Secrets for Successful Study

Secrets for Successful Study 2023/2024


General topics to help settling in University life

Finance

One of the issues that seems to concern students initially is how they are going to cope with not having much money and the demands of a hectic social life.

5 TOP TIPS to help you initially with your finances

  1. Open a student bank account - usually some freebie associated with this, but remember to choose wisely (a young person’s railcard is probably more useful than a cheap MP3 player!)
  2. Using your overdraft - your bank will let you have one but remember you will still need to pay it back!
  3. Plan your money, work out how much money you have left after you have paid your accommodation bill and divide it by the number of weeks you are at University and STICK TO IT!
  4. Job opportunities are available, check out job link, a place to find a student friendly job in Leeds. They are located in the entrance to the Union building. Remember if you have a job you should not be working instead of attending University. You may have to cut down some of your social time in order to fit in your work and your study
  5. Take advantage of any offer using your NUS card

More information

Student finance tips, money saving advice, or get some financial help from the students union

Safety

Another issue students are often apprehensive about is safety. Leeds is a large city but generally a safe city.

5 TOP TIPS to help you acclimatize to living in a large city

  1. Security on campus: The University campus has security officers who patrol the site 24 hours a day and an extensive CCTV network. It is a safe campus despite being in the city. It is worth remembering if you bring valuables onto campus please keep them in your bags and not wander around with them on show. When in cafes, the library or lectures make sure you keep your belongings close to you.
  2. Security in your new home: Halls of residence are safe places but remember to lock doors and secure windows before going out or even going into communal areas.
  3. Security on the streets: Be streetwise. In the dark, whether after lectures or in the evening always walk home with friends and never alone. Hyde park provides a shortcut to many halls of residence, but please walk through it with caution (and not alone) whether day or night.
  4. Taking taxi’s: Great and cheap way to travel with friends, often cheaper than public transport, but please check you are using a licensed taxi.
  5. When drinking in bars: Keep your drink in sight at all times, don’t accept drinks from strangers, and pace yourself, especially when discounted drinks are on offer.

More information

For more information read the section on crime on the students union page. Insurance companies often have a few tips and the West Yorkshire Police have a site especially about student safety.