5 ways to get ready for University

29 January 2021

Welcome to the University of West London! It’s the start of a new semester– and we couldn’t be more excited about having you join us.

We thought it would be useful to highlight some ways you can get ready. Here are five ways to prepare for the start of a new semester.

1. Have a look through our online tools

We’ve provided a whole host of online learning resources to support you in your studies. These include:

Blackboard – your virtual learning environment
Turnitin – submit work, access feedback and grades
UWL Replay – stream lectures
MacMillan Skills for Study – online workshops to boost your academic skills
LinkedIn Learning – career-focused online workshops to supplement your course

We recommend having a browse of the ‘Getting Ready for Academic study’ section in the MacMillan Skills for Study platform. You need to choose ‘University of West London’ from the Institution Login and then log in with your UWL ID.

Head over to our Online Learning Tools page for more information.

2. Sign up for an academic workshop

It can be daunting starting university, and you may be nervous about the level of work being asked of you. Don’t be – our Study Support Team is always on hand to help.

You can go to them for support throughout the year. But to help you hit the ground running, they’re running workshops in four common areas of study that students often struggle with. Check them out:

The workshops are taking place on 1, 2 and 3 February at different times each day.

3. Explore the online guides and resources available to support your academic skills

There are also study support resources online that you can explore at your own pace. These include a whole bunch of really helpful guides that walk you through the nitty gritty of academic work.

These include:

Find out more about our study support.

4. Browse the Library

Get used to the Library – you’ll be needing it! But don’t worry we’ve provided loads of great guidance and support so that you can find what you’re looking for. Check out our Welcome Guide to help you get started.

There are also great new ways for you to access resources, including via our vast online digital library, through ‘Click and collect’, ‘Postal loans’ and ‘Scan it for me’.

5. Know how to get support

At UWL, we have a saying – need help, just ask. It’s that simple. That means, if you’re struggling with anything, you can ask anyone at UWL, and they will help you to find the support you need.

Having said that, we do also have specific services and resources to help you with a whole range of issues – from wellbeing and counselling services to advice about money and jobs.

You can also access 24/7 peer-to-peer wellbeing support via the Togetherall app.

Find out more about our student services.