University is a very exciting time, with many opportunities to learn, socialise, and experience new things. It is easy to get caught up in all the events and activities happening on campus, as well as studying for your course. This is why we have put together a brief guide for Pathway students to help them get the most out of their time at the University of Roehampton.
We have split the guide into three main areas: academic study, career progression, and social life. All of these are important for a well-rounded and fulfilling time spent studying.
Academic study
One of the main reasons people choose to study is to achieve their academic goals. Whether you are pre-undergraduate or pre-postgraduate, there will be tests to pass and assessments to take. Here are a few things you can do to engage with your course.
Make use of your personal tutor
At the beginning of your course, you will be assigned a personal tutor. This tutor is a member of staff who is there to offer advice on anything related to your course and future career. If you are struggling with your studies, or just want someone to talk to, your personal tutor is there for you throughout your time at the university.
Speak up in class
Learning is all about asking questions. No one understands every single thing the first time around, so if you need something made clear, just ask – that’s what your tutors are there for! Similarly, if you have an opinion about what is being discussed, don’t be afraid to speak up. You never know, someone else may benefit from what you have to say.
Study outside the classroom
At school, if you didn’t do your homework, your teacher would tell you off and make sure you completed it. At university, it works a little differently. You are responsible for your own work and if you don’t use some of your free time to study, no one will you force you to – but you will be wasting this opportunity. If you find it hard to commit to studying, why not pair up with a friend? You can help to motivate each other, whilst also making sure the other one turns up to your sessions together.
Use the university’s resources
The University of Roehampton is one of very few campus universities in London, which means it has resources on offer that other schools don’t. One of these is the brand-new Library, which is filled with books and friendly staff to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. There are also online resources that include IT training courses, exam revision tips, and report writing advice.
Career progression
Figuring out what you want to do with the rest of your life is different for everyone. Some people have known that they wanted to be a doctor since they were six; for others it’s a little more complicated. There are so many brilliant careers out there that didn’t even exist 20 years ago, so the key is to figure out what interests you, and then find a potential career that fits in with that. The most important thing? Don’t panic! You can always change your mind. Here are a few tips to help you get a better idea of what you want to do during your studies.
Keep an eye out for industry events
If you are studying with Pathways for entry onto a targeted degree, you already know the general industry that you wish to work in. It is incredibly useful to know as much about your chosen field as possible and one way to do this is by attending industry events. Websites like Eventbrite list both free and paid events in every category you can think of, or you can ask your personal tutor if they have any recommendations for you.
Attend networking events
It’s never too soon to start networking. Relationships are an essential part of business and building these while you are still studying can make finding internships, or even jobs, easier once you graduate. You can check Eventbrite for these events, or you can make use of Roehampton Connect. This is an online mentoring and networking platform for one-to-one advice and guidance from experienced professionals.
Check out a careers fair
If you’re still not sure exactly what job you want when you graduate, don’t worry –that’s why there are careers fairs. You can browse the stalls and find out more about sectors that interest you, and even pick up some tips on CV writing and interview techniques.
Social life
You are taking your Roehampton Pathway Programme to learn – but you should also be enjoying yourself! The University of Roehampton’s campus – and London itself – has so much to offer and you should take advantage of both while you have the chance.
The campus
As students, you are, or will soon be, already aware of the beautiful campus and surrounding parkland that Roehampton has to offer. The Student Union is full of societies you can join; the campus is home to several bars and cafés, and there are sports facilities of every description for those who wish to partake. The four colleges give it a sense of community and all put on social events throughout the year.
Things to do nearby
The campus is located in South West London, an area that has a lot going on! Nature is all around and you can choose from deer-spotting in Richmond Park, enjoying the flowers at Kew Gardens, or bird-watching at the WWT London Wetland Centre. Just to the north of the university you’ll find the River Thames, which is lined with pubs and perfect for a summer Sunday walk or, if you head south, you can take a picnic to Wimbledon Common. Hammersmith is a short tube ride away and is home to the Apollo, a great venue for music and comedy gigs. If you want to spend a night watching a show, Putney Arts Theatre puts on community productions regularly.
Places to experience outside London
London has a lot to offer, but there are also a few places just a short train ride away that are worth visiting. Brighton is on the coast and is known for its pier and pebble beach. You could visit Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare and go and see a play at The Swan Theatre. If you want to experience a famous and historic university town, try Oxford.
We hope this guide helps in giving your studies with us more direction, purpose, and structure. London is such an amazing city to study, the career and networking opportunities here are world-class and there are always exciting things to do and places to visit. If you get this balance right with your studies, which is the priority, we’re sure you’ll love studying with us in London.