Returning to your studies after your placement

You'll come back from your placement with increased skills, confidence and organisation, which will stand you in good stead in your final year and future career.

Before starting your final year you should:

  • organise your accommodation
  • apply for student finance (from March)
  • register for your final year (from August)
  • check Blackboard for your final year modules (from August)
  • update your CV and LinkedIn profile with your new experience and contacts
  • look out for our invite to the 'welcome back from your placement' celebratory event and workshop sessions.

Check out our top tips to make the most of your final year.

Take time to readjust

It can take a bit of time to readjust to academic life after your placement. It might feel difficult to get back into doing academic assignments, especially when final year work can be more challenging. Or you may find your friendship circle has changed and meeting new people can be hard.

If you're feeling stressed, anxious or unsettled, you might find it helpful to check out services offered by the Wellbeing Service.

Make the most of your year

Get involved in social activities

Catch up with returning placement students to share experiences. Join in social activities that help you to get to know your new course mates.

Pick a dissertation topic

Utilise your placement experience and consider a topic related to your placement to give yourself a head start.

Brush up on your academic skills

Get to grips with referencing and critical thinking with support and advice from the library.

Keep up the work routine

Establish a structure to your days, making the most of the organisational skills you’ve learnt on placement. This will be vital when it comes to meeting final year deadlines.

Use your academic tutors wisely

Be proactive and plan a list of questions for your academic tutor. This will help you get the most out of your meetings and get the feedback you need to do your best work.

Work on your career plan

Make the most of the support and advice available. Update your CV and get it checked by UWE Bristol Careers whilst the experience is still fresh in your mind and before your final year workload increases.

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