Starting university is a really exciting time, and I wish I had known a few things before arriving in Exeter that would have made settling in a little easier. From figuring out how to get around to realising that Exeter is a great base for exploring Devon, here are three things I’ve learnt since starting university that I hope will help!

1. Exeter may be smaller than you think

Starting university in a new city can be daunting, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the area. Luckily, Exeter is quite compact, with the University and city centre both within walking distance. It’s one of those places where you’re not stuck if you don’t have a car! However, not everyone wants to lug a mountain of weekly shopping back from town.

Luckily, there are buses running between the city centre and campus, including the number 4 from North Park Road, which stops near the top of Forum Hill.

Campus can be similar. You might wonder how on earth you’re going to find your lecture theatre, let alone make it across campus in a ten-minute gap! I found that taking walks around campus helped me recognise the main buildings, discover shortcuts and find my favourite places to study. Plus, Streatham Campus is full of greenery and wildlife, making it a great place to take a break.

2. Learn where to shop

Everyone knows that convenience isn’t always the cheapest option, and you probably don’t want to find yourself heading into Christmas surviving on beans, or my personal favourite, a sandwich with a nice filling of another slice of bread – world class! Being responsible for your own food and toiletries for starters can take some getting used to.

Luckily, Streatham Campus has lots of places to grab food and essentials without heading into town. The Ram, La Touche Café in the Business School and Super Savour Kitchen in Devonshire House are my picks for lunch, while smaller shops such as Cornwall House and Forum Marketplace are handy if you’ve forgotten something or just need a couple of things.

For a bigger shop, you can head into the city centre to Sainsbury’s at the Guildhall, or use the supermarkets on Pinhoe Road, including Sainsbury’s, Aldi and Lidl, which are close together and accessible by bus. Working out where to do your regular shop early on can make weekdays a lot easier – and hopefully avoid too many costly trips to small shops.

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3. You’re not limited to Exeter

One of my favourite things about studying here is thatExeter is a great base for exploring Devon. I soon realised how easy it can beto take trips in the evenings or at the weekend.

Exmouth is my go-to day trip. The beach is only around halfan hour from Exeter by train, while Topsham is another great spot that’s evencloser. You can have a completely different day without travelling far, whetheryou want to spend a few hours by the sea or take a break from work.

Once you get used to the trains and buses, places outsideExeter suddenly feel much more accessible. You can even make your way intoCornwall, with places such as St Austell accessible by train. It’s a greatopportunity if you’re new to the UK or the South West!

Looking back now that I’m in my fourth year, these are someof the things I wish I’d known when I first arrived. Getting to know your wayaround, finding the places that work for you and discovering what’s beyond theuniversity can make your first year a lot easier.

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