From making friends to managing money: Students' advice for this year's freshers

You've just received your A-level results and confirmed your place at university. The weeks leading up to your move are filled with anticipation of exploring a new city, making new friends, and studying a subject you're passionate about. However, you might also feel a sense of anxiety about the impending change. BBC News spoke to current students about their concerns before starting university, how they overcame them, and the advice they'd give to freshers feeling uncertain about taking the next step.

Isaak Hewitt, who moved to Cardiff for university without knowing anyone, describes the experience as a "completely blank slate." He made friends by talking to people he met at lectures and seminars. Despite feeling terrified, Isaak advises freshers to act confident and put themselves out there.

Grace Morrell, a commuter student in Nottingham, also worried about making friends. Instead, she joined her student magazine, radio, and theatre societies. She emphasizes that friendships often come from putting yourself out there and doing what you love.

Mustafa Dassu, a 19-year-old at King's College London, met friends through social media chats with future coursemates and flatmates. Izzy Garcez, who wasn't as homesick as she'd anticipated, advises that you'll quickly make friends at university and may find yourself not missing your family as much as you thought.

Kieran Miller, a journalism student worried about money, compared student bank accounts and chose one that gave him a free 16-25 Railcard. He also signed up for student discount schemes. Avery Hewitt, a 19-year-old English and drama student, worried about balancing studying with working and playing in a university band. She advises being realistic about your timetable and cutting back on extracurricular activities if needed.

Even though your place is confirmed, it's not too late to change your mind. You can contact your university before starting to ask about changing courses or apply for other courses through clearing. If you have doubts about the course, you're having these feelings for a reason. Pia Subong, a 21-year-old biochemistry student, switched to film and English after realizing it wasn't the right fit for her.

If she had chosen a different course, she likely would have opted for biochemistry or pharmacy. Mel Kennedy, student wellbeing adviser at Ulster University, notes that starting university often involves stepping into an unknown environment, which can be scary for many students. However, everyone's experience is different, and universities offer support to help students navigate this major transition.