Year 13 University Preparation Pack

Keep Moving Forward

This booklet is designed to help you get prepared for university.

It is normally issued after exams but as exams have now been cancelled, it gives you

even more time to prepare for the next, very important stage of your education.

Amongst all the uncertainty that we are currently in, we do know that this crisis will end

and better days that lie ahead; seize the opportunity to get a head start and prepare for

those better days.

Complete as many of the activities in the booklet as you can.

Table of contents 1. Basic details- University of your choice

2. Pre reading

3. Current affairs

4. What to take to University

5. What to expect when you get to University

6. How to access support at University

7. Cooking on a budget – Recipes you can try out before you get there!

8. Finances at university

9. Meeting new people

10. Looking after yourself

Fill in your details below: Name:

University Firm choice:

University Insurance choice:

Course:

1. Basic details-University of your

choice You may not have had the opportunity to visit the firm/insurance university of your choice.

Take some time to research the following and fill in the tables:

University- Firm choice University Insurance choice

Cost of train:

Duration of journey:

Cost of coach:

Duration of journey:

University- Firm choice University Insurance choice

Type of Campus (Campus/City)

Accommodation

Nearby Cities/Towns

Reputation

Ranking

Course components and set up

Societies/clubs on offer that you are interested in checking out:

Additional notes as you spend time researching about your university:

2. Pre-reading for your course Every university course will have a reading list. This reading list will support you in your

understanding of your subject and ultimately support you in achieving a top quality degree.

This is a really great opportunity for you to get ahead of the course right from the beginning and

start with your pre-reading.

We have written to you with some suggestions of books that are on your course reading list at university. To get a fuller list, contact the course leader (who’s details will be on the online

prospectus for your course). The course leader will be able to provide a more extensive list of

books/articles that correlate with your course.

Getting books:

Sometimes books for university can be expensive. Below are some ideas of where you can

access articles and books for free/cheaper:

https://bookboon.com/en/textbooks

https://openlibrary.org/

http://www.worldlibrary.org/

https://scholar.google.co.uk/

https://www.goodreads.com/

http://www.gutenberg.org/

http://www.readprint.com/

https://academic.oup.com/journals/

You can also order books that are ‘good as new’ ‘new’ or ‘used’ from Amazon. If you are usually

in receipt of the bursary in 6th Form it would be a good idea to use this to fund the key texts for

your university course. It is also worth going on the Facebook groups and student forums as

many former students sell their text books at reduced prices for the new students coming

through.

If you are doing a Science/Medicine based course do make sure you have the latest text books that include the latest research – your university reading list should guide you on the best text

books to get.

Making Notes:

It is important to make notes on the things you read as it will improve your

understanding by forcing you to convert difficult ideas into your own words. This way,

you are more likely to remember what you have read.

If you just read passively while you study you risk ‘glazing over’ and don’t process what

you have read.

There is no right or wrong way of taking notes. However, try to keep your notes brief

and succinct. There is no benefit gained from trying to write everything down - your

notes should reflect the main themes and the areas you have identified as important.

Cornell note-taking:

Cornell note-taking is a very popular way of organising notes. It involves dividing your

page into three sections:

1. Main section: For notes made during class.

2. Margin: For noting down key words, people, events, dates and questions, written

after class

3. Summary: For an overview of the main point, written after class.

How to make Cornell notes:

Make sure that you note down:

Title of book

Author

Page numbers for key sections/quotes

Taking notes in lectures:

Taking notes from speech (in a lecture, tutorial or from recorded audio) can be difficult because

it may not be possible to ask the speaker to repeat their words. You may find yourself writing as

fast as you can and still missing potentially important points.

If you are given a handout at a tutorial, use this as the framework for taking your own notes.

Try to find out what the subject will be beforehand so you are less likely to be taken by

surprise and miss things. Read any relevant study material or notes.

Become accustomed to listening intently. The speaker may signpost significant moments

by saying things such as: "I will discuss three main ways in which ...", or "I would like to

move on to another topic...".

Be wary of noting down as fact what a speaker might mention as an example of a

contentious view.

Become used to thinking actively about what you are listening to. You probably don't

need to takes notes on everything so get used to identifying what does need to be noted

down and what you can let go.

Create a wide margin down one side of the notepaper you use to take notes. Later on,

when you look at your notes again, use the margin area to précis or add extra notes to

the notes.

Of course you can rewind recorded audio when taking notes from it, but try not to do

too much of this as it can take a lot of time.

Try to re-read your notes soon after taking them. This will help to embed the content in

your memory. If using the Cornell-method, summarise the main point of the lecture at

the bottom of your notes.

Have a go:

Watch the TED Talk by Fareed Zakaria, How the World Could Change After the coronavirus

pandemic (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldKtWp7jlHI).

As you watch and listen, take note of the key points. Afterwards, pick out key words and terms

and summarise the main point. Try and keep your notes to just one page. Remember, you are

not to note down everything that is said.

Psst…there are lots of other great TED talks too.

The Brilliant Club also has some great resources to help you get ready for university.

https://thebrilliantclub.org/the-brilliant-club-for-pupils/info-for-pupils/

This provides some helpful advice on teaching methods, timetable and extra-curricular

activities at university.

13 April 2020

Fareed Zakaria, TED Talk

How the world could change after the coronavirus pandemic

Summary:

3. Current Affairs Going to university means that you will be meeting lots of new people. There will be

debate, discussion and the dissemination of ideas. It is important that your voice and

opinion is heard-you have a lot to contribute.

Sometimes, we need to think about what our opinion or view is in order to be able to

articulate ourselves properly. Whatever views you have, make sure that you can

support them with evidence and are able to balance it with opposing views. Listen to

others. The questions below are those that are most topical and likely to come up in

discussion. Think about what your own views are on them and discuss them with your

friends.

Politics:

1. Has the government handled the coronavirus correctly?

2. Has Brexit been a triumph or disaster?

3. Was Jeremy Corbyn fit to be Prime Minister?

4. Is feminism an outdated concept?

5. Should the government be able to take away people’s citizenship?

Science and Technology:

1. Is global warming a threat to us?

2. Is Mindfulness a myth?

3. Has technology damaged society?

4. Should we allow parents to choose the genes of their children?

5. Are robots going to steal our jobs?

Foreign Policy:

1. Are Russia and China a threat to the West?

2. Should Britain cut ties with Saudi Arabia?

3. Israel/Palestine-What’s the solution?

4. Is Trump building or ruining the USA?

5. Has military intervention in the Middle East reduced the threat of Isis?

History and Social Policy:

1. Is Britain really great? 2. Should the West pay reparations for slavery?

3. Is identity politics tearing society apart?

4. Is it time to end the war on drugs?

5. Should free speech be unlimited?

Arts and Culture:

1. Who is the greatest novelist? 2. Is graffiti art?

3. Is hip-hop a force of good or bad?

4. Should comedians be able to make jokes about all subjects?

5. Is it OK to cause offence?

If you want a headstart or to get some background to these topics, check out https://www.intelligencesquared.com/watch-and-listen/. Most of the topics above have been debated by high profile figures.

4. What to take to University Packing for university – what essentials to bring?!

Item

Duvet, duvet cover, duvet sheets x2

Mattress cover

Pillows, pillow cases x2

Blanket

Towel x2

Tablet and charger!

Clothes rack (and iron)

Plate x2

Bowl x2

Cutlery, cutting knives x2

Mug x2

Glasses x2

Frying pan/saucepans

Tea towel x2

Chopping board x2

Tupperware

Clothes (winter clothes)

Passport/ID

University admission acceptance letter

Course acceptance letter

Student Finance documents

Passport photos

Speakers

Hair products

Shower gel, soap

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Toilet roll

Toilet cleaner, bleach, toilet brush

Washing up liquid and conditioner

Fairy liquid and sponge

Blue tac and pins

Stationary

Memory stick

Folders, lined paper, plastic wallets

Hot water bottle

Cheese grater

Plug in air freshener

Hangers

Extension lead

5. What to expect when you get to University

When you first arrive at university it can be overwhelming. If you decide to live away

from home you will be getting used to new accommodation and living with new people

from completely different and varied backgrounds. The first few weeks as a Fresher can

be a little unsettling, they can also be some of the most fun!

Lets hear from some of our former Globe Academy students and find out how they got

on when they first got to university…

‘Um first couple weeks for lectures usually have packed lecture halls because everyone is a

serious candidate, but a couple weeks in, attendance tails off because the freedom starts

getting to your head. It's really different to sixth form. If you don't want to fall behind, doing

the sample questions or essays are a big help because the exams are usually similar. Test

yourself often and SLEEP ON TIME. I used to go to bed at 7am, I sometimes still do even, it's

very bad

Outside of lectures, people go out and signing up for societies and clubs… there are a lot of

cheap nights out with alcohol and drugs (amongst other illicit activities). You need to mae he

right decisions! Chances are, your flatmates will be very different to you so going to societies

that you might find people who have things in common with you is important. A lot of people

are shy so you might need to initiate conversation. Good luck and 👍🏾😭’ – Chike Nwaenie,

University of Southampton, studying Theoretical Physics

‘University is definitely something different, whether it is for the better or the worse depends

on how you make it be. I've made my university experience exciting, eventful and unique.

From avoiding eye contact with a society fair representative to meeting that same

representative in the club to waking up in the morning making your own breakfast and

coffee going for the morning cycles there is enough flexibility to make your life whatever you

want it to be. But don't forget university is to learn your chosen degree, and even though I've

only mentioned anything apart from that it is what you're there for. So, in the end, make

sure you pick the right degree for yourself and you surround yourself with the right people.

Because that'll define your university experience a lot, and as I mentioned previously it will

either make you better or worse, so choose wisely.

Note About my schedule: Even though the sleep window is 8 hrs I can't say that I've been

following it that strictly :)’ – Murat Saglam, University of Warwick, studying Cyber Security

‘Only 10 contact hours this term but the amount of reading is insane so it’s not all too great.

However, I don’t think I’m being too overwhelmed at the moment, I’ve got a lot of free time

as you can see and I manage to have Saturdays off after a night out and still go to the

gym/football 3/4 times a week for 2 hours so I’m still finding time to do my own stuff in

between. Really enjoying the entire experience so far and can’t wait for the rest! ’ – Joao

Alves, University of Warwick, studying Global Development

“Hey guys, congrats to all of you for sending your UCAS hope you all get your offers. But to

be absolutely real with you university can sometimes feel like a 2/10. The reason I say this is

because everything they tell you before is a scam. People do not run to you and ask to be

your friend, people often stay in their rooms. I have made many friends here but hardly see

them, why, because I’m tired of all the ‘never have I ever’ and ‘deep conversations’. Like

don’t get me wrong I have fun, but it’s uni that will show you that fun is expensive, meaning

all the budgeting they are about to teach you is going to go right past your head during your

first term. I was ordering dominos left right and centre. DONT FALL INTO THE TRAP! When

dominos come to your uni ignore them because all the discounts will stack up and your bank

will be declining whilst your belly will be growing. And to everyone who has decided to stay

in London, good choice because it’s actually the best city in the world so why would you

want to leave, except if you’re like me and wanted to get away from your parents. On the

topic of lectures, I’m ashamed to say my lecturers have hardly seen me in the first term and

when exams came, the exam paper was laughing at me, so make sure you go or at least

catch up don’t fall off because it’s really easy to become lazy, have a routine! But overall I

think university is an amazing experience and you should make the most of every

opportunity. Good luck!” – Fallou Biteye, Aston University, studying International Business

Management

‘All I will say is to be like me (haha) when it comes to spending.. strict. I avoid carrying a card

but instead a set amount of cash when I'll be going to university. This helps with avoiding

spending too much and being more conscious of my expenses.

Secondly I'll say regarding assignments, always at least begin them or do research on the

day it's given; deadline can seem far away but it usually creeps up on you and will end up on

you rushing work!

In terms of the first few days I'd say don't worry about it too much. Mostly everyone's

anxious about meeting new people and as long as they're open, they won't have trouble

making new friends. Also, in terms of studies, they're designed to ease you in throughout

approximately the first 2 weeks; they won't just throw students into the deep end.’ – Jewell

Olu-Micah, Goldsmiths University, studying Business Management

Fresher’s week: Its when you pick up your ID, Introduction to Uni life, sign up for sports and societies and lots of meet-up activities like speed dating- its meant to help

people to find people from their course. It was exciting and kinda scary but you just have to go with it with an open mind and be proactive and go to events- it helps you

familiarise with the campus 😉 Lectures: first lectures would be introductory lectures where they talk you through

what the module is about and what it entails like in-course assessments, mid-sessionals etc. The professors also encourage people to have like a bonding time at the end of the lecture where u introduce yourself to other people in your course. This is when you find the group of friends which you have similarities with like hobbies and likes.

Also, a lot of first lectures are recap from A-levels or GCSE so that everyone starts in

the same level.

What else can I say? Haha.... generally, university is doable if you manage your time really

well, which can be soooooooo hard because you’ll fall into the trap of a lot of

procrastinating, messed up sleeping pattern etc.

In year 1, I found myself studying and I didn’t really have a major issue apart from social and

psychological studies, which I dreaded because I was never a fan of psychology. In year 2,

that’s when I found myself procrastinating a lot because I thought I could do an essay in 2

days because I did it during the first year but I thought wrong haha! As year goes by, you

learn a lot of stuff and so essay questions gets harder so it requires more time. Year 3 is my

last year, and I feel like im only settling in now. – Arabelle Santiago, King’s College, studying

Nutrition

Reflection task:

What are you most looking forward to about University?

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What do you think your biggest challenge will be living / working with new people? (If

you are choosing to stay at home, what do you think the biggest challenge will be in

making new friends?

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What could you do to pre-empt or overcome this challenge?

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What dangers/temptations may you face during Fresher’s week?

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How can you take care of yourself and make sure you make wise/safe choices?

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6. How to access support at University

Moving from home, being in a new environment and balancing the stress of University

isn’t always easy. There may be times you need support for a learning need, a mental

health need, a financial need.

All Universities have dedicated places to find support and help. Read the scenarios and

research online the places and people you can go to at your University for additional

support and help. If you are unsure- reach out to the Student Union who can direct you

to the right place.

Issue Place to find support

1. You have used up all your student loan. You have paid your rent and tuition fees but now you are really struggling for finances in which to live. Where can you go for help?

2. You have found the semester particularly stressful, you’re feeling anxious about work and are struggling to sleep. You think you need to see a counsellor for some additional support. Where can you go for help?

3. You have moved into your accommodation but it is not at all what you were hoping for, additionally you do not get on with your housemates. Where can you go for help?

4. You were diagnosed with dyslexia at school and know you will need some further assistance at University. Where can you go for support?

7. Cooking on a budget- some recipes to

try out before you get there!

Cooking on a budget is much easier than it sounds. Whilst you have extended time at

home, why don’t you try out some of the recipes we have included in this pack. Check

out some of the links below for some more ideas on cooking on a budget!

• https://realfood.tesco.com/recipes/collections/on-a-budget.html

• https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/student

• http://www.foodnetwork.co.uk/article/essential-student-survival-recipes.html

• https://studentrecipes.com/

Make a list of the food you like to eat:

What ingredients are needed to make these dishes?

Where can you source these ingredients for the cheapest price? Research Asda, Tesco,

Sainsburys, Coop, Local market stores:

Once bubbling and the beans are hot, season and taste to serve.

8. Finances at University

By now you should have sorted your student finance. If this is still outstanding please

email Ms Barcinska for additional support.

It is important that you spend some time considering how you will apportion your

money. Use the next page to figure out your monthly budget.

Some great sites for you to also check out to support your with finance and ways you

can cut costs are:

• 16-25 Railcard: just £30 a year to get a third off your rail fares - very useful if

you'll be travelling home on the train for holidays and weekends.

• 18+ Student Oyster Photocard: pay a £20 admin fee for 30% off London travelcard costs. You must live at a London address in term-time to be able to apply.

• National Express Young Persons Coachcard: £10 a year (plus £2.50 p&p) for a third off coach fares.

• https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/

Check out the following places where you can apply for additional bursaries or money

support:

• https://www.grantfairy.com/ There are literally hundreds of places you can

access additional bursary money- if you are vegetarian, Free school meals,

BAME, First in your family to go to University, interested in travelling, like

playing sports, LGBTQ+. Download the app and apply for additional bursary

help!

• https://www.southwark.gov.uk/jobs-and-careers/help-you-to-find-a-job-or-

training/southwark-scholarship-scheme-2020

• https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/university-tuition-

fees/other-financial-support/other-bursaries-and-scholarships

Use the budgeting form on the next page to have a go at working out how much

you can spend on the different areas of life.

There are also some great budgeting apps out there too:

9. Meeting New People

University is a great place to meet new people and make new friends.

Expectations around this can be huge. Many people have heard stories about university

being the ‘best time of their lives’ or ‘meeting their wife/husband’ at university. It’s true

that for many, the friends you make at university remain your friends for life but don’t

arrive at university thinking that you have to make friends straight away. Just relax and

don’t put pressure on yourself. It is best to arrive with no expectations at all. Be open-

minded, welcoming and able to have a conversation with anyone. Small talk is going to be

key! Below are some ideas for conversation starters with strangers:

• How are you finding it all?

• What are you studying?

• Where do you live? Where are your family from?

• Do you know the area well?

• What music do you like?

• What are you drinking?

• What did you have for dinner?

• Do you like football?

Complimenting people is also a great way to start a conversation but be sincere and

genuine.

A few other tips for getting on with new people:

Be considerate of those you are living with.

Keep the noise down: Halls are pretty compact, with lots of people coming and going. No

matter how quiet you are, sound travels surprisingly well. It's probably not something you

noticed on an Open Day either, when rooms were empty and the current inhabitants

weren't running around.

Whether you're on the phone, playing music or just shutting a heavy door, there's a chance

someone else in your flat will hear you. So be mindful, especially at night and during exam

season.

People approach washing up differently: Sharing a kitchen can be great. It's very social

and a good way to bond. But you should know that most universities don't give you a

dishwasher (unless you're very lucky!), so expect to wash your things up by hand. This can

pose a problem when lots of people are in the kitchen at the same time, or if someone is a

bit more relaxed when it comes to their washing up... often a gentle reminder does the

trick.

What if you don’t get on with someone?

If you're lucky enough to make friends with everyone you live and study with, that's

fantastic! But in all likelihood there will be moments where you clash or disagree with

someone in your flat at some point. It's understandable really, given that you're thrown in

with a bunch of people with different personalities, attitudes and backgrounds.

Being civil is the key. Everyone has bad days and life is much easier when you can get on

with those you're living with.

Remember, everyone will go through times when they feel they don't belong or feel left

out- that’s normal. If you feel this way, chances are there'll be someone else in your flat

feeling the same way. So don't be afraid to let it out. They may need to talk just as much as

you. No matter how different you think you are from those around you, you will have

more in common than you think.

Clubs & Societies

There are a huge variety of clubs and societies at universities. During Fresher’s Week, lots

of clubs and societies will try and get you to join them.

Join those that you are interested in but also take the opportunity to try something new.

You will often find like-minded people in clubs and societies and this is also a great way to

build a friendship network.

Check out the clubs and societies at your university and think about the ones that you

might want to join. If they don’t have something you are interested in, think about setting

up a club or society

Clubs and societies are also a great way to make networks for future careers. For example,

if you are interested in politics, it is a good idea to join the university newspaper or

students’ union.,

10. Looking After Yourself

Going to university is a massive change in your life. For many, it will involve moving away

from home and away from support networks. University can also be a busy time, which can

make it harder for you to take the time to look after your mental wellbeing. When you’re

busy, stresses can mount up and really take their toll - so it’s important to take the time to

prioritise your own mental wellbeing.

It’s important to feel good so that you can be your best self. However, when you’re not

feeling great, it can be hard to know what will help you to feel better. Before you go to

university, it is a good ideas to note down the things that help you to maintain good

wellbeing. Think about the things that make you feel energised and positive. It might help

to work backwards and think about the things that make you feel drained and exhausted.

Below are some examples of things that help you maintain good wellbeing:

• A good night’s sleep and a good sleep routine

• Eating well

• Physical activity

• Doing something you enjoy

• Quiet time

• Spending time with friends

• Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and avoiding recreational drugs

Sleeping well is very important and something that can easily be neglected at university

where, should you want to, you could go out and stay out late every night. Likewise, there

will be lots of opportunities to eat takeaways and junk food. Be kind to yourself and make

sure you don’t fall into the partying hard, eating poorly trap- it will leave you burnt out.

Whatever time you have, you can do something to help your own wellbeing.

What are the things that you do to maintain your wellbeing?

How do I know when my wellbeing isn’t good? How do I know when I am stressed?

What can I do to support my wellbeing?

How much sleep do I need?

What activities/exercise can I do?

What should I eat?

Who can I speak to?

If you do find yourself experiencing mental health difficulties which are

preventing you from doing the things you want to do, seek help – whether

through friends, family, a doctor, or your university support services. Always

remember that you can reach out to us at Globe too

You’ve got this!