How to get a first at University: Preparation and looking after the Mind, Part 1
With the first term of University soon to be starting or having already started for some of you – I wanted to give you some key actions to get a first.
We will call this part 1 and this guide will be updated in various part across the academic year.
My Credentials
I studied Undergraduate Commmercial Law at the University of Hertfordshire. It is not one of the most prestiguous Universities but you need to work gard to get a first. I scored in the region of 76% overall, consistantly achieving Firsts in assignments and exams from my second Year onwards.
I also completed by Master’s at the University of Southampton in IT and Commerce Law scoring a merit. I messed up my dissertation and narrowly missed out on a distinction.
So I have some good experience and tips to help you through this.
What is a First?
A First class degree is the pinnacle of certifications at University. To those just starting the grading structure is different to college/six form.
A First is classed as a grade of 70% or more overall or for your specific assignment or exam.
Let us make a start now as there are a few actions you can take in September to set you up for this academic year.
Preparation
You have probably heard this one but it is arguably the most important. You need to be ready for the academic year now.
What do I mean by this?
If you have received your course book list or reading guide acquire those books, journal subscriptions or find where the free resources are.
Make sure you check your University journal access before buying your own though!
Whilst you have minimal outgoings before rent, food, alcohol and whatever else make sure you invest in your studies. You are paying a huge amount of money now so make sure you invest some money now. Get your stationary, get your laptop/tablet ready, sign up for Amazon student for free, budget for the entire year so you have no financial worries and make sure you stick to whatever you set.
The Mind
This is your most important asset throughout the year so look after it. During your studies you will see the other students who boast of there all nighter to get a assignment completed or to revise the day before the exam. These people are not looking after their mind and have allowed the pressure and stress to get on top of them. Never do this as you might get lucky but the majority of times you are going to struggle to be productive doing an all nighter.
Staying on top of your finances are essential. The last worry you want to have is a financial one. How can you possibly focus on studying if you are worried you will not have enough for food or rent or your bills. These are your key priorities financially.
Make sure you budget on a weekly basis. Then make sure you can put a small amount aside for other activities and savings if possible. A good idea is to get a temp job prior to University starting, even if it is just a week or two. A weeks wages can go a long way to paying for you food bills.
If you have nailed down your budget and if you stick to it you will not have to worry.
Not having worries throughout you time at University is arguably the most important goal you need to reach. There is no way you can focus on getting a First if you are worrying about everything else.
Part 1 Conclusion
So make sure you are ready. Make sure your finances are the best they can be, make sure you have all your course books, pens, paper, laptop/tablet and make sure you focus your attention on keeping the mind in great shape.
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