Self-Confidence: a feeling of trust in one's abilities, qualities, and judgement
Preparation
One way to improve your confidence at university is to be well-prepared for your course and its content. Attending lectures, reading ahead, and completing assignments early can give you confidence in your academic abilities and reduce your stress and anxiety surrounding academia.
Another tool that you should be mindful of is your voice! Don’t hesitate to ask questions in class, visit your lecturers during office hours, or seek additional tutoring if you’re struggling with your subject. If you are a first/ foundation year student, you can access this support directly from the Peer Assisted Learning scheme, please view the PAL Scheme page for additional information. There is no shame in asking for help, so be sure to utilise your different support networks at the university!
Some further resources that are of great use are the Skills Workshops which cover information on Exams, Citations and Skills that you can develop at university. Check out the full skills workshop timetable here
Embrace Change
University is a place of growth and exploration. You should try to participate in new activities, join societies, or take on an internship or volunteer at the university! Taking risks and stepping outside your comfort zone builds confidence over time and widens your experiences greatly.
You can expand your social circle these ways which can boost your confidence in social situations and help you feel connected to the wider community at the university.
Health & Wellbeing
For more information, or if you require any additional help on your health & wellbeing at university, please use the Student Services to access additional support.
Celebrating Success
You should always celebrate your own success! Celebrating your success as a student is crucial for your personal growth and motivation. It reinforces the hard work you've put in and boosts your confidence, helping you stay motivated for future challenges.
When you take a moment to acknowledge your achievements (both big and small!) it reminds you of the progress you've made, which encourages a positive mindset towards your progress in your degree. Recognising your success also improves your mental well-being, through providing a sense of fulfillment. And by celebrating your accomplishments, no matter their size, you create a habit of appreciating your growth and progress, making it easier to continue striving for excellence.