Is September the new January: navigating the academic year as a new or returning student

It’s the end of summer - most people have returned from holiday, the dark nights have begun to creep in and there is a bittersweet lull as August dims and September begins. As it goes, endings lead to new beginnings, and in UK student culture, I would argue that September functions as a sort of pseudo January - instead of celebrating the beginning of a new calendar year, we celebrate (or perhaps dread) the beginning of the academic year.

I’ve seen people all over my social media preparing for a ‘September reset’, much like the videos you see in January where people document how they are going to be ‘glowing up’ and putting their resolutions in place. I find this quite funny, as a lot of these people are no longer even in education, but because of years of back to school propaganda, they feel like September is still their chance for a fresh start.

For people actually returning to education this September, the pressure to change their life in the new academic year is even more acute. Returning to university after the generous four month break of summer can feel daunting - new living situations, new modules, and for third years (like myself) the dreaded dissertation. But, not only are there challenges to be faced  by returning students, first years have a whole new city and structure to navigate.

The jump from college to uni can feel huge, and it can be hard to adjust to a demanding timetable after spending the summer away on holiday or relaxing at home. However, I think the best advice I have for feeling settled at uni works for returning students and new ones - finding a routine and familiarising yourself with your uni city!

I think a fun way to do this is by welcoming the new season in, and yes, treating the academic year like the calendar year. Although there can be a culture of toxic positivity when there is a new academic year (especially on social media), I think making small achievable goals can contribute to starting the year on a good note.

In Newcastle, there is so much to do and explore - even though this will be my third year here, there is still so much that I want to do! Maybe as a returning student, you might have moved into a new student area that you’re not used to. By taking a walk around and familiarising yourself with the area, you might feel more comfortable knowing this is going to be your new home. Find a new favourite coffee spot, or route to walk, or maybe an independent shop in your area that you can visit.

Buying some new stationary, like a planner, can help you feel organised for the coming year when lectures begin, and also will help romanticise those 9ams. Although change can be hard, Newcastle is the perfect place to welcome it, and as it's my last September as a student here, I plan on making the most of it!