Starting university is a very important milestone in one’s life. Taking this step is exciting, but at the same time really stressful. It is normal to be anxious and even scared, but with the right preparation that new chapter in life can turn out great.

When does the academic year start?

The start of the academic year varies depending on the country and on the university. In Poland the first, winter semester starts at the beginning of October and ends in mid-February, with a break for Christmas holidays that lasts around 10 days. The second, summer semester starts in mid-February and ends in June, with a one-week break for Easter.

Characteristic elements of the studies

During their time at the university each student will have to participate in various lectures, workshops and seminars. To prove their knowledge, they will need to pass tests, as well as written and oral exams during exam sessions that are usually held twice a year. To graduate they will also have to write academic papers. Other characteristic elements of the university studies consist of student integration and trips, meetings of clubs and special interest groups, as well as academic conferences, international exchange programs, and internships.

How to prepare for the first year of university?

Before starting the first year of university it is important to properly prepare for that new chapter in life. Students who need to move to a different city or country to commence their studies need to arrange their accommodation. It is possible to rent a room privately or pay for student housing. In order not to arrive late to the class on the first day, it is a good idea to learn beforehand where the classes will be held and how to get to the campus. If the list of required books and materials is known before the academic year starts, buying them is a reasonable thing to do. New students should also get registered at a local library – university libraries are great, but when hundreds of people need to read the same book at the same time, it is better to expand your options. Last, but not least, before the university starts, each student should equip themselves with necessary stationery supplies.

What stationery supplies come in handy during university?

University students need various stationery supplies. Aside from the personal computer, which is nowadays essential for communication with peers and professors, accessing study aids, registering for classes, and writing papers, each young academic will need:

  • notebooks and stationery paper,
  • pens, pencils, and highlighters to take lecture notes,
  • USB stick to share document easily and keep the copies of papers,
  • academic diary to organize classes and take track of important deadlines.

Other stationery supplies that may come in handy during university are folders and ring binders.

Folders

Expandable folders are an extremely convenient way to store notes, as well as important university documents. They are made with different spine widths and can be equipped with a closing mechanism that uses magnet, elastic or Velcro. In order to store a bigger amount of study aids, it is best to choose folders with compartments.

Ring binders

Ring binders are a very useful tool for storing notes and reading materials. They have high aesthetics and quality of workmanship. Personalized ring binders are durable, yet elegant and can be decorated with colorful, eye-catching prints which may be additionally protected by anti-scratch film or UV varnish. They are available in various formats and come with visual identifications for better organization. Moreover, personalized ring binders can have covers made of high quality ribbed paper or imitating canvas or leather. Some models are made with polypropylene which makes the cover resemble frosted glass.