Whether you're a new or returning student; home or international, live in halls or commute, have come from school, college or work - The journey through university will present challenges at some point for everyone. This is why at Sheffield Hallam there is a wide range of support to help everyone overcome these obstacles and every student is allocated an Academic Adviser.  This infographic poster considers some of the obstacles students say they and their peers may be experiencing; and the support and advice that is available to help them.

1. settling in at
university
Starting university can be both exiting and daunting. Students
shared some of the obstacles they faced in the first few weeks
during their Academic Adviser sessions and realised they were not
alone. The groups then discussed the support and guidance that is
available to help ovecome these challenges.
Note: All students at Sheffield Hallam University have an Academic
Adviser. If you don't know who this is, contact your Course Leader
and they will let you know.
Common obstacles shared by students
9 obstacles students might face
Making
friends
Feeling
homesick Eating
Finance and
budgeting
Whether you're a new or returning student; home or international, live in halls or commute, have
come from school, college or work - The journey through university will present challenges at
some point for everyone. This is why at Sheffield Hallam there is a wide range of support to help
everyone overcome these obstacles and every student is allocated an Academic Adviser.
Getting
organised
Teamwork Outside
commitments
Information
overload
Social life
making friends, homesickness and eating
Making
friends
Feeling
homesick
Eating
healthily
Some Notes to Remember:
There are a wide range of Hallam Students' Union societies and clubs to
join; and opportunities to meet new friends with shared interests.
Feeling homesick is VERY common. Check out www.browzer.co.uk/shu for a
collection of tips from students who have gone through this.
If you are living away from home, learn new recipes by sharing the cooking
with those you live with. It is possible to eat healthily on a budget!
taking control
TIP: The Students'
Union Advice can
offer guidance on
managing your
finances.
TIP: Make notes
and to-do lists
using a notepad
or on a digital
device. You can
borrow a laptop
using your
student card.
TIP: Revisit the
resources on
Blackboard
after each class
& ask questions
if things are not
clear. You can
also speak to
your Academic
Adviser.
TIP: There is one to
one academic
writing and maths
support available in
the Library
Finance and
budgeting
Information
overload
Getting
organised
Study skills
support
teamwork, social life and outside
commitments
Teamwork Social life Family
commitments
Part-time
work
Some Notes to Remember:
Working in different teams gives you the opportunity to meet more people
on your course and helps develop valuable life skills.
Balancing a fun social life, family commitments and getting adequate sleep
is crucial. Late nights and lack of sleep will take its toll.
Part-time work or volunteering can help develop important skills, but do
consider the number of hours so work does not impact on time to study.
Visit https://unihub.shu.ac.uk for part-time local and on campus jobs.
Academic adviser
University study is an experience that transforms lives, and your Academic Adviser
is there to support your academic, personal and professional development. They will
provide advice about how to improve your academic performance and can also
provide general advice about how to get the most out of your time as a student.