First in your family to go to university? Five tips for settling into student life
Are you the first in your family to go to university? Or is the Dutch education system unfamiliar because you (or your parents) didn’t grow up in the Netherlands? Going to Leiden University is a great achievement, but it might feel overwhelming too. These tips will help you settle into student life.
1. Give yourself time to adjust
The transition from secondary school to university can be a big one. You’ll have lectures instead of lessons and professors instead of teachers, and will be expected to take more responsibility – for your own study plan, for example. This may even be your first experience of the Dutch education system.
It should feel reassuring to know that lecturers understand that first-year students need to acclimatise, and that you’ll receive all the information you need during the introduction days. Degree programmes are designed to help you gradually become more independent.
If creating your own study plan feels challenging, POPcorner offers a special training course to support you. You’re not expected to know everything right away. And remember, it’s always okay to ask for help. (See tip 5.)
2. Explore the options for financial assistance
Many students choose to work alongside their studies – for example, in hospitality or at the university. How much time you’ll have for this depends on your schedule, so it’s a good idea to wait and see how demanding your programme is before committing to a job.
Remember that, if you need financial support, there are other options available to help cover your tuition fee and living expenses, including a DUO loan or a scholarship.
Make sure you understand your financial situation and what support options are out there. For more information about money matters during your studies, see the university website. You can also contact Stichting SHout! for advice and tips.
3. Find out what’s on – and join in!
There’s so much happening on and around the campus: from student and sports association activities to events at the Rap100 student centre and creative workshops at the Leiden Academic Arts Centre (LAK).
If you’re looking to connect not just with fellow students but also with yourself, a Student Support Group might be a good fit. The Student Well-being team also organises a bi-annual Well-being Week packed with activities like paddleboarding, painting and shared meals. So there are plenty of opportunities to explore!
4. Find your people
If you’re the first in your family to go to university, your loved ones might not fully understand what studying involves, like preparing for lectures or student life in general. Try to involve them by talking about your experiences, but also know that you’re not alone. Many students are going through the same thing, and it can help to talk to others who understand. You could meet other first-generation students at the Meeting Point, POPcorner FSW or POPcorner The Hague, for example.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
As a student, you might sometimes feel like you have to solve everything on your own. But remember, it’s okay to ask for help, even if you’re not sure what exactly you need. The main thing is to take the initiative. It’s better to ask lots of questions than to remain silent and end up struggling.
Many people at the university are willing and able to help. You’ll have a student mentor, and you can always reach out to a study adviser. You can also take action by joining study skills training or workshops, at the POPcorners for example.
For more specific help, like speaking to a student psychologist, or to get a full overview of the available services, visit the Support pages on the student website. In short, there’s a wide range of support designed especially for you, so don’t hesitate to use it.
Questions or support: where to turn
If you are a first-generation student and could use some help finding your way at the university or in the Netherlands, there are services ready to support you. You can reach out to Meeting Point, POPcorner FSW or POPcorner The Hague. Alternatively, you can always contact startjetoekomst@sea.leidenuniv.nl.
The university also hosts an annual ‘Start your Future’ event at the beginning of summer, an introduction day especially for first-generation students. It’s designed to make university feel less daunting, offer a warm welcome and help ease any worries you might have.
Text: Iris Kole
Banner image: Anna Loh | Images in article: Patryk Fabis