Head Start to University Study

On the course, you’ll learn about what’s involved in university study, what it means to be an academic expert and how to get the most from your studies. You’ll hear from lecturers and students already on degree programmes who will be sharing their insights into the ins and outs of university study.

During the course you will attend talks, panel discussions, Q & A sessions, participate in group activities and have time for individual reflection. Day one is themed around the idea of ‘becoming a university student’. You should come away with a good sense of what sort of transformations need to happen to engage in academic thinking and gain expertise. Day two is themed around the idea of ‘being a university student’, and contains a more practical focus on independent learning and communicating effectively.

What are the aims of the course?

The course will help you:

• Gain an understanding of the academic expectations of university study;
• Consider the nature of university cultures, systems and approaches;
• Recognise how your personal experience and perspective add value to Royal Holloway;
• Connect with other students and staff at Royal Holloway;
• Increase your confidence to study at Royal Holloway;
• Plan ways to get the most out of your first weeks and months at Royal Holloway.

What is not included in the course?

This course will not focus on the subject matter of your specific degree programme, though you will be able to apply the course content to your degree programme.

It will also not include advice and guidance on the practical, administrative aspects of studying at Royal Holloway such as your timetable, placements, managing your budget etc. You will receive guidance on these during Welcome Week.

Who else will be on the course?

Everyone on the course will be a first year undergraduate student just starting at Royal Holloway. On the course you will meet and work with students studying on many different degree programmes. You will also have the opportunity to spend time with students studying in the same academic school as you.

Is this course in person or online?

We are planning to run this course both on campus and online. We strongly encourage you to join the on-campus group to allow you to spend more time with other students and staff.

If students or staff need to self-isolate for any reason, they will be able to join the online group.

What precautions are in place to reduce the spread of Covid-19?

The course will follow the university’s Covid-19 guidelines, including reduced capacity of students in classrooms and minimising movement of students between classrooms.

Who is running the course?

The course will be delivered by Learning Developers from the Centre for the Development of Academic Skills (CeDAS). A number of lecturers and students from a variety of degree programmes will participate in the panel discussions and Q & A sessions.

How much will this course cost?

The course is free.

Please note that you will need to provide your own food and drink on the course.

How can I ask a question about the course?

Please email headstart@rhul.ac.uk.