Looking back: What I wish I knew in my first term at WBS

Starting university is exciting, nerve-wracking, and a little bit overwhelming. Looking back, there are a few things I wish my first-term self had known. So, for all the freshers and future freshers, here is my take on navigating your first term at WBS. 

Say yes to opportunities 

One thing that sets WBS apart is the incredible range of opportunities it offers outside of lectures. This is something that I did not fully appreciate until my second year, when I realised how much I had missed out on. There is a range of WBS-affiliated societies, like Warwick Business School Society, Finance Society and Warwick Consulting Society, which host events with industry leaders and potential employers boosting your personal and professional growth. I became involved with the Staff Student Liaison Committee in my second year, but looking back, I wish I had turned up to more events and put myself out there sooner. 

The events, like industry expert talks or career fairs, are amazing opportunities to network. Networking doesn’t have to be awkward, it can be as simple as a casual chat during a workshop. The important thing is to show up, as you never know where one conversation might lead. That person may become a mentor to you, or help you secure an internship. 

Join a society 

Whether you’re into marketing or fencing, Warwick’s Society Fair will have something for you. Don’t just go for the free gifts, actually sign up for things that interest you. Even if you do not consider yourself the ‘joiner’ type, I highly encourage you to explore. You do not need to be extremely passionate to sign up for a society, just try something new as you might find your next hobby. Even if you decide it is not for you, you are still going to meet some great people. 

The wide variety of societies—from professional networks to baking clubs, cultural communities, and dance groups, means there is something for everyone. Don’t be scared to explore different societies throughout the year to find what you enjoy. 

Stay on top of your university work 

Yes, university is about studying, but that doesn’t mean that you must spend every hour of your day in the library. In my first term, I quickly realised that balance is everything, so I created a study schedule with social time and rest taken into consideration. This helped me space out my revision and stay ahead without burning out. Do what works for you, whether that’s colour-coded calendars, study apps or a simple paper planner. 

Active learning is also so important. Copying lecture slides or reading passively is not enough, you need to actually engage with the content. Quiz yourself, teach theories to a friend or join a study group. Studying with others helps hold you accountable and can often help you finally understand the content that made no sense the night before. 

People may say things like first year ‘doesn’t count’ but that is not true. First year is when you lay the foundation for your degree and the habits you develop now will carry you through it. Trust me, you do not want to be scrambling later. 

Above all… enjoy it! 

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, do not allow the pressure of grades or career plans to overshadow your university experience. It’s completely ok to not have everything figured out. When I first arrived, I felt behind each time I met someone who seemed to have their career plan planned out. But, since then, I have learnt that university is exactly the time to find out what you like, not prove what you already do. When things feel tough, which they might, remember that most of us are figuring it out as we go. Be kind to yourself, and make your WBS journey count.