Struggling to settle in at uni? Sheffield students share their tips

Not all students, however, will feel comfortable joining societies and continue to struggle to settle in.

According to a 2026 survey of more than 10,000 undergraduate students by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) 22% said they had considered dropping out, down from 29% the previous year.

Nearly a third of those who said they had thought about quitting cited their mental health as the reason, while others put it down to problems with financial difficulties, or personal or family issues.

For those who are considering leaving that’s where the Students’ Union can help.

Ebuka Obi, president of Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union, said: “It’s very important to understand you’re not alone in navigating a particular situation or feeling a certain way.

“Universities do the absolute best they can to intervene and have services, including connecting students with people who are trained to help. You can get advice from people who are well connected within the city and understand the university processes.

“We try as much as possible to put on opportunities throughout the academic year so students can find ways to engage.”

The National Union of Students says there is typically an initial phase, a few weeks into term, when people feel like they want to drop out of uni, with a second phase after the winter break.

Obi added: “If Freshers Week hasn’t worked out so well, we put on activities during Welcome Back Week in January.

“These are usually much more well-being focused, such as animal therapy, cafes, outdoor running and walking events, which are minimal commitment.

“It is common for people to take some time to find their own tribe and it’s why we have various activities, events and engagements. There are many interventions that we put in place.”