Can you give me some advice about university?

I'm a mature student who didn't get past college in the UK and that was over 20 years ago. I'm a little concerned about writing essays, doing research and generally being in over my head so would dearly love some helpful hints and tips. I'm not really academically minded, more of a practical person so any advice would be great. ThanksCan you give me some advice about university?
close your eyes





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KogHYeA0ns%26amp;feature=fvwCan you give me some advice about university?
if you've already applied for your course then this isnt really relevant but try and pick somewhere that does a 50/50 theory and practical if your more practical minded.


i am currently doing a media production degree which is split like that and its the best decision i ever made. i turned down a really good university because their course was all theory, and in my opinion, the course i am currently doing at a slightly worst university is so much better than what i witnessed at the high achieving university.


with a course like that you find you may only do one or 2 essays a year and you'll do a lot of portfolio style things where you present something to show your skills. for my media course we present a workbook of all the stages of a production, and also present a final piece such as a short documentary, a 20 minute tv program etc


im on target to get a 2-1, possibly a 1st if i shift my bum into gear and the hours on my course arent too demanding so if i really wanted i could do loads of extra work without sacrificing my social life, my job and family duties etc
I was also a mature student so here's my experience:-





1. Enrol on a ';academic writing'; course, these should be available at the Uni you're going to anyway.


2. There's about a gazillion books on how to research etc available from Waterstones/amazon etc.


3. Don't worry too much as until you start.


4. There's plenty of people around at most Unis to give you help on any aspect of the written side, the key thing is to start asking for help early on, rather than leaving it to the last minute.


5. Learn to touch type as soon as you can. This skill is invaluable and will save you lots of time.