As a student it’s hard to ignore the importance and heavy academic waiting of your final year - often worth 80% of your overall grade. Although you may feel the pressure now, your final year can feel the same as any other, with just a few more responsibilities and pressures to manage.
So, what makes your final year different?
- Your final year equivalates to a UK Level 6 qualification, meaning your assessment requirements are stricter and a little more complex.
- Many subject areas undertake a research project (otherwise known as a dissertation) which has a higher word count and greater research depth than the assignments you carry out in your first and second year.
- You also have decisions to make about what you want to do post-study, whether that be further education, full-time employment, or a gap year – don’t worry if you’re unsure, there is plenty of time and many opportunities to take to help and decide!
Plan your weeks in advance
Time efficiency is key to organising your responsibilities and lessening stress in final year. Many students treat their last year of university like a nine-to-five job, so spend these core hours studying. You will have to manage a hefty study workload alongside any extra-curricular activities such as societies, part-time work, and your social life. This may seem daunting, but it’s not impossible with the right time management.
Remember, it’s all about getting into a routine and finding what works for you. Try using a physical or electronic calendar to schedule your time wisely - your assignments, appointments, events, and work commitments. Time blocking can help allocate tasks to ensure success across all modules. It's best to start your assignments three to six weeks in advance of the deadline, to give yourself plenty of time. A physical diary being used as a daily planner can help make study time more effective, alongside allowing time for social life and self-care.
If you're writing a dissertation, pick a topic you are genuinely interested in, as this will make the whole process easier. Try to stay ahead on it, as it’s easy to get behind. Your tutor is there to help you, so make the most of that mentorship and book ahead for catch up sessions with them.
Self-care
Make time for your wellbeing! It can be easy to become consumed by university work and forget to make taking care of yourself a priority. By not making this mistake you’ll be less stressed and more productive. Try implementing these positive lifestyle habits to improve your wellbeing in your final year.
- Get enough sleep - adults require between seven and nine hours to recharge effectively!
- Exercise has been found to improve your cognitive performance. This will mean different things to different people, but going to the gym or going for a walk and getting some fresh air are good options. Walking to campus before morning classes can be a mindful way to start the day and improve your motivation to study as well.
- How healthy are you being at university? Try meal prepping healthy meals to effectively manage your time and money. Perhaps try a new nutritional soup or filling casserole.
- And if you do find that you're struggling and need support, don't forget that you can always contact the Student Wellbeing team.
What should final year students take advantage of?
The Careers and Employment Service
This is the team that can help get you ‘graduate-job-ready’ and help you gain a diverse skillset. Make contact, and you can receive one-to-one support and online resources, on an array of topics including:
- Writing applications and CVs, preparing for interviews, and assessment centres
- Careers advice
- Developing skills and building experience
- Finding jobs and opportunities
- Internships - these are paid work experience opportunities to help you become more employable once you graduate.
Find out more about the Careers and Employment Service
Student discounts
The final year of studying also means the last year of student discounts, so make the most of these savings! Always keep your student card with you, as you never know when there’s an opportunity to save some coins. Buying a TOTUM (NUS extra) card can be handy to access specific discounts, like 10% off at the Co-Op too. There is no harm in asking retailers if they offer a student discount. Remember, if you don’t ask, you don’t get.
Also make sure to check local government student advice to ensure you're getting any council tax reductions you're entitled for. It all adds up...
Fun!
Allow yourself to socialise with your friends at university. Derby has numerous fantastic bars and restaurants that are perfect for students to enjoy. Perhaps make a list of places you still want to explore before graduating? It’s never too late to join a club or make new friends. Is there a Union of Students society you have been considering joining? This is your year to push yourself out of your comfort zone and join in!
What comes next?
Many students worry about the future in their final year. This is completely normal, after three or more years of education it can be very overwhelming to leave a well-established routine. Remember, what will be will be. (Very cliché, I know!) However, there are some proactive steps you can take while at university.
- Create a LinkedIn profile, if you have not done so already. This platform is a fantastic way to connect with lecturers and classmates before graduation. Additionally, it can be a great idea to update your CV, so it is ready to send to your dream employer.
- Between all the demands on your time, it's important to reflect on your successes. For many students, university is a time to grow yourself as a person from a social, academic, or professional perspective. Before graduating, take the time to reward yourself for everything you have achieved during this crazy journey!
Those are our tips on how to make the most of the last stage of university. Remember that everyone has their own path to success. Good luck for your final year!
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