Welcome Back - to the beginning of the end!

Hello! I'm back! Can't believe it's been 3 months since I blogged last, and I do confess, from beginning of August to October I had nothing of uni on my mind, I was busy getting married! What were you up to over the summer break? I would love to hear it in comments below.

Induction days finally rolled around last days of September/first days of October, and I must say that after 4 months off from university, and even longer from assignment deadlines, it was a welcome sight, marking the beginning of the end, our 3rd and final year, the chance to prove ourselves, and finally take the dissertation "bull by the horns" - or what my peers have been calling "the big D".

I blogged a few weeks ago on my good intentions of the year via UoB's Librarian's Blog, and my practical steps to getting back into the groove, however actions and plans (even when carried through) become difficult when our creativity and writer's block set it. Still, I found new energy in our induction day.

I won't lie and deny that it didn't have its moments of tediousness or wonder if it was a bit inconvenient taking time out of my busy life, but not only did I appreciate having my questions answered from the get go, I also enjoyed and found new inspiration in my peers and the friendly, faith filled faces of lecturers.

As we talked about our summers and each one added their own reason to be excited about the new year, or even talked about their terrors with determined smiles, I felt like I had found that extra strength and spark I was needing to keep going. It makes me wonder if lectures are ever a waste of time, regardless of whether I know the topic or its relevance to me, as I went home to sit down at my desk with renewed determination and looking forward to the challenge.

Applying, Step 4: Finance and Money!

If you haven't already, I've just received my reminder to reapply for student finance. The website is www.studentfinance.gov.uk

Survival is a very important part of studying, and if not working full-time hours around your studies, Student Finance is the first place you should go, there are loans available at very reasonable interest rates (make sure you check them carefully for any surprises as you are charged from your very first payment), and grants available for those with children, adult dependants, and even just you yourself if you are over a certain age and living independently. You are not obliged to take any of these, and can pick and choose, for instance in my first year I took out a loan but now I am trying to get my income from other sources that I don't have to repay (grants, tax credits, casual work etc.).

Tuition Fees however, unless you are lucky enough to have a sponsor, you must apply for (and as soon as possible) to pay for your course. You must be careful to dot the i's and cross your t's here as you cannot attend your degree units without your fees, and you cannot get your fees without attending study (these are all paid directly to your university). There is a Student Finance desk near SiD (student information desk) that will help you if stuck but do get over there soon as possible if you're having any issues - the last thing you want is someone telling you to come back next year!

And don't forget your supporting evidence, the Student Finance website is marvellously laid out so after making an account and applying, your instructions and reminders will show up on your account page. Hop to!