Ready for a new challenge

We are delighted students attend Ulster at so many different stages and walks of life.

25 Jul 2022   3 min read

Ready for a new challenge

Mature students bring unique perspectives to uni life and we aim to offer you in turn, an exciting and enjoyable experience.

Hear from mature student Stefanie McCluskey about her experiences at Ulster:

Top tips

Here are our top tips on how to survive uni-life as a mature student:

It takes time!

Don’t pressure yourself to have it all sussed from week one; you’ll soon get into the swing of prioritising tasks and settle in to your routine.

Being organised from the start of each semester will help with juggling life and uni; identify the best time and environment for you to study and plan around then.

Strike a balance

You might have a number of commitments as well as your studies: children, partner, a job, pets! So make sure you keep a balance and allow time for you to keep being you!

Woman with dog in misty forest

Get sociable

Don’t hold back from societies or events; we have societies and social activities for all interests, from dance, music, sport, politics to animation, film, horticulture and gaming. We also have a mature student society on some campuses (with others hoping to start), with options of quiz nights, live music or even just catching up over coffee.

Age is literally just a number and, for the record, no one actually cares! You might just find what you’re looking for in one of the many societies available to join across our campuses.

Check out the full range of societies and connect with your Ulster University community.

Top view of friends in cafe drinking cappuccinos

Look for support

There are lots of people you can ask for advice and help: Connect with your lecturers, subject librarians and fellow students.

In addition there are lots of support channels at Ulster University through:

Good luck and enjoy!