Whatever the reason for you going to university and no matter how old you are, whether you live at home, renting or in halls, you will do better in your studies if you participate in student life outside your studies. These days there is a vast array of societies, clubs and interest groups available and there is sure to be at least one that you will really enjoy. Finding that you have common interest with students and making friendships outside your degree cohort is healthy and great fun. So even if you think you don’t have any time on top of your academic studies and paid work, I strongly recommend you make at least some time for sport and socialising. Even if it’s playing an hour of badminton a week or meeting with the Nintendo Society a few times (photographic evidence below that such a thing exists!), it will really help you feel part of university community.

Of course be careful not to get sucked in to spending too much time on extra-curricula activities. It’s great to be in a play, play in a sports team or join a political campaign but when this gets in the way of your academic work, you should cut back. If you manage your time well you will be able to focus on academic work, do some paid work and spend time on an interest with still some time left over to go out in the evening sometimes.