Top Five Things I Wish I Had Known Before Arriving at University

Looking back on my time at WBS, there are several lessons I’ve learned that I wish I’d known from the start. University life is full of opportunities, challenges, and surprises – and while everyone’s journey is unique, I believe these five insights would have made my transition smoother and my overall experience even more rewarding.

Apply early to Spring Weeks, job fairs, and career simulators

One of the biggest things I wish I had known is how early you need to start thinking about your career. In the first year, it’s easy to assume that internships and job applications are far off, but the reality is, that many top firms recruit students early through spring weeks, career simulators, and networking events. These opportunities are not just for gaining experience, they’re often pipelines into future internships and graduate roles. Applying early and being aware of recruitment timelines can open doors to exciting opportunities, help you discover industries you're passionate about, and allow you to build meaningful connections early on.

Take time to explore the resources available to you

WBS offers an incredible range of tools, facilities, and support systems, but many students, including myself, don’t realise the full extent of these until much later. From Bloomberg terminals and online subscriptions like Financial Times, to personal tutors, and skills workshops, there’s so much to take advantage of. I wish I had taken the time earlier on to explore these resources and integrate them into my routine. Even something as simple as attending skills workshops or drop-in clinics can make a huge difference in your academic and professional development.

Be open to new hobbies and activities

Coming to university is a fresh start, and one of the best parts is the chance to explore new interests. I initially stuck with what I was comfortable with and didn’t branch out as much as I could have. But some of the best moments during university came from unexpected places, trying out salsa classes or attending craft workshops I never thought I’d be good at. Keeping an open mind helped me grow more confident and well-rounded. You never know where a new hobby might lead, it could even open-up surprising career paths or lifelong friendships.

Don’t overcrowd your life and make time for yourself

At university, especially in a high-achieving environment like WBS, it’s easy to get caught in the rush of doing everything: classes, societies, job applications, and social events. But I learned that burnout is real. There’s a lot of pressure to “make the most of it,” but that doesn’t mean saying yes to everything. One of the most valuable things you can do is schedule time for rest, reflection, and self-care. Taking a walk, reading a book, or simply doing nothing is not time wasted, it’s essential for maintaining your mental health and keeping your motivation sustainable over the long term.

Take advantage of student discounts and job opportunities

University life can be expensive, but there are so many ways to save if you know where to look. Whether it’s student discounts for travel, tech subscriptions, food apps, or even events in Leamington or Coventry, small savings really add up. On top of that, there are plenty of flexible job opportunities on campus that many students overlook. Platforms like Unitemps make it easy to find part-time roles within the university, from event staffing to research assistant jobs, that can fit around your timetable and help you earn while you study. I wish I had known earlier how accessible these options were, as they’re a great way to build experience and ease financial pressure.

Looking back, these are the things that truly shaped my experience at WBS. Knowing where to focus your energy; whether it's career planning, personal growth, or making smart choices with your time and money, can help you get the most out of university. It’s all about being intentional, exploring what’s out there, and not being afraid to ask for help along the way.