to consistent wake-up and bedtime hours, setting aside time for academic reading. Organising your study space can also help maintain this routine, as a tidy environment can promote focus and clarity.

Practice mindfulness: mindfulness practices like journaling and staying connected with family and nature can ease post-holiday blues. Prioritise self-care to foster a positive mindset for the term ahead. Remember, it is natural to experience mixed emotions when returning to university.

Get your resources ready 

A bit of preparation can make a big difference, so make sure you have the following resources ready: 

Academic materials: Ensure you have all the necessary stationery, textbooks and access to online resources or lecture slides.  

Update your tech: Check your devices are in good working order. Conduct any relevant software updates, organise files and ensure you can access your learning and teaching platforms such as Blackboard to be ready once you start the new term. 

Mental health resources: Familiarise yourself with your university’s support services, such as counselling or workshops on offer. Knowing where to turn for help is vital.

Campus activities calendar: Look for upcoming events and social societies to re-engage with campus life. Start by looking into your university’s Student Union, which can provide you with lots of exciting opportunities.

Ease back into university life 

While it may feel like there is a lot to do in January, and this can feel overwhelming after taking a break over the festive period, take things slowly and ease your way back in by: 

Reconnecting with friends: Connect with classmates or university friends before heading back. Catching up and sharing plans for the new term can reignite your enthusiasm for returning to university life. 

Starting small: Diving back into lectures and assignments can feel overwhelming. To ease the transition, start with small, manageable tasks like organising your study materials or reviewing last term’s notes.

Planning ahead: Use a planner or digital calendar to track key dates like assignment deadlines, exams, and social events. This overview will help you manage your time more efficiently.

Returning straight to exams

Starting the term with exams can be stressful, so if you are heading back to university and straight into sitting exams, here are some things to consider: 

Stay healthy: You may feel lethargic after the winter break, so it is important to maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated and get sufficient sleep. Cognitive performance relies heavily on physical wellbeing.

Take breaks: Plan short breaks during study sessions to prevent burnout and stay focused. The Pomodoro Technique, which involves 25-minute work intervals followed by five-minute breaks, can be very effective. Nonetheless, it is important to find a technique that works best for you.

Seek support: If you are having difficulty with any topic, reach out to your lecturers, personal academic tutors, or classmates for clarification. Collaborating with peers, such as comparing notes or studying together, can also be an excellent way to reinforce your learning.

If you are starting your studies in January 

January starters face unique challenges when beginning university mid-academic year. Here is some advice to help settle in: 

Get involved early: Join clubs, attend events, and connect with peers where possible to build a support network and foster a sense of belonging. Being part of a community enhances resilience and reminds us that we are not alone. 

Understand your course and university: Familiarise yourself with your university and programme induction. Meeting with personal academic tutors can help clarify expectations. Do not hesitate to seek guidance and ask questions – it is perfectly normal to need support as a new student.

Embrace the challenge: Approach your studies and social life with a positive mindset. Make a list of what excites you and what makes you nervous, then focus on addressing the concerns with practical strategies. Writing down your thoughts clears your mind, allowing you to focus on practical actions to address any apprehensions you may have.

Returning to university after the winter break can feel intimidating, but with careful preparation and a positive mindset, it is a chance to set the stage for a successful term. By focusing on mental readiness, gathering key resources, and easing back into routines, you can ensure a smooth transition, whether you are a new or returning student.