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Worried About Your Studies? You're Not Alone

Starting university can feel like a big academic leap. You might be excited about your course but also wondering whether you're prepared for lectures, assignments, exams, and independent study.

The good news? Many students experience academic worries at some point during their university journey. Whether you're struggling to stay organised, worried about grades, or simply feeling overwhelmed, support is available.

Here are some top tips to help you stay on track and feel more confident.

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University is different Get organised Attend your classes Ask questions Don't Leave everything to the night before Use the support available Look after your wellbeing When to reach out You belong here Get Support Useful Links

Remember: University Is Different

University learning can feel very different from school or college.

You may find yourself:

Managing your own study schedule
Spending less time in the classroom
Completing larger assignments
Being expected to study independently

It takes time to adapt, and nobody expects you to have it all figured out in your first few weeks.

Get Organised Early

A little organisation can go a long way.

Try:

Using a planner or digital calendar
Keeping track of deadlines and exam dates
Breaking large assignments into smaller tasks
Setting reminders for lectures and seminars

'Future You' will thank 'Present You' for staying organised!

Attend Your Classes

It sounds simple, but attending lectures, seminars and tutorials regularly can make a huge difference.

Even when motivation is low:

You'll stay up to date with course content
You'll hear important announcements
You'll have opportunities to ask questions
You'll feel more connected to your course and classmates

Showing up is often half the battle. But if you are ill or have a genuine reason for not being able to attend – make sure you notify your department and report your absence.

Ask Questions

If you don't understand something, ask.

Seriously.

Your lecturers, tutors and support staff are there to help. Chances are, if you're confused, someone else is too.

There is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your learning.

Don't Leave Everything Until the Night Before

We've all heard stories of students writing essays at 3am the night before a deadline. While it happens, it's definitely not the recommended study strategy!

Try to:

Start assignments early
Create mini-deadlines for yourself
Work in manageable chunks
Reward yourself as you go

Small progress is still progress.

Use the Support Available

The University offers lots of academic support, but many students don't realise it's there. Seeking support is a strength, not a weakness.

Skills for Success

Skills for Success offers support to help with academic writing, research, maths and stats skills, as well as practical skills for things like presentations.

The Library

The Library offers workshops and events on academic skills, as well as research support events, workshops and other activities.

Your Student Advisor

Your departmental Student Advisor can help support you and answer questions to guide you through your studies. Every student has a named Student Advisor.

Listen Again

Listen Again is the University's lecture capture and playback service, allowing you to re-watch and review recorded lectures.

Additional support

Additional support may be available if you have any accessibility or Specific Learning Difference (SpLD) needs.

Be Realistic About Perfection

University can sometimes feel competitive, and it can be easy to compare yourself to others.

Remember:

Everyone learns differently
Everyone has strengths and challenges
Not every assignment will be your best work
Progress matters more than perfection

Your worth is not defined by a grade.

Look After Your Wellbeing

It can be difficult to do your best academically when you're tired, stressed or overwhelmed.

Make sure you're:

Getting enough sleep
Eating regularly
Taking breaks from studying
Making time for friends and activities you enjoy

Looking after yourself is part of academic success. All work and no play can lead to burn out – make sure you make time for fun in your schedule as well.

When to Reach Out for Help

It's okay to ask for support, especially if you're:

Missing classes regularly
Struggling to meet deadlines
Feeling overwhelmed by workload
Concerned about your grades
Finding it difficult to stay motivated

The earlier you reach out, the easier it is for help to be put in place.

Remember: You Belong Here

Most students experience moments of self-doubt and wonder whether they're capable enough. This is especially common when you're adjusting to university life.

The fact that you're facing challenges doesn't mean you're failing. It means you're learning, growing and adapting.

Need Some Support?

If academic concerns are affecting your wellbeing, don't struggle in silence. Speak to your tutor, department admin team, or Student Advisor.

If you find you are struggling with your wellbeing, then support is available through the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service (SWIS).

At the SU we also have our SU Advice team and SU Education team who can support if you are experiencing difficulties with your studies or course-related concerns.

We're here to help you navigate the ups and downs of university life.