Transitioning to University
Transitioning to University
Transitioning to University can be a wonderful and exciting experience but it can also be very overwhelming. Browse our resources below to discover ways in which to make your transition to university smoother and more enjoyable.
1. Browse a complete guide on navigating student life
Student Minds have prepared a brilliant transition guide for students. This has info on academic studies, money, identity and more. We recommend you take the time to read through.
2. Watch our video on how to organise your inbox
This is a really important 10 minute video on how to organise your e-mail inbox – definitely worth a watch! Thanks to Final Year student George Grammer-Taylor for preparing this video.
3. Hear top tips from past Sussex alumni
Bianca
Graduate Entry LLB
Bianca joined the Canadian Law Society and took part in mooting competitions during her time at Sussex. Hear how these activities enhanced her academic studies.
Jannis
LLB Law
Watch Jannis describe her three top tips for succeeding with a Law degree, including not comparing yourself with others, dealing with stress, and not being afraid to ask for help.
Ryan
International Human Rights Law LLM
One of Ryan’s tips to new students is to use their first year wisely. Activities like junior advocacy competitions help open doors in subsequent years.
Victor
Law with Business LLM
In this video, Victor advises making sure to speak up in seminars – even if you haven’t completed all the reading, it’s better to speak up and get something wrong than not contribute.
4. Read 'Three things I wish I had known before starting University'
How should I address teaching faculty in the UK?
See the visual on the right for formal positions. In terms of addressing faculty day to day, best thing to do is ask how they would like to be addressed. Some of your lecturers, seminar tutors will be very happy to be addressed on a first name basis, others prefer a more formal address such as ‘Dr X’.
See the visual below for formal positions. In terms of addressing faculty day to day, best thing to do is ask how they would like to be addressed. Some of your lecturers, seminar tutors will be very happy to be addressed on a first name basis, others prefer a more formal address such as ‘Dr X’.
What do different grades mean in the UK?
70% (also called a first class) is an excellent grade at university in the UK. You may need to adjust your expectations and understanding from prior educational experiences. The table on the right explains the differences between marks.
What is reading week?
Reading Week is, generally, a break from contact teaching hours. In reading week you are expected to catch up with module reading and prepare for upcoming assignments.
It is not a holiday; use it wisely!
Contact me
Get in touch with v.ni-drisceoil@sussex.ac.uk if you have any questions or are unable to access any of the material available.