Once you start properly settling into university life, it can be tricky to feel like you belong or see Belfast as your home for the next few years! Don’t worry, it’s completely normal to have not found your people or your passions yet. Whether you’re new to Queen’s, returning after a few years or coming back from your placement year – the transition can be a shock to the system.  

Settling In - Finding Your Feet Away from Home: 

Moving into halls or living by yourself for the first time can be daunting and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by things you’ve never done before. Whether it’s setting up your Wi-Fi, paying your rent on time every month or making your own meals – there’s lots to wrap your head around.  

If you’re living in Queen's Accommodation, there’s support available from your Residential Assistants – reach out to them for help with any and all problems concerning your time as a resident. If you haven’t made best friends in your flat or your course, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and sign up for trips or activities. They’re great ways to meet people who are looking for the same thing and to have fun & explore at the same time. You can find details of what’s available through your accommodation. 

If you’re feeling homesick, it’s difficult to make the most of your Queen’s experience. I know it’s hard to do but try and throw yourself into as many activities as you can. When I first came to Queen’s, I loved the first few months and made great friends in my flat but quickly found I was missing home more and more. If you live close and can go home at the weekend, try to stay in Belfast occasionally instead – you may find that you meet a whole new group of people who are doing the same. 

Getting Used to Life at Queen’s: 

If it’s your first time at Uni or you’re coming back after a break, getting used to the academic side can be daunting. From paying attention in lectures, participating in tutorials to independent study, there’s lots to wrap your head around.  

When the time comes to submit your first assignment(s), it’s important to remember that your lecturers are there to help you reach your potential. If you’re unsure about some of the material or have any questions, take advantage of smaller teaching groups and don’t be afraid to reach out to your lecturer. It’s also vital to remind yourself that the initial assignments are usually designed to give you feedback and allow you to improve in the next one - try your best but don’t put too much pressure on yourself! Once you’ve received your feedback, it’s essential to get the most out of it. Make sure to identify any weak points and areas for improvement in order to do even better in the future. If you’re unsure about anything, reach out for clarification.  

The social aspect of university is one of the highlights – however, it can be difficult to adapt to the changing dynamics after your initial introduction. It’s important to keep reaching out to people you’ve met in the first few weeks and try to make plans outside of the context you met them in (lectures, societies, work etc.). Try inviting them for lunch, a coffee, a pint after class or something you both enjoy – this way, you can make lasting connections and build a real friendship.  

You’re Not Alone - Support Services to Help You Thrive at Uni: 

If you’re struggling with any aspect of settling in at Queen’s, there’s great student support available in the Students' Union. Take advantage of the drop-in sessions the SU Advice team offers – they will give you free and confidential advice about academic and non-academic issues. It’s independent of the University and, even if they’re not the right people to ask, they will direct you to the team that is.  

For specific support, there’s various services available throughout the University who are on hand to help you. Reach out to them as soon as you feel you may be struggling; every team is designed to make your time at Queen’s as happy and as smooth as possible. 

Student Wellbeing offers physical, emotional and mental health assistance with a drop-in system over the academic year (you can find them on level one in One Elmwood). Accessible Learning Support helps students with disabilities, a working diagnosis and long-term conditions – just apply through the application process. Learning Development Service focuses on academic support for Undergraduates – if you’re struggling with any aspect of your course, consider booking a one-to-one appointment. Careers, Employability & Skills are there for any support concerning life and work after Queen’s – it can also come in useful if you’re applying for placement or internships.  

You can find a comprehensive list of all the departments offering support here. 

The first month at Uni can feel like a whirlwind and it’s completely normal to feel out of place sometimes, but it’s important to remember that everyone else is experiencing this as well - no-one expects you to have figured everything out. Don’t be afraid to reach out for support when you need it and get involved (even in small ways) as much as you can. It won’t be long until Belfast feels like home, and you’ll be looking back fondly at your time at Queen’s.  

By Jamie Burley

BSc Business Management (Final Year)