Blog: Finding my rhythm and navigating Uni life one day at a time
Written by Biological Sciences student Wissal, who is part of our international student community.
I’ve always dreamed of studying abroad, and with the support of my parents, that dream became a reality. Now, I’m working towards a future in cancer research, a field I’m really passionate about.
University life is exciting, but let’s be honest, it can also be overwhelming. From keeping up with assignments and lectures to trying to maintain a social life and look after yourself, there’s a lot going on. At first, it all felt like too much. But building a routine helped me manage my time better and feel more in control. Here’s a look at how I’ve learned to navigate uni life, one day at a time.
1. Creating a Daily Planner and Having a Routine
Planning my day in advance has made a huge difference. I use sticky notes or a notebook to write down my tasks and stick them somewhere visible. As I go through the day, I cross things off, it gives me a sense of achievement and keeps me focused.
My daily plan usually includes upcoming deadlines, revision time, lectures, and even short breaks for things I enjoy. Knowing what I need to do (and when) helps me feel more organised and less anxious.
2. Attending Lectures and Seminars Regularly
One of the best decisions I made was committing to attending all my lectures and seminars. When you skip sessions, it’s easy to fall behind, and catching up later can be stressful, especially when everyone else is already moving ahead.
As someone whose first language isn’t English, I also found that relying on lecture recordings alone wasn’t always helpful. Being physically present in class helped me understand the material better and engage with it more confidently. During revision, it’s easier to recall topics I learned in person, I remember the slides, the discussions, and how the lecturer explained things.
3. Getting Involved in Campus Activities
Studying is important, but so is making time for fun. The university has a vibrant student community with events and activities happening all the time. These moments have really helped me unwind, make friends, and feel more at home.
I often join painting workshops, craft nights, and even pet therapy sessions (which are a dream if you love dogs!). The Green Heart hosts amazing seasonal events, from markets to carnival games. Plus, societies like the Islamic Society, Sikh Society, and Christian Society hold regular events in the tent near Old Joe, offering a chance to learn about different cultures and beliefs.
4. Weekend Reset Routine
Weekends are my time to reset and recharge. On Saturdays, I do my grocery shopping, clean my room, and get any errands done. Sundays are more relaxed, I might go out with friends, explore Birmingham, or try food from different cultures. It’s my way of disconnecting from uni stress so I can start the new week feeling fresh and focused.
5. Looking After Myself
As an international student, homesickness is real, and it hits when you least expect it. What’s helped me is developing small self-care habits: cooking comfort meals, watching movies, or talking to my friends on the phone and debriefing. Even just having quiet time to myself has helped me stay mentally balanced.
University can feel like a lot, but with a bit of structure and some time for yourself, it becomes more manageable, and even enjoyable. These habits helped me through my first year, and I hope they inspire you to build your own rhythm at uni.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for ways to reset, remember: take it one day at a time, and you’ve got this!