Starting at university and having to learn to live independently, as well as study independently, can be difficult. If you have low esteem or confidence this challenge can seem gigantic.
Try to remember that lots of students are starting off at the same point so do not think that everyone else is more prepared and independent than you are.
The best thing to do to grow your confidence is to ask questions. There is a lot of information to take in when you first start at university so if you are unsure of anything you must ask.
Try to allow plenty of time for reading, looking up key terms and taking in information and ideas so you feel more prepared at lectures and seminars. Consider our Active Listening workshop where we explain how to listen more effectively, so you do not miss any important information. This will help you feel more in control.
Consider any feedback you receive on your work and then use the Develop@Derby guides to enhance or learn new skills that will help address any weaknesses.
You are not expected to become to become an effective independent learner overnight. It is a skill that will grow as you progress through your course.
If you want a chat with a current student at the University, consider PALS (Peer Assisted Learning.) You can access details about this excellent scheme at this link.
If you are finding everything too overwhelming and need help adjusting to academic life, then please visit the Academic Wellbeing section in Develop@Derby where you will find further help.