Changing your degree is a big decision, so it’s important to make sure that the new direction is right for you, your well-being and your future goals.

Firstly, ask yourself: Is it definitely the course that’s the wrong fit?

Degrees are a different ball-game to A-Levels, and starting your undergraduate course can be overwhelming. If there's a specific part of the course you’re struggling with, it’s worth asking for support. Your tutor and lecturers want you to thrive at uni and will be your first port of call for any worries you have. It might be a case of asking for more academic support or changing a specific module.

Or perhaps, our introduction to this blog about loving Freshers’ Fortnight didn’t ring true. If you’re feeling homesick, not getting on well with housemates, or finding it hard to adjust to uni life, it might be clouding your view of the course.

It’s important to know when to ask for help. Speak with the dedicated student support team at your university or accommodation provider.

Here at Sanctuary Students, we want to help you enjoy the best university experience possible while living a happy and healthy life. Find out more about our well-being services

If you’ve considered all of the above, and have come to the conclusion that, yes, you really want to transfer course, the good news is that it is possible – but there’s a few hoops to jump through first.

Firstly, make sure you’ve researched the course you want to move on to, so you know it’s something you’re interested in studying for the next few years. If any of your housemates or sports team friends are on the course, ask them about the various modules and how they find the course in general. What are their career plans after uni – do they match your own?

Next up, talk to your course tutor, who can help you initiate the transfer with the university’s admissions team. You’ll also need to make sure you meet the entry requirements for the new course, and may need to write a new personal statement.

When speaking to your new department, you'll have to show you’re seriously committed to the new course. Prepare just as you did for your first interview and be ready for questions about why the course appeals to you and why it aligns with your future plans. Be proactive and show how you plan to catch up on missed weeks.

If the new course admissions team is happy to accept you during your first year, they’ll set the plans in motion and soon you’ll be embarking on your new degree!

As we’ve seen, changing your degree in your first year can be a complicated but rewarding process – after all, it’s better to be doing what you enjoy, right?

University is an incredible experience, and by finding a degree you're passionate about, you’ll set yourself on an exciting path to your future career – or perhaps more higher education!