University (commonly referred to as Uni.) is very different to secondary school. As students you are expected to take responsibility for your own learning, in an environment that is very different to what you've experienced before, especially if you are an international student.

Below is a list of some of the more common issues faced by students:

• Learning and Teaching: The style of teaching at university is very different to school. You will attend a mixture of lectures, tutorials and lab classes. You may work in large groups, small groups and individually. Some of your lectures may be delivered to hundreds of students at once in large lecture theatres and other classes in small seminar rooms.
• Independence: You are expected to be responsible for your own learning and to mange your time carefully. Ensure that you attend all your classes and plan your study time. Start assignments early and make sure you know exactly when all your work is due to be handed in.
• Assessment: Classes have different assessment tasks. You may be expected to write a lab report, or an essay, give an oral presentation, complete an exam.
• Grades/marks: Achieving high marks at university is difficult. All of the students in your classes were amongst the highest achieving students in their school too, so we expect a high standard of work.
• Volume and pace: Depending on your subjects you might find that the amount of work, and the speed at which you need to learn, increases noticeably. It takes a while to learn how to take good notes quickly.
• Contact hours: You will have a very full timetable of around 20 class hours per week, and then be expected to study and research after class for around another 28 hours per week.
• Language: Lecturers may often speak very quickly and use words that are unfamiliar. Make sure that you read your text books and subject guides so that you see the words written, as well as hear them spoken. Practice your language skills as often as possible.

This might all sound a bit scary, but it is fun too. Remember that everyone else is new too and is probably feeling the same way you do. Ask lots of questions, read your emails and websites and text books. If you need help with anything ASK! You are always welcome to come to the Faculty or department offices for advice. If we don't know the answer, we will know who does!

Your lecturers and tutors are usually very happy to help with academic issues. Just remember that they have a lot of students and other demands on their time, so make an appointment to see them by phone, email, or check their consultation hours on their office door. When you go to the appointment, have a specific and direct question - and do this early, not just the day before your assignment is due!