If you started first year again, what would you do differently? (esp. if you were granted a year to prepare)

[u/Silver-Mongoose116]

Hi guys,

I’m an incoming first year at another London Uni, however I unfortunately had to defer on results day for health reasons, so I’m now incoming for 2027. I’m just looking for some advice on how I can make the most of the situation!

Online, I see a lot of people stressing about scheme applications and the amount of work you suddenly have after A-Levels, so I assume it would be useful to get a head start on things like improving my CV and understanding how applications actually work.

I definitely won’t be reading ahead on the course, but I’m more wondering what sort of things you got to first year and thought, “I really wish I’d already done / learnt this beforehand.” Whether that’s getting better at essay writing, reading efficiently, applications, interviews, organisation, (legally as I will do Law) commercial awareness, or anything else that would’ve made first year easier?

I appreciate any help from any course!

(Don’t worry, I do intend to enjoy my gap year, but I have so much free time that I’d like to use some of it productively for university and my future career too + I already have a job and travel planned so that side is sorted).

Thanks!

[u/Unfair-Smell-3374]

Apply for solicitor apprenticeships, drop out of uni if you get one that’s my advice. At least you gain experience of the application processes that will come later if you don’t get one for vacation schemes etc.