I recently became a student at Coventry University studying communications, culture and media. I love the course content as I really engage with what we learn. I also am really enjoying university, but I think you don't know what it's really going to be like, and if it’s really for you until you arrive. However, there are a few simple tips I can advice people with who are thinking about going to university.

Firstly, go along to the open days and really think about which university you want to go to. Make sure you see halls of residence and speak to as many people who teach the course as well as people who are on it. This is because so many people hate their accommodation as they didn't see it before they came to university. There are also so many people shocked by certain aspects of their course, and the lecturers are only going to praise it, they won't tell you the negatives. So definitely make sure you really research the university, the accommodation and most importantly the course. I also think its a good idea to get a feel of the city and the nightlife.

Secondly, think about how well you adapt to change and how you act in new environments. Nobody told me before I went to uni how hard the first term is, I thought it'd be all fun and games but the reality was I felt unhappy for the first term. Don't get me wrong I love it now, but I didn't realise how hard it is to digest the change in lifestyle. The problem is you don't have any good friends in the first term as you don't know anyone that well so it can be hard at times. Saying that, the second term of university I couldn't have enjoyed more. So think about this in relation to how well you adapt to change and how this should relate to how far you want to be from home. Also make sure you stick out at least two terms if you find yourself homesick.

Thirdly, think really carefully about money before you go to university. I would advice saving as much money as possible all summer and research into all the financial help available to someone in your situation. One of the reasons I chose Coventry University is that I was allegeable for a £2,000 scholarship which has really helped me survive. I would also recommend after a few weeks of being at university working out a realistic budget and sticking to it, I can manage on £50 a week but everyone is different.

I hope all of this helps when making important decisions about going to university, and I wish someone had said all of these things to me before I went! I definitely think going to university is an amazing experience and I am so glad I decided to go. There’s just a few important thing you need to research and decide upon carefully before going to make sure you have the best time of your life!