Settling in to University: Finding Your Feet at Liverpool
Starting university is a big change, and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. Now that the first few weeks have passed, here’s how to look after yourself, find your community, and make the most of your first weeks at Liverpool
Starting university is exciting; and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. Whether you’re moving away from home for the first time, adjusting to a new city, or returning to study after a break, settling in takes time. Everyone’s experience is different, and there’s no “right” way to feel.
Give yourself time
It’s okay if university life doesn’t feel perfect straight away. Building new routines and friendships can take a few weeks — or even a whole semester. Be kind to yourself and take things one step at a time.
- Keep a regular routine for meals, sleep, and study
- Get to know your surroundings — take walks around campus or your local area
- Make small connections by joining societies or attending welcome events
You don’t need to do everything at once. Little steps add up to confidence over time.
Looking after your wellbeing
Adjusting to university life can bring ups and downs, and it’s okay to ask for help. The first step to accessing wellbeing or mental health support at Liverpool is through the Wellbeing Team.
You’ll start by completing a short triage form on the Wellbeing webpages. The team will review your information and offer person-centred support, referring you to the most appropriate service within Student Services if needed.
- Money Advice and Guidance — help with budgeting, funding, and financial wellbeing
- Disability Advice and Guidance — support if you have a disability, long-term condition, or specific learning difficulty
You can find all support options via the Student Support website.
Tips for postgraduate students
If you’re starting a postgraduate course, your experience might look a little different — and that’s okay. You may be balancing study with work, family, or other commitments, and finding your community can take time.
- Connect with your department’s Postgraduate Student Representatives
- Use postgraduate-only study and social spaces across campus
- Contact the Wellbeing Team — support is available for postgraduate students too
Other sources of support
You don’t have to manage everything on your own. There are people across the University community who can help:
- Your School or Department: Learning and Teaching Support Officer (LTSO), Student Experience Team, or an academic tutor
- Peer Mentors: trained in wellbeing support and available to talk through settling-in challenges
- Chaplaincy Team: support for Muslim, Jewish and Christian students
- Guild of Students: independent advice and representation
- Wardens and Residential Advisors: support in University accommodation
If you need to talk now
If you need immediate help, these services are available outside normal hours:
- Health Assured — free, confidential helpline for University of Liverpool students, available 24/7, 365 days a year: Call 0800 028 3766
- Papyrus HopelineUK — suicide prevention helpline: 0800 068 4141 (9am–midnight, every day)
- Samaritans — call 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day)
- Shout — text 85258 for confidential text-based support