Seven new semester resolutions every Leeds student should have

Phew! We have FINALLY reached the end of assessment season and started the next semester.

Although it feels like we were recovering from our NYE hangovers just yesterday, somehow we’re over a month in to 2025.

However, since we’ve already broken our New Year’s Resolutions, the new semester is the perfect opportunity for a second (or eighth) chance.

So, here are some new semester resolutions for you to swear you’ll actually do.

Stay on top of coursework 

No more last minute panics! While it’s a Leeds student tradition to pull an all-nighter in Laidlaw right up to a deadline, we could really do without the stress this semester. Maybe it’s time to break the cycle?

Start your semester with a commitment to stay on top of coursework, whether that means setting aside dedicated study hours or keeping track of deadlines and planning study days at the library. Even if it only lasts a week or two, it’s the thought that counts…right?

Get involved in more societies 

While we know your favourite post-lecture activity is bed rotting, Leeds Uni offers an array of societies, from sports to culture to gaming. This year, vow to broaden your horizons (and reduce your screen time).

Whether it’s trying your hand at debating, signing up for yoga classes, baking, or joining Darts and becoming the next Luke Littler, joining a society is a fantastic way to meet new people and make the most out of your university experience.

Improve your work-life balance 

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Yes, that means take breaks…It can be tempting to work non-stop, especially when deadlines are mounting, but burnout is a serious issue. Also, let’s be real, bumping into course mates in Eddy B is not so fun when you’re essay rotting with backcombed hair and a variety of empty energy drink cans around you.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key so make it a priority to take breaks, and socialise. Whether it’s catching a movie at the Vue in The Light, grabbing a coffee with a friend, or visiting Kirkgate market and Corn Exchange for cultural experiences and a bit of retail therapy.

Make the most of Leeds’ hidden gems 

You might think Left Bank is your hidden gem, and we hate to break it to you, but it’s not. Leeds has so much more to offer than just the city centre.  

Explore parts of the city you might not have discovered yet by spending a day at Roundhay Park or going for a walk along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. Leeds has a rich history and culture, so treat yourself to a fun day out.

Discover new study techniques 

Studying can often feel like an overwhelming task, especially when there’s a lot of material to cover and your flatmates just invited you to brunch at 2pm on a Tuesday.

Whether you’re preparing for exams or working on essays, it can be hard to find effective study techniques that help you. So this semester, try something different to keep studying fresh!

Get better at cooking 

Let’s be honest—pot noodles, microwave meals, and Uber Eats can only take you so far. This year, take the plunge into cooking.

It’s a great life skill to master and can be a fun shared activity with your friends. Check out recipes that are easy and perfect for student budgets. Bonus points if you start meal prepping for the week and don’t eat it all in two days.

Take care of your finances 

We all know student loans don’t go as far as we’d like them to, and in first semester it is easy to splurge.

This year, make a resolution to get a handle on your finances. Create a budget that accounts for rent, groceries, nights out, and anything else you might want to consider (hello Dry Dock Tuesday) to keep your stress levels down.

If you’ve mastered all of that, take on the hardest resolution of all for Leeds students – go on an Otley Run and return home with all the elements of your costume intact!