This is an update of a talk I gave nearly 15 years ago to some students back in Sheffield. My aim was to help them avoid the classic polar mistakes of either avoiding the intellectual challenges of university or being swamped by them altogether. There are all kinds of other joys, opportunities and challenges when people first go to uni, and so intellectual development is only one aspect of what needs thinking about. But I fear it is often overlooked altogether.
So at this time of year, just as millions around the country are starting their university careers, here are a few tips and lines of enquiry. I hope that it helps even just a handful.
You can download it here or read on Scribd below.