A personal guide to thriving during your studies

University life can be overwhelming, especially when balancing multiple subjects, deadlines and a social life. But as a University of London student, I’ve found ways to navigate the obstacles that you might experience, and I’m excited to share these tips that have truly helped me; and I’m confident they could help you too. 

1. Master your time management (even when it feels impossible) 

Manage your time is the golden rule. I used to feel like there was never enough time, but I realised it’s not about having more time, it’s about using it more wisely. Apps like Google Calendar or Notion were life-savers. I love the Pomodoro Technique, where I study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and repeat. It’s amazing how much focus you can gather with just a bit of structure. 

Pro tip: set daily goals that are achievable. It’s better to finish small tasks than to feel overwhelmed by huge deadlines. 

2. Organisation: your best friend 

Trust me, you don’t want to spend hours searching for a missing note before your assessments! Breaking tasks into manageable pieces works wonders. Instead of staring at the full syllabus in panic, break it down into chapters or concepts. I love using Notion for this because I can track my notes, assignments and even to-do lists, all in one place. 

3. Engage with your studies early and actively

I cannot stress this enough: don’t wait until the last minute to start engaging with your study material! The University of London provides lots of resources (study guides, the Online Library, discussion forums)— use them early and often. Engaging with the material early makes you feel more prepared when assignments roll around. 

For example, I found discussing topics on the UoL student forums a game changer. Having peers explain concepts and sharing thoughts really deepened my understanding. Plus, starting assignments early gives you that extra buffer time if anything goes wrong. 

4. Utilise UoL’s Online Community 

One of the best things about UoL is its global network of students. I joined a couple of online study groups, which not only gave me academic support but also introduced me to friends from around the world! This diverse perspective is invaluable when you’re stuck on a topic or need some motivation. Reach out—whether it's through forums, social media, or student groups. 

5. Take care of your mind and body 

Yes, studying is crucial, but don’t forget to take care of yourself. University life can be tough, and burnout is real. I made it a point to schedule time for exercise and relaxation. Whether it’s hitting the gym or just going for a walk, it refreshes your brain and boosts productivity. It’s a simple trick that helps you to manage stress and improve focus. 

6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help 

University can be a lonely place if you keep everything to yourself. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your tutors or academic advisors—they’re there to help! One of my lecturers once said, “there are no silly questions,” and that stuck with me. Whether it’s academic help or just needing advice, don’t be shy. 

7. Stay consistent, not perfect 

University isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Studying consistently beats cramming any day. I used to review notes for at least 30 minutes each day, so by the time assessment week rolled around, I didn’t feel like I was drowning in information. 

8. Celebrate small wins 

The journey through university is filled with challenges. Take the time to celebrate your victories, no matter how small. Finished an assignment? Reward yourself with a treat or a short Netflix break. These small moments of joy keep you motivated and prevent burnout. 

To the readers: 

Being a University of London student comes with its own set of challenges, but with proper planning, self-care and engagement with resources, you can thrive. Remember, your university experience is personal, so find what works best for you and stick to it. University isn’t just about grades, but about growth, balance and creating unforgettable memories All the best on your study journey! 

Yoogheena studies Bachelor of Laws (LLB) in Malaysia.