• Finding your study vibe 
  You will soon find that studying at university is very different to your school education, with a heavy emphasis on independent research and learning. Adjusting to this new way of working can be tricky, so here are some tips and tricks to help you find your feet: 
  
  1) Find a suitable study space 
  Reading ahead of lectures, writing essays and preparing for group presentations are just some examples of the types of work you will be expected to do at ULIP. The ULIP library is a great space to get your head down, although if you need a change of scenery the American library, Centre Pompidou or any of the municipal libraries are wonderful alternatives (and a good way to get to see more of the city).
  The ULIP basement or sitting out in the sun on the esplanade at Invalides are great spaces to discuss group work or socialise and take a break from your laptop screen. 
  If a café is your preferred study environment, check out Kozy Café, not far from university with guaranteed Wi-Fi (http://www.kozy.fr/) or head to Café Nuage (https://www.nuagecafe.fr) a co-working coffee shop where you pay per hour instead of per food/drink item. Perfect if you're a coffee and madeleine addict because this means unlimited snacks! There are many Parisian cafés to explore, so treat yourself to a coffee and a croissant and take the opportunity to practice your French! 
  
  2) Identify and locate your resources early 
  Whether you’re preparing for an essay or just looking for some extra material on a topic that’s piqued your interest, the ULIP library and the QMUL online library are great places to start. Our wonderful librarian Kim is also more than happy to point you in the direction of relevant journals and other resources. Seeing what you’ll need will help you to better understand the task ahead, giving you more time to plan, and reach out for help and guidance if you get a bit stuck! 
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  3) Set boundaries 
  Not to state the obvious, but being in Paris is hugely exciting! In order to ensure you get the most out of your Parisian experience it’s important to be realistic with your time and your priorities. Your work is important, but so is your mental health and your integration into the city. Keeping a varied routine will make it easier to balance the various demands on your time – check out our Welfare pages for more information on how to take care of yourself and adjust to this new environment!