Here are the top ten myth-busting questions that we have selected to alleviate worries and concerns about life at university. The myth-busters quiz on the previous page is linked to these questions, so if you have not attempted the quiz already, you can test your knowledge after reading through these myths. The quiz has the opportunity to gain a certificate at the end which you can share with friends, or print off!
1: I'm the only one who doesn't get it, everyone else knows what they're doing.
FALSE! Lots of students are starting at the same point so do not think that everyone else is more prepared and independent than you are. If you have a question to ask, it is likely many others do too but aren't asking it.
2: The university provides me with Microsoft 365 for free.
TRUE! You will be able to access the whole suite of Microsoft apps for free throughout your time at the University of Derby. This includes access to OneDrive.
3: Only the best students should aim for the first-class criteria.
FALSE! All students should aim high in the marking criteria, as this allows the opportunity to develop skills. Plus, if you do not aim high, you never stand a chance at getting a first.
4: My first year doesn't count.
FALSE! The outcome of your first year may not count towards your final degree classification. However, using the first year to develop your academic writing and other skills is incredibly important and the best way to ensure success in years two and three! Also, for some 'year abroad'.
5: I will meet all of my friends in freshers week.
FALSE! Students feel pressure to find their 'circle' in their first week at university but whilst the people you meet during freshers can leave a lasting impression, there are lots of other ways to meet like-minded people through clubs, societies, your course and your hobbies!
6: I have to choose between having a social life and studying.
FALSE! Your time at University is all about striking the right balance between studying, working, resting and socialising. Have a look at our Time Management guide or attend our workshop to find out how to prioritise your time and spend your time doing what is most important to you.
7: I am a failure if I have to repeat a year or a module.
FALSE! Students face many challenges throughout their time at university and some students may need to repeat a module or year. If this happens, you will be supported to overcome any challenges so that you can succeed the next time. This does not mean you are a failure, more that you have failed the first attempt and you will have another opportunity.
8: I need to read everything on my resource list.
FALSE! Resource lists are very useful for your pre-reading but the lists are often long and contain sources that overlap. Reading everything from your reading list would take more time than you have available, and would cause you pressure that may mean you fall behind.
9: I should not use other people’s work without crediting it.
TRUE! All work written or created by someone else should be referenced. Cite Them Right can help with referencing and as a University of Derby student you can access this resource for free.
10: Accessing support will count against my marks and will be on my transcript.
FALSE! Accessing support does not affect your grades in any way! Your work is graded using a learning outcome rubric to help staff decide your grades, and your transcript at the end will have no reference to any support provided.