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28TH JUN 2023

6 Tips to Help You Prepare and Settle Into College

Tips to help you prepare and settle into College
Tips to help you prepare and settle into College

Moving from school to college can be an exciting and new experience. Many students find that college is a step towards independence and towards learning that makes a difference towards your career goals. There are many differences compared to school that you'll experience once you come to college, so getting prepared will ensure you're on the right track come September.

Start preparing now

After your exams, summer is the perfect time to wind down, relax and enjoy some summer rays. However, stay reminded of your future and your next steps at college earlier rather than later. This can be simple, from buying the right stationery, a water bottle, a new bag, or any tools that might help you study such as coloured overlays.

Plan your travel to college

You will be making your commute to college quite a lot in the coming years you study at college, so knowing your daily route is key. Here at Gloucestershire College, we have three campuses; Gloucester, Cheltenham and Forest of Dean campus. Click here to find out more information on the best way to get to campus. Why not give it a test run this summer?

Travelling to College

Student mentors

It's important that you're supported at college so that you feel safe and stay on track to achieve. Our student mentors at GC help support you throughout your time here and work alongside academic lecturers (that you call by their first time) to ensure you have everything you need to learn successfully. 

Make new friends and sign up to groups

Starting college is a great opportunity to form new friendships. While you will naturally get to know new people on your course, we also have many clubs and activities you can get involved in that will help you meet new people and settle into your life at college. 

We have enrichment clubs and activities in E-gaming, football, mindfulness pool, learn to cook, multisports and LGBTQ+. 

Think about your future

It is never too early to be thinking about your future after college. We have many opportunities you can explore provided by the college to help you understand how to prepare for life after college. Make a CV, research what sector you would like to work in, speak to the Employability Team or create a careers appointment! Your student mentor will also be able to offer support, as they can make links with staff across the college including the Learning Support, Advice and Guidance and Employment coaches.

Don’t compare yourself to others

Everyone travels on a different journey at college and throughout life. Use this new opportunity to leave the past in the past and create something fantastic for your future! 

Here at Gloucestershire College, we have four college values that we uphold. They are to be respectful, be responsible, be ambitious and be collaborative. 

Follow us on social media

Don't forget to follow us on social media to find out more about the latest events, clubs, competitions and goings-on at the college!

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Want more information? Check out these handy links:

Student Finance Student Services