Welcome Freshers! 
While your first lecture may seem daunting, there is no need to worry. With the help of these useful strategies, you can tackle your first lecture with confidence and lay the groundwork for a successful academic future. Here are the best tips to help you thrive in this new learning environment:
Before the lecture:
- Charge Your Laptop
- If you will be taking notes on a laptop, remember to make sure it is fully charged or bring a charger with you, as lectures tend to last around 2 hours each.
- Familiarise Yourself with the Location
- To avoid walking into the wrong lecture hall or walking in late, it is best to locate the lecture hall beforehand using the campus map. You can practice these routes during freshers week before lectures officially begin.
- Do the Pre-Readings
- To ensure you are fully prepared, it is essential to complete any pre-readings or activities that may involve watching a short video or filling out a quiz related to the lecture material. This way, you will understand the content much more thouroughly, as the lecturer may mention and refer back to these sources throughout.
- Put Away any Distractions
- Make sure to put away anything that may make you sidetracked during a lecture, such as your phone. You may also want to sit at the front of the lecture hall, as it can eliminate any visual distractions.
During the lecture:
- Don’t Copy the Slides
- It is best not to copy everything that is written on the slides, as it is difficult for information to be retained. Instead, focus on listening to what the lecturer says and try to summarise the key points.
- Talk to Your Peers
- Be open to creating conversations with the people around you. Start by introducing yourself and asking questions to find common interests. Building these friendships during lectures is a great way to create a strong and supportive network.
- Engage and Participate
- Lecturers will tend to ask questions throughout the lecture to engage students. It may feel nerve-wracking at first, but don’t be afraid to put your hand up and give it a go. University is all about growth and learning, so don’t worry about getting the answer wrong.
After the lecture:
- Review Your Notes
- Using the textbook and any additional readings, it is extremely beneficial to add to your notes, incorporating any extra information or detail. This will come in handy when it comes to exams, as you will have all the essential material in one place.
- Ask questions
- At the end of the lecture, feel free to speak to your professor about any questions you may have about the material covered or the module.
- Complete the post-lecture activities
- You may be given some post-lecture activities to carry out, which is best to be completed shortly after your lecture has finished.
Conclusion
You’re now ready to conquer your first lecture and all the rest to come throughout your academic journey! By preparing well beforehand, staying focused and engaged, and acquiring an inquisitive attitude, you will be more than ready to thrive and succeed. Good luck, and get ready for an exciting start to your lectures!