Student LifeStudy

The difference between A-Levels and university – my experience

GRACE COLEMAN

Grace is a first year student, studying Law at YSJ, and in this blog she talks to us about the difference between A-Levels and university and how she has experienced this transition.

The transition from A-Levels to studying at university may not seem like a big deal, however the experience is vastly different. I studied 3 A-Levels: Law, Literature, and History, which was quite a handful, yet I still quickly discovered that university demands a different approach to studying and self-discipline, which I am still learning now! In this post, I’ll compare some of the differences I have personally found between A-Levels and University life.

Independent Learning

Many people find that one of the biggest shifts from A-Levels to university is the level of independence you have to adapt to. At A-Level, teachers guide you closely, setting structured lessons and providing regular feedback. However, University requires students to mainly guide themselves through the course, but of course staff members are always there to help! Lecturers provide the framework, which you can take notes on and read around the topics presented later; whilst seminars emphasise the importance of group discussion and student input.

When I was studying at A-Level, I could rely on my teachers to highlight key points, give in-depth information on complex topics, and allow them to lead the lessons. But at university, it was quickly established that it was completely up to the student whether they completed their assignments, read subject materials, or contributed to the sessions. Whilst staff members do highlight how important it is to get work done on time and to stay on top of studies, it is ultimately your responsibility to care for your degree.

Workload

A-Levels can feel quite time-consuming, with homework, exams, assessments, and a packed timetable, whereas at university your timetable will be more spaced out, giving you lots of free time. But don’t be fooled. You still need to use this free time to complete reading, coursework, seminar preparation, write essays etc. This requires a lot of dedication and time-management skills.

For example, in my Law degree, I am expected to read and analyse case judgments to prepare for seminars, something that I wasn’t familiar with at A-Level. Without good time management, deadlines can creep up on you. It’s a good idea to keep a study timetable, with key dates for assignments noted down, and certain days and times dedicated to study, this should hopefully help you keep on top of it all.

Topics

There is also a difference in what and how you study at university compared to A-Levels. University delves deep into specific topics, allowing students to have a deep understanding of the topics, as well as the ability to build on skills like critical reading and writing, and a development of theory.

I found that A-Level was like a memory game, where you just had to memorise facts and key dates etc. At University however, you learn a lot more about complex theories, how to criticise them, and why initial facts caused a certain outcome.

Support Systems

Whilst being at university means there is lots of independence, it does not mean that you cannot get help. Lecturers unfortunately do not have the time to check up on every single student for every single module, while teachers can do this much easier at A-Level. However, you will be assigned an academic tutor, who you can go to about any concerns, whether this involves studies or personal life; if you contact lecturers privately they can offer help; there is also study/peer groups available for you to go to, so not everything has to be done alone.

Thoughts

The transition can seem pretty daunting, but it is so rewarding once you find your rhythm. You get the freedom to explore your subject in depth, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for a professional career. As long as you manage your time and keep on top of the workload, there is nothing stopping you from embracing university life and having fun!

To help you balance this transition from A-levels to university, explore our support options at our website.

GRACE COLEMAN

Hi! My name is Grace and I’m a 1st year Law student at York St John. Although I only live down the road in Scarborough, I’m living in York with a student accommodation provider for my first year. I have fallen in love with the city and the university so far, and I am so excited to see what is still to come – I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else! I decided to become a Student Voice Ambassador to show others aspiring to come to university the actual reality of student life, like the amazing rewards of being a YSJ student at such a brilliant university in an amazing city. However, I think it’s also important to show that sometimes life can be tough as a student, especially away from home, but how support is available in abundance from everyone in the university, and how it helps you to empower yourself. Fun fact: I have a huge fascination with bees. It started when I wrote an essay on their importance to the environment in secondary school, and I discovered how amazing the tiny creatures actually were- such a small insect with huge global significance! It’s as if they’re a metaphor for us to – no matter how small we feel in the grand scheme of things, we can do things to make a big difference.