If you’ve just returned for your final year at Exeter after completing a placement, switching from a structured 9-5 working week to lectures, seminars and reading lists can take some time to get used to! For me, the city felt familiar, but returning after a year away felt a bit like starting uni all over again. Here are four things I’ve learned in my first weeks back which may help you out.

1. Give yourself time to get back into studying

 One thing I didn’t expect were things as simple as taking lecture notes or planning assignments to feel so strange! Moving from a structured working week to managing my own time each day is a real change. It can be tempting to view the gaps between lectures as time to switch off (or switch on the PlayStation…). One approach I’ve heard others recommend, and have tried myself, is treating each weekday a bit like a 9-5, ensuring I get up early and have time to wind down in the evening. You’ll be surprised how much more you can get done when you focus this way. However, don’t expect to fall straight back into your old routine, give yourself time to find what works.

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2. Reconnect with Exeter andmaybe try something new!

One of the best parts of coming back has been seeing old friends I hadn’t caught up with in over a year. But it can also feel daunting when some of your friends have graduated, or maybe a society you used to know looks completely different. Being in final year doesn’t mean it’s too late to meet new people. Joining a society or sports club and going along to events can help you settle back in. It's important to make time for the things you enjoyed before the placement! I’ve really enjoyed re-joining the Futsal Club, meeting people from different year groups, including some who are now thinking about applying for placements themselves.

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3. Remember what you’ve learned on placement

You may feel a bit rusty academically, but keep in mind that you haven’t spent the past year standing still. The time management, organisation and communication skills I developed have already helped me approach university work with more confidence. That experience can be especially useful for group projects and presentations. In second year, the thought of a summative presentation was not the most appealing. After giving presentations at work, I feel much better prepared now, to say the least! It’s also worth keeping in touch with colleagues and updating your CV and LinkedIn while your achievements are fresh on your mind.

4.Start thinking about thenext steps… but enjoy the last year!

Of course, there’s now the pressure of graduate job applications and future plans, especially when it seems like everyone around you is already getting interviews. But there’s no need to panic, you still have time! Your placement gives you practical examples to draw on in applications and interviews, and Exeter’s Career Zone can help with CVs, applications and career planning.

 But it’s important to remember that final year isn’t only about finding a job. Make time for friends, societies and the things you like to get up to. You don’t want to spend every night going through HireVues and psychometric tests!

Returning to uni after a placement year or even a year abroad can feel strange initially. Everyone’s experience will be different, and everyone adjusts at their own pace, but you’re returning with new experiences and skills, with lots to look forward to this year. Give yourself time to settle in and make the most of your final year!

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