Guide: How to survive as a student

“The transition to university life can be challenging. We want to explain what is expected in higher education, present the services we offer at UiA, and help with study techniques and structure in everyday life,” says Marianne Tønnesen.

She is head of the Writing Lounge and a course instructor at UiA PULS (Centre for Teaching and Learning).

Good feedback

From Tuesday 15 August you can take the course on "becoming a student" on your study programme. The courses will run over two weeks and will provide good tips and information to new students from upper secondary schools and those who were new students during the pandemic.

If you are unable to attend, a catch-up course will be held on 30 August. See also the orientation for international students.

“Both students and lecturers have given us positive feedback that the courses have been of great help,” says Tønnesen. 

Searching for knowledge

So, what is the biggest difference between being in secondary school and being a student?

“You no longer have a class teacher to follow up with you on everything you do. No one tells you what to do or what pages to read for tomorrow. You have to take responsibility for your own learning,” Marianne Tønnesen says.

At the Writing Lounge in UiA's library, Marianne Tønnesen helps students learn study techniques. The Writing Lounge also offers courses and guidance on academic writing. Credit: Damares Stenbakk, UiA

On a daily basis she provides support and helps students build better study habits. Tønnesen offers her best advice for university life:

“As a student, you’ll study many hours a week, and those hours aren’t always in lectures. Plan your study time, for example from 8 am to 4 pm. Schedule your day differently if you think it’s better to study in the evening,” she says.

Sometimes you just need a break from studying. It is, after all, part of student life to look for new experiences. Tønnesen suggests looking for voluntary work, an academic society (linjeforening) or a part-time job. It will look good on your CV when you are looking for a job after graduation.

“You’ll gain experience, make friends and get to know the campus,” she says.

2300 students have received offer

Tønnesen encourages everyone to take courses or make use of guidance on taking exams.

Around 2300 students have been offered a course about becoming a student at semester start, but there is still room for more. Most of the courses are held by bachelor's or master's students who will help new students. It is all organised by UiA PULS.

Services for students at UiA:

• The Writing Lounge - a drop-in service to help with academic writing and study techniques
• UiA Career Services - helps with career advice and CV checks
• The University Library - subject librarians help with tips on literature searches in specific subjects
• MatRIC - drop-in service offering help with mathematics
• Special Needs Accommodation - for individuals with special needs or functional impairments