If I did university again, this is what I'd do differently

Looking back at my time at university, there are plenty of things I enjoyed and experiences I wouldn't change. However, hindsight is a powerful thing.

If I were starting university all over again, there are a few decisions I'd approach differently. These aren't necessarily the "right" answers for everyone, but they're lessons I've learned through my own experience and through speaking with hundreds of students and graduates while building CMD Careers.

1. Consider taking a gap year

University will always be there.

If you're unsure about what degree you want to study or what career you want to pursue, don't feel pressured into making an immediate decision simply because everyone around you is going.

Taking a gap year can give you something incredibly valuable: time.

Time to work, gain experience, travel, volunteer, earn some money or simply explore different career paths before committing to three or four years of study.

That extra year could save you far more time later by helping you make a better-informed decision about your future.

Equally, if you've always wanted to travel, a gap year is one of the best opportunities you'll ever have. Once you begin working full-time, finding months to travel becomes significantly more difficult.

There is nothing wrong with waiting until you're confident in your decision. University isn't a race.

2. Choose your university based on a combination of ranking, cost and social life

One of the biggest misconceptions students have is believing that the highest-ranked university is automatically the best choice.

It isn't always that simple.

While university rankings are worth considering, they shouldn't be the only factor that influences your decision.

You should also think about:

• The cost of living.

• The overall student experience.

• The social environment.

• Whether you'll genuinely enjoy living there for multiple years.

  
  

For example, studying in London is significantly more expensive than studying in places such as Cardiff or Brighton. Rent, transport and everyday living costs can quickly add up.

Choosing a university purely because it's part of the Russell Group or appears higher in league tables may mean sacrificing your financial wellbeing or quality of life.

In many cases, attending a well-respected university in a more affordable city with a strong social atmosphere can provide a far better overall experience than stretching yourself financially to attend the highest-ranked institution.

University isn't just about lectures.

It's where you'll live, build friendships, develop confidence and create memories that last a lifetime.

3. Make sure you're ready to study again

Academic exhaustion is real.

After finishing A-levels or college, many students are simply burnt out.

You've spent years revising, sitting exams, completing coursework and, for many people, balancing part-time work alongside studying.

Jumping straight into another three or four years of intensive education isn't always the best decision.

If you're already exhausted before university begins, it's much harder to stay motivated, perform academically and enjoy the overall experience.

Remember that university is a significant investment.

With tuition fees of around £9,500 per year, you want to make sure you're entering that commitment with the right mindset and the motivation to get the most from it.

Sometimes taking a step back before moving forwards is the better decision.

4. Network more

This is probably the area I would change the most.

I attended networking events while I was at university, but looking back, I didn't fully appreciate just how many opportunities existed online.

Today, students have access to professionals across almost every industry through platforms, communities and career resources.

Speaking to people already working in roles you're interested in gives you insights that no university prospectus can provide.

You learn what the job is actually like, what skills employers value, what challenges exist and what steps you should be taking now to improve your chances.

Networking isn't just about finding a job.

It's about learning from people who've already walked the path you're hoping to follow.

Final thoughts

University can be an incredible experience, but it's also one of the biggest financial and personal commitments many people will make in their early twenties.

Take your time making the decision.

Choose a university that fits your goals as well as your lifestyle.

Don't ignore burnout.

And make the most of every opportunity to learn from people who are already where you hope to be.

If I had the chance to do university again, these are the four things I'd change first.