New Students in Universities 2014: First Impressions

The survey charted the first impressions that new university and polytechnic students had about beginning their studies. The survey examined the respondents' views on issues relating to starting their studies, such as moving from their childhood home, learning to live on their own, tutoring, and student events. Furthermore, the respondents' views on their own ability to cope in this new life situation were investigated. All students who began their studies in higher education institutions in Finland in the fall of 2014 were eligible for the survey. The first part of the survey charted moving and living conditions of the respondents by asking if they had moved out of their childhood home and/or hometown because of their studies. The respondents were also asked to evaluate how difficult certain things were for them, such as finding an apartment and housekeeping. Next, the respondents were asked how difficult they found certain issues relating to studies and student community, such as getting to know other students or doing their first actual course work. Opinions on student events, parties, and alcohol use in conjunction with student events were charted. The respondents were asked to evaluate their life management skills in areas such as time management and stress control. Lastly, the respodents anwsered questions on how prepared they were to deal with potential problems that could arise during their studies. The background variables were the respondent's gender, age, and place of study.