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Academic support
Excel in your studies with our guide, providing practical tips on time management, exam prep, and accessing university resources for students.
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University academics can feel challenging, but with the right support, you can thrive. Whether you’re tackling a complex dissertation, revising for exams, or struggling with assignments, we’ve got you covered.
Unifresher’s Academic Support guides are designed to simplify the process and boost your confidence. We provide step-by-step advice and resources to help you stay on top of your studies. Make academic success achievable with our practical tips and expert insights.
Your dissertation is a major milestone in your academic journey, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. From choosing the perfect topic to structuring your research, we’ll guide you through every step of the process. Explore our tips for staying organised and producing a dissertation you’re proud of.
Preparing for exams requires effective time management and study strategies. We share revision techniques, stress-busting tips, and ways to stay motivated during exam season. Let Unifresher help you ace your exams with confidence.
Start revising at least four to six weeks before your exams to give yourself enough time to cover all topics. Create a revision timetable to allocate specific days to each subject, prioritising the areas you find most challenging. Spacing out your revision sessions helps retain information more effectively than cramming.
Use active learning techniques such as creating flashcards, summarising notes, and teaching concepts to someone else. Practice past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and identify areas where you need improvement. Break your study sessions into manageable chunks with regular breaks to avoid burnout.
Stay organised by creating a clear revision schedule and setting achievable goals. Take regular breaks, eat healthily, and get enough sleep to maintain your energy and focus. Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing, or light exercise can also help reduce stress levels.
Review key concepts and avoid learning new material at the last minute. Prepare everything you’ll need for the exam, including stationery and your student ID. Get a good night’s sleep to ensure you feel rested and focused for the day ahead.
Set clear goals and reward yourself for achieving them, such as taking a break or enjoying a treat. Surround yourself with supportive friends or study groups to stay accountable. Visualising your success and focusing on the long-term benefits of doing well can also boost motivation.
Got more questions? Check out our Academic Support FAQ Hub for answers written by real students.
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University academics are tough, but they’re also where you can shine the most. The key is finding a balance between preparation, self-care, and asking for help when needed.
Connor, Editor
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Hi I’m Sophie! I’m a creative writing student currently studying in London. I love writing both fiction ranging from short stories to flash fiction and non-fiction consisting mainly of book reviews. In my spare time aside from writing fiction I'm usually head down into a book or two.
Top tip for students? You deserve to be exactly where you are and deserve to want more. Always be willing to take on opportunities that will help you move forward in your career.
Hi I'm Mia, a History & Sociology Student studying in Manchester. My current favourite hobby is taking photos of rave culture at events with my friends in the city, as an EDM music lover myself. I love to post my pictures on my personal blog and fall into wormholes on Pinterest. If I'm not with a camera in hand, I'm probably curled up with a cuppa creating another vision board collage.
Top tip for students? Don't let bad grades in your first year get you down too much. It is such a huge step up from the school system and everyone, even the overachievers (me) need time to adjust. Academic validation isn't everything, but you are capable of anything if you take it one step at a time!
Hi, I'm Rachel! I'm a student at the University of Exeter and I study French and International Relations. When I'm not doing my seminar prep, I'm either reading a good fiction book, listening to a pop culture podcast or on the New York Times website! I enjoy writing the articles and guides I wished I had when I first started university.
Top tip for students? Make use of your professors' office hours as much as you can!
Hi, I'm Aiden! I'm a student at the University of Manchester studying Medicine! I'm passionate about writing and sharing my experiences to try and keep students well-informed. When I'm not in lecture or at the library, you can find me spending time with my friends, hiking on a scenic trail in the Peak District or in my flat's common room writing with a snack in hand.
Top tip for students? Ask why and how, and link new material to things you already know; don't just commit things to memory. A deeper understanding will help you remember, apply, and perform better.
Hi I’m Thea! I'm an undergrad anthropology student at the SOAS. I love all things pop culture, going to concerts, journaling and reading romance books.
Top tip for students? Time management is key - waiting until the deadline to start your assignment will only make your life harder (trust me I would know).
I'm Lola, an English Literature student in Bangor University. I'm passionate about Wesh culture, and poetry.
Top tip for students? Always make sure you find a good study space! It'll help you get your work done easier.
Hiya! I'm Jessica and I'm studying English at Ulster University where I spend most of my days trying out the local coffee shops with a good book in hand. My course allows me to do the thing I love (reading) both inside and outside of the classroom!
Top tip for students? Get involved! This is a fantastic way to make friends as well as elevate your uni experience.
I’m currently an English and Classics student in Birmingham. I’m an avid reader, and I love everything from modern French classics to ancient Greek poetry. In my free time, I also like gaming, art, and listening to music with my trusty noise-cancelling headphones!
Top tip for students? Try as many new things as you can! It may seem intimidating, especially if you’re in a new place or on your own, but stepping outside your comfort zone can lead you to discover things you love.
Hi I'm Emily and I'm a journalism student currently studying at Sheffield Hallam University. I've been in love with writing since I was ten, back when all my stories involved vampires. These days, I love writing about the realities of student life - sharing honest experiences and perspectives to help others. I'm also a big fan of long walks, live music, and Wes Anderson films!
Top tip for students? It's okay to take your time - university might feel weird at first, but it will settle. Go at your own pace and prioritise your mental health.
Hi, I'm Tori! I'm a recent Business & Management graduate from UWE Bristol. I'm an avid concert attendee outside (and alongside...) my studies, with my favourite genre being K-pop! As I take my first steps into a professional career, I'm using writing to bridge the transition between full-time academic writing to a corporate lifestyle.
Top tip for students? Don't get complacent! University might seem to take a step back and seem more chill than college but it's never too early to prepare for things, and there aren't always times when you will be prompted to start, so stay vigilant, and stay ahead. Good luck!
Hi! I’m Bea, and I’m a master’s student, studying History at Durham University. When I’m not studying or writing, you can usually find me listening to music, trying new recipes, or getting involved with theatre at uni. I love all things arts and culture, and will get involved at any opportunity.
Top tip for students? Throw yourself into everything! If it interests you, give it a go - you never know where new opportunities will take you.