Around this time of year, you may be receiving your first set of assignment results. While it may be an anxious time, it’s important to not worry too much – and if you do, remember there is always help available. Getting used to University-level work can be a big transition and it’s something lots of people struggle with, so you’re not alone.
Whether you’re really happy with your results and want to keep moving forward, or feel disappointed and even confused about how you could improve there are people you can talk to and things you can try to make the most of your first results.
Who to speak to for support
There are three key ways you can access support whilst at Manchester.
First off, you can visit your Academic Advisor (or School equivalent). Academic Advisors are great people to chat with about a whole range of issues – whether it’s course related or anything else that may be affecting your studies. Or, you can visit your course unit leader during their office hours. They’ll be able to expand on their feedback and provide you with strategies to improve your writing.
Next is your School Support Office (or Officer), which is based in each School to help with any academic or personal issues you may be having, as well as giving any subject specific advice you may be after. For the full list of contact details for each School Support Office, click here.
Finally, there’s the Student Support and Advice team. They act as a central hub for support services and can help point you in the right direction if you’re unsure of where to start.
Top support services you can access
My Learning Essentials
Run by the Library, My Learning Essentials is an award-winning resource to help you develop key skills for your studies. Whether you’re looking for tips on how to manage your time, advice on structuring essays and an introduction to referencing, MLE offers in-person workshops and online tutorials throughout the year. Find out about upcoming MLE sessions on the website.
Counselling workshops
If you feel like you are struggling with underlying or personal issues that may be affecting your studies, the University’s Counselling Service offer a range of workshops on issues such as managing anxiety, tackling perfectionism and a daily mindfulness practice. For a full list of workshops, online resources and other methods of support, visit the website.
University Language Centre
If English isn’t your first language and you’re worried it may be affecting your work, the University Language Centre offers current students free classes on academic writing, speaking and listening, grammar and pronunciation.
Further academic support
As well as speaking with your Academic Advisor and School Support Office, you can also reach out and speak with an academic or member of teaching staff if you have questions about their module or want to see how best you can improve.
A lot of students can be quite hesitant to do so, but they are there to help and support you by explaining a topic in greater detail or giving advice on ideas you may have for an essay.
Student Support and Advice – supporting your student life
Located in the Atrium, the Student Support and Advice team can help with issues affecting your student life with signposting and referrals to more specialist services. For more details on how the Student Support and Advice team can help you, click here.