Where to find help at university

It can be confusing knowing where to turn for support at university, but by taking advantage of the resources available to you, you'll be better equipped to make the most of your study experience

From academic pressures to mitigating circumstances, students often find themselves in need of support. The good news is that there are systems in place to help you succeed academically, emotionally, and socially. Don't hesitate to reach out when you need assistance, whether it's with your studies, finances, personal wellbeing, or career plans.

Wellbeing centres

Whether you're dealing with your mental health, relationships, or something else entirely, feeling stressed is often part of the university experience. Luckily, your university's wellbeing office (also known as the student support centre) is a dedicated resource. Talk to their trained staff for confidential support, counselling, and practical tips to get you back on track.

Your university isn't your only resource. Check out Student Space from Student Minds, an online platform offering:

• A listening ear - trained volunteers are just a text, phone call, email, or webchat away, ready to hear your concerns without judgment.
• Help finding your university's support network - unsure where to get help on campus? Student Space can help you navigate your university's support services, connecting you with the right resources for your specific needs.
• Expert advice - browse through a library of articles and videos created by mental health professionals and students. Get practical tips, insights, and encouragement to tackle common student challenges like stress, anxiety, and academic pressure.

Get more advice on looking after your mental health at university.

Academic support services

The academic side of university life can be overwhelming, but universities offer a range of services to assist students in their studies:

• Tutors and academic advisers - your university has experts available to provide one-on-one guidance, tailored to your specific needs - whether you're struggling with a math equation, need help structuring your essay, or simply want to bounce ideas around.
• Workshops and study groups - not only will you gain valuable knowledge through workshops and webinars, but you'll also connect with peers who share your academic journey, giving you a chance to study together and support each other.
• Writing and research resources - most academic support centres offer access to a wealth of resources, including online writing guides, citation tools, and advice on refining your writing skills or navigating the research process.

Be sure to check with your institution for the specific services and resources offered by your academic support centre.

Financial support services

Managing finances can be a significant concern for many university students. More than half (52%) of participants in the Prospects Early Careers Survey 2023 identified financial concerns as a major challenge, highlighting the struggle to balance work and study as one of the major obstacles encountered by students.

Fortunately, universities understand the financial pressures students face and provide support services to help navigate these challenges. Financial aid offices offer guidance on:

• accommodation
• grants
• scholarships
• student loans.

They can assist in understanding the intricacies of budgeting, managing student loans responsibly, and accessing emergency funds if needed.

Don't hesitate to reach out to the financial aid office to discuss your specific situation, whether it involves tuition payments, unexpected expenses, or long-term financial planning.

By proactively seeking financial advice, you can alleviate some of the stress of managing your finances and focus more on your academic growth.

Check out our top student money-saving tips for 2024.

Counselling services

University life can be demanding, offering not just academic hurdles but also opportunities for personal exploration. The availability of counselling services ensures a safe and confidential space for students to explore personal issues, such as:

• mental health concerns
• relationship difficulties
• identity exploration
• loss and grief

Counselling services are confidential and staffed by dedicated professionals who are there to listen, support, and empower students to navigate the complexities of personal growth and development.

Be sure to reach out to the resource at your institution, and check Mind's advice on student mental health.

Your university careers service

While transitioning from university to professional life can be intimidating, career services offer students invaluable guidance. These services assist you in:

• exploring potential career paths
• fostering connections with prospective employers through workshops
• making informed career decisions
• honing job-search skills
• making the most out of career fairs and networking events.

'At the University of Bristol, we encourage students and graduates to attend our 'get clear on your career' workshop,' says Karl Anton, graduate careers consultant at Bristol's Careers Service.

 'Your university might have a similar career planning-themed session where you will likely gain some new understandings of what you want from a career and be signposted to various approaches to help you explore and evaluate your options. You'll also leave with a few practical actions to support you moving forward,' notes Karl.

The careers service can also help you to secure work experience , check over your CV, help you prepare for an interview for your part-time job or show you how to gain transferable skills.

Your students' union

Students' unions serve as invaluable support systems tailored to meet the diverse needs of students. Whether you're an international student adjusting to a new environment, seeking academic accommodations due to a disability, or exploring avenues for financial assistance, the students' union offers specialised resources and expertise to ensure your success and wellbeing.

The students' union can also assist with:

• Student advocacy - the union serves as a bridge between students and the university administration. They raise student concerns about academics, facilities and campus life.
• Giving you a platform - whether it's through student elections, open forums, or social media engagement, the union provides avenues for students to voice their opinions and perspectives.
• Celebrating diversity - the union empowers its officers to build an inclusive community, embracing the diversity of the student body to engage with other students through extra-curricular activities.

Library resources

 Beyond being a space for studying, your university library is an invaluable resource, with staff available to help with research, locate academic sources, and guide students through the vast expanse of literature.

Check with your university library website to see what is on offer, but most libraries host workshops and seminars focused on skills such as:

• citation management
• database navigation
• literature reviews
• refining research skills.

Read our tips on how to write an essay.

Peer mentoring programmes

 Universities sometimes have peer mentoring programs that match new students with current students, acknowledging the importance of shared experiences. As students begin their academic journey, their mentors provide them with insights, practical guidance and support to help them navigate the challenges of university life.

Your institution may also offer mentoring programmes for career advice. Karl advises that you 'capitalise on your alumni network. At the University of Bristol, we have a platform that enables graduates to connect with an e-mentor who can offer industry-specific advice and guidance on their career.'

Discover our tips on how to benefit from your university's links.

Online platforms

In the digital age, learning management systems, discussion forums, and virtual resources are common tools that facilitate communication between students, professors, and support services.

Popular online resources include:

• Discussion boards - these forums allow students to ask questions, engage in academic debates, and learn from the experiences of others, fostering a sense of community and support. Research which platforms you have access to through your institution.
• Learning management systems - platforms such as Canvas, Blackboard and Moodle allow you to manage course materials, assignments, grades, and communication with lecturers.
• Scribbr - offers comprehensive guides and resources on writing, grammar, plagiarism, and research, helpful for any student regardless of their course.

Find out more

•  Read our 7 time management tips for students.
• Start university well by making the most of freshers' week.