Your guide to settling into college life
Starting college is a big step. There are new subjects, new people, new independence, and a new way of working.
It’s normal to feel excited, nervous, or even a bit lost in the first few weeks.
Here are some tips and reminders to help you settle in, feel at home and make the most of college life.
Find your feet
These first few weeks are all about finding your rhythm – and your way around campus!
Now you have your timetable, you’ll get to see what your week looks like and which rooms your lessons will be in. It’s also a good idea to sniff out the campus café, library and study spaces. Don’t panic if you don’t remember where everything is – everyone’s learning the layout, too.
The first classes are usually introductions, not full-on lessons, so you can ease yourself into this new routine and get to know your new classmates. You’ll meet people from different schools, backgrounds, and interests. Say hi to the person next to you – they’re probably just as nervous – and join in with icebreakers (yes, even the cheesy ones!)
Top Tip: Everyone feels a little out of place in Week 1. By Week 3, you’ll wonder why you worried so much.
Get involved with enrichment
College isn’t just about classes and coursework, it’s also about trying new things and meeting people.
There are so many different enrichment opportunities you can sign up to while at college. Whether you’re sporty, creative, or want to make a difference, there’s something for everyone.
Enrichment looks great on CVs and uni applications, but more importantly, it helps you make new friends and feel part of the college community.
From the 8th to 12th September, we’re running enrichment week where you can join activities during lessons, breaks, and lunchtimes, or take part in friendly competitions and challenges.
Top tip: Try at least one activity outside your course. You might discover a new interest (or even a new group of friends).
Your wellbeing matters
College life can be busy, so looking after yourself is key to enjoying your time here.
Try to balance study, social life, and downtime, and remember it’s okay to say “no” sometimes. Building a healthy routine will help stop you from burning out.
If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or just need someone to talk to, support is available. Your tutor is here to talk to throughout your time at college, and we have a great student support team who can help with anything, big or small.
In the first week of October, we’ll be running a wellbeing week with workshops, relaxation sessions, and access to mentoring and counselling.
Top tip: Don’t wait until things feel overwhelming. Asking for help early makes a big difference.
Swap don’t drop
Sometimes the course you picked doesn’t feel like the right fit – and that’s okay. Some of you chose your course over a year ago. Things change. We get it.
If you’re considering changing courses, speak to your tutor or the admissions/support team as soon as possible. There’s often a window in the first few weeks where changes can be made smoothly.
From 22nd to 26th September, we’ll be running one-to-one sessions for students considering a course change. It might be that you swap to a lower level, opt for an apprenticeship if you’d prefer to work while studying, or change the subject entirely – dependent on spaces being available on a new course.
Top tip: Don’t struggle in silence. If something feels wrong, talk it through and remember you’ve got options.
Share your voice
Your college experience is a two-way street: your feedback is important to us as it helps us make your experience better.
There are lots of ways to share your views throughout the college year. But we will also be running a feedback week from 15th to 19th September where we’ll be sending out that’s feedback surveys where you can tell us what’s working well and what could be improved, and organising class discussions with tutors to talk openly about your course, lessons, and support.
Parents and carers are also invited to attend information evenings to better understand your course, meet staff, and learn how to support you at home.
Rotherham College parent and carer information evening
North Notts College parent and carer information evening
Dearne Valley College parent and carer information evening
Top tip: Don’t wait for a survey. If you’ve got an idea or a concern, talk to your tutor or student services any time.
Think about your future
It might seem too early to think about the future when you’ve literally just started college, but your choices now will help shape your next steps.
Our careers team can help with CVs, apprenticeships, part-time jobs, and essential job skills to support your career goals. They’re also organising employability workshops and a careers fair for week commencing 29th September with employers, universities, and apprenticeship providers.
If university or higher education is part of your plan, then make sure you visit the HE fair from 13th to 17th October. We’ll be running workshops and Q&A sessions on university courses, apprenticeships, and funding options, and will be joined by representatives from partner unis like Huddersfield and Sheffield Hallam to help you plan your next steps.
Top tip: Start keeping a record of skills and activities now as it’ll make future UCAS or job applications much easier.
Quick tips for a smooth start
- Keep your ID card and lanyard with you – you’ll need it often.
- Take a photo of your timetable until you know it by heart.
- Ask questions – no one expects you to know everything straight away.
- Give yourself time in the mornings. Buses and trains can be unpredictable!
- Say yes to opportunities, but also know when to rest.
- Most importantly: enjoy it. College is your chance to grow, explore, and start shaping your future.
Find out more about the first few weeks at College
Welcome Week at Rotherham College
Welcome Week at North Notts College
Welcome Week at Dearne Valley College