Welcome advice from our Student of the Year candidates 2022

Hello, my name is Lincoln Combeza. I'm a third-year student studying learning disability nursing, and I am the winner of the Student of the Year award.

My name is [Name], a finalist for the Student of the Year award. I've just completed my undergraduate degree in Media Communication and Creative Practice at [University Name].

The advice I'll give to students is to be yourself, always attend your lectures, get involved, and take part in the first-week events. You'll learn a lot, including information about the Student Union and various activities. The first week is a great time to settle in.

Advice I would give to new students arriving in September would be: You can do it, even if you're afraid or overwhelmed. Trust me, you can do it. I'm an international student, and I arrived just three months before the COVID pandemic hit. It was challenging, but I kept asking questions and persevering. Don't hesitate to ask questions, even if they seem trivial.

Before I came to Keele, I wish I had improved my digital skills, especially in terms of time management, online work, and attending lectures due to the pandemic.

One thing I wish I had known more about is the accommodation contract. Make sure you're comfortable with the accommodation you choose because once you sign a contract for a specific duration, you'll have to stay there.

In my first week, I wish I had brought a pen and paper. It's essential to have stationery for pre-events and planned lectures. It can be embarrassing to ask strangers for such basic items.

I also wish someone had told me to bring winter gloves when coming to Keele.

My top three tips for surviving university are:

1. Be kind to yourself.
2. Improve your time management skills.
3. Volunteer and participate in community activities provided by the university. You'll have a fantastic time during your stay at Keele University.

My top three tips for students are:

1. No one has it all figured out; do it even if you're afraid.
2. Ask questions, no matter how simple they seem.
3. Be kind to yourself and give yourself time to learn.

Make sure to reach out to people, communicate with your lecturers and librarians—they're here to support and help you.

Lastly, get involved in university services and ask about the various society opportunities available. Visualize yourself succeeding and reaching the top.