1. Take it all in
Preparing for a master’s degree is a really exciting yet daunting time. Do not forget to reflect on what your previous studies and experiences have taught you. Something as simple as speaking to former or current postgraduate students can ease your worries or answer any questions you may have. Knowing who your professors will be and reaching out to them near the start of the semester can also make you feel more familiar with the people who you will
be seeing regularly.

2. Housekeeping
It can be the most exhausting part of your preparation period, but once it’s done, it’s done! Take a bit of spare time to note down your finances, study schedule and key dates. These may include how your tuition fees will be paid, your anticipated spendings (anything from accommodation to course textbooks, travel and day-to-day living), and finally key university dates. Once your studies begin and you get wrapped up in a never-ending to-do list, it will become easier to look at your diary and know what is coming up since you have already noted it down.

3. Make time for you
If you are lucky enough to have some extra time before the start of your studies, try to make time for yourself, and enjoy it. Recharge and rest, but also gradually prepare your brain to begin thinking critically prior to starting your master’s —such as by listening to an informative podcast. Keep an eye out for conferences or literary events in the city that can help inform your studies or even help you pursue a particular interest and connect with likeminded peers!

4. Explore your city
Manchester has a huge number of students, so make the most of social events prior to starting your course as well as doing some solo exploration. Getting a feel for the city and finding a hidden brunch spot where you might picture yourself spending your time will help the city feel like a home away from home. Even if you are familiar with the city, the university is so large and spread out, that there is bound to be a spot you have yet to see.

5. Start early
Often, the most difficult part about getting ahead with your reading is actually making a start. Once you begin, it will become a lot easier than it would be to leave things till the last minute. Acquiring your reading lists and making a start on them will not only give you more time to prepare to discuss the texts, but also get you in the habit of being in a disciplined study schedule. It can be a structured timetable, or an hour a day – whatever suits you – but that extra reading will make things much easier once you begin.

Good luck!

Written by Haya Genawi, an English Literature and American Studies MA student

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