10 tips for a great start on the academic year

Excited about student life in Volda and what might be a good idea to think about at the start? Bodil Lerøy, who has four years under his belt as a Volda student, gives you very valuable advice along the way.

Moving to a new place is always exciting and perhaps a little scary. Even if university is a new world for you or you have studied for a number of years, but at a different place. Here are my 10 tips for a good start in the Volda study village.

1. What should you bring? At first, a lot happens. Therefore, it is a good idea to check out what the dormitory has. You can easily check this by sending a message to the landlord or reading the contract. In some studios, everything comes fully furnished, so it's nice to save some money (and space) on things you don't need to take with you, or think about.

2. Be financially smart. The last thing you want to hear after you have received a lot of money. Still, there will be a day tomorrow. Syllabus, activities, new things for the dormitory. Everything has a cost, and many small amounts quickly become a lot of money. There are lots of smart tips for students here that might be smart to check out, especially if you're like me and spend quite a bit of money on food.

3. Join the Buddy Week. Volda is a great place where you can meet and get to know others across the course. It is still important to get involved in things. You don't have to drink alcohol to do everything. I know several people, and have done it myself, who have participated without drinking alcohol. The Buddy Week is a good arena to get to know your class, but also Volda.

4. Take a walk! Then I might not think of Rotsethornet, but get to know the village. Where are the shops, the Rokken student house or the bus stop? Volda has a lot to offer, see some of it here.

5. What about outside Volda? The village has a lot to offer from clothes shops, shoe shops, cafes and more. Would it be okay to find out what the local area has to offer? Then skip these long trips to Ålesund.

6. New as a student? Get to know the campus! Our library is a good resource for writing assignments, if you have questions about adapting your study day contact Student Service, and without food and drink, the hero is not enough. Here we have a fantastic canteen that prepares the best lunch so that you can function during the study week. Here is a detailed map of the campus with names of houses, rooms and what you would need.

7. Get involved! Volda has a lot to offer, from running a concert scene, to playing volleyball, or hosting his own radio programme. There are so many good organizations you can take part in. This really makes a difference in everyday life. You should actually have a life outside of your studies as well.

8. Enjoy the festival life. We are spoiled in Volda to have a festival for every taste. VEKA in Volda, the X2 festival, Dokfilm (The Norwegian Documentary Film Festival), and much more. This should be taken advantage of. Whether one just participated, or joins in working as a volunteer. Who knows, maybe you'll find what you like to work with?

9. Don't be afraid to stand out! Part of what really gives Volda life is everyone just being themselves. Take it from self-confident Rokken-Bodil, taking care of yourself not only brings joy to you, but also to those around you. Perhaps you are the next legend to wander the streets of Volda?

10. Remember to breathe. This is perhaps my best tip. A lot happens in a short time. One has to relate to many new people. Both lecturers, fellow students, those you live with. It's okay to say no and think about yourself. Not least, life can get in the way. Talk to those around you, and if you need an extra chat with someone who might have some good advice, the Welfare Group can be approached. They are here to ensure that you have as good a study time as possible.

Have a great time in the Volda study village. Whether you will be there for 1, 3 or 5 years. Time flies, enjoy your time in Volda.