Starting university can feel like stepping into a whirlwind of excitement, anxiety, and endless possibilities—especially when it comes to making friends. You might be wondering if you'll find "your people," worried about eating alone, or comparing yourself to others who seem to be clicking instantly with their new flatmates.

In this episode of Successful Student Transitions, Louise and Elizabeth cut through the friendship frenzy with five practical, reassuring tips to help you navigate those crucial early weeks. They'll help you understand why making friends feels so challenging right now, remind you of the skills you already have (yes, you really do!), and give you concrete actions to take.

Whether you're in your first weeks or nearing reading week, this episode offers a realistic, compassionate guide to building the friendships that will carry you through university—and maybe even become lifelong connections. Because here's the truth: everyone's finding this challenging, and that's exactly why being the one to say "hi" makes all the difference.

Welcome to the first episode in our new series: Lean Into Student Life for first year university students.

In today's episode, we're breaking down exactly how to navigate these crucial first weeks when everything feels uncertain and you're basically living on adrenaline and instant noodles.

Here's what you'll discover:

• Why feeling unsettled and uncertain is part of this process of transition
• What mindset, stretch and elastic bands all have in common.
• How to tap into strengths you already have but forgot about
• How curiosity can be your secret weapon
• How to start writing your new story from day one

Register for Lean into Student Life Show Notes and Full Programme HERE

Results Day over you may find you are feeling overwhelmed by the gap between your university dreams and reality? You're not alone.

In this episode, we dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster that follows results day and explore why that 'meh' feeling or sudden doubt about your choices isn't a red flag—it's valuable data.

Whether you're questioning your course, worried about finances, or simply feeling stuck in the 'messy middle' of major life change, we'll give you some practical suggestions to help you navigate this transition with confidence and clarity.

Listen as we discuss:

• Where this feeling of mixed emotions may be coming from and why it's not unusual..
• We introduce the messy middle in periods of transition and why this is relevant to now.
• We give some suggestions for what to do if you're having doubts
• We explain why doubts are not necessarily red flags and more represent important data.
• Why personal choices are so important in making your next step decisions.
• Why talking it out helps.

Additional resources:

Podcast HERE

• Episode 1 Beat the Transition Blues
• Episode 80 Top Tips for Freshers as They Start University with Toby

Check out our course: THRIVE in the Transition to University HERE

"Navigate your transition with confidence and excel throughout your university journey"