Student Minds have two transitions guides which can support you to settle in, learn key time management skills, offer support around relationships, your identity, sexual activity, mental health and more. They also includes tips and strategies for helping you through challenging times and recommendations of where to go to get additional help, if needed. Best viewed digitally on your phone/laptop/tablet.
Transitions aren't easy and it's normal to fluctuate as you get used to university life. Have a read of 'the W curve' which explains how research has explained these ups and downs following the transition into university life.
This resource is here to help you be successful on campus, focusing on time management, relationships, identity, finances, sexual activity, mental illness, suicide and addictions and more. It also includes tips and strategies for helping students through challenging times and recommendations of where to go to get additional help, if needed. Best viewed digitally on your phone/laptop/tablet.
Transitions can be especially hard if you are an international student which is why we offer International Orientation week to help you settle in, explore London and make friends. Plus you can take part in exclusive day trips to Oxford and Brighton.
Staff will also guide you through the important information on being an international student in London including opening a bank account, registering with a doctor, staying safe and living independently.
MDXSU host an International Students Community with regular events and support.
Counselling and Mental Health often offer bespoke groups and workshops specifically for international students to gather together, share concerns, and speak about the issues that are specific to the lives of students from around the world. Keep up with the latest CMH groups and workshops on UniHub.
Culture Shock
Studying abroad can come with its own challenges. You might have a new language and/or a new culture to get used to, let alone starting fresh with new friends, a new living environment and new support circles. Culture Shock is the experience you may have with learning a new way of life. Keep an eye on our International Orientation Programme page to see how we will be supporting you in your transition to Middlesex University.
Here are some other useful resources on being an international student in London:
https://london.ac.uk/news-and-opinion/stay-central/how-make-most-london-international-student
MDXSU community networks are here to make sure all students have the best university experience possible, helping students to find supportive and fun communities, and influence positive change on campus.
Find out more about MDXSU Mature Students, MDXSU Commuter Students, MDXSU Parent & Carer Students, MDXSU Erasmus Exchange Students, MDXSU Post-Grad Students & MDXSU Healthcare Students.
Feeling homesick is common for new students starting University. Try not to feel alone in this experience and reach out to your peers, your academic team, and MDXSU. Find out more about support on UniHub.
Is home where the heart is? Or where you hang your hat at night? In this TEDx video, Susan Matt will help explore and explain the loneliness of leaving "home", whether it's to relocate to a country halfway around the world or to a university dorm room two cities away.
The Cambridge English Dictionary defines an introvert as "someone who is shy, quiet, and prefers to spend time alone rather than often being with other people." Sound familiar? You're not alone. Research shows that introverts may make up 24-40% of the population, though it is generally agreed that 'introvert' and 'extrovert' are two ends of a spectrum and that you are unlikely to identify fully as one all of the time. For example, many people who identify themselves as introverts may show extroverted traits in situations they feel comfortable in, such as surrounded by close friends.
But being an introvert doesn't mean that you're antisocial or unfriendly. Often introverts just need some along time every now and again to recharge, whereas extroverts tend to need this less.
If you identify as an introvert some or all of the time, you may feel worried about Fresher's or university life in general. Here are some interesting blogs, articles and tips that you might relate to.