Students' and Parents' Experiences
A Mature Student's Advice
Being a mature student with a family my choice of University was limited due to the travelling but I was thrilled to be accepted at Sheffield. Take advantage of the mature student Welcome Days and lunches which are a great way to meet other mature students who you will see around the campus whilst you move from one lecture to the other.
The best advice I can give you as a student coming to Sheffield is to read all the information you are sent very carefully and make notes on the important times and dates. Try to arrive early as you are advised. I picked up my registration pack just after the opening time and the registration process itself took only ten minutes. You will hear stories about queues but if you arrive early this can be avoided. A pilot scheme to register with the computer department before registration was really beneficial. It enabled access to the email system, reading lists and Web CT which is where all the information for your course is stored. Having a go is the best way to learn.
For the first couple of weeks I felt like I didn´t know where I should be or what I should be doing but things settled down and I soon got into a routine. Meeting fellow students on my course was not a problem and I was accepted straight away. Life experiences of a mature student can bring a lot to discussions during seminars. There is plenty of help and support available and you will get a personal tutor who you can discuss any concerns with.
I took advantage of the `mentoring´ scheme which paired me up with a mature student who is in her second year. We meet for a coffee and discuss any issues or concerns as well as advice on essay planning etc. The Careers Service has a great deal to offer and their experienced staff can offer assistance with CVs as well as advice on career choices you may not even have considered. Do try to get involved in the numerous activities that are going on whether it´s the nightlife, sport or the `Union´s Give it a Go´ scheme where you can try, for example, archery, break dancing or video editing. There is something for everyone.
I have joined the netball team and everyone is really friendly and welcoming. I must go as I have to plan my cavewoman outfit for the netball social event next week!
Kerry Long
Criminology & Social Policy
First Year