What should students keep in mind at the start of the academic year?

Gréta Matthíasdóttir, Director of Student Support at Reykjavík University (RU), has extensive experience supporting students. As a new academic year begins, she explains that there are many important things for students to consider.

“When you're entering the university environment, it's incredibly important to have a clear understanding of the support services available to you. You also need to know where information comes from, how it's communicated, and where you should be looking for updates,” says Gréta.

“It is essential to become familiar with the Canvas learning management system and to check your RU email regularly, since that's where the most important announcements are sent. You should also familiarize yourself with the university calendar, which includes important dates such as midterm and final exams, so you always know what's coming up.

You should also make sure you understand all academic regulations, as well as your rights and responsibilities as a student. This is all very important for university students: knowing the academic timeline, understanding your degree structure, and carefully reviewing each course, including its requirements, organization, and methods of assessment.

As a student, it is your responsibility to stay informed. Information should be readily accessible through both the university website and the information screens around campus. Student Support is available to all RU students, and we strongly encourage everyone to make use of the support we offer.”

There are no silly questions

As its name suggests, RU Student Support offers a wide range of support, which Gréta is happy to explain.

“Let's start with the heart of RU: the Service and Information Desk in Sólin. This is where Gyða and Guðrún provide first-line assistance. There are no silly questions, so don't hesitate to stop by. Right next door is UTS, the university's IT Service Desk, where you can get help with anything technology-related.

Then there's the Student Registry, which oversees all exams at the university. In many ways, this office supports students from the moment they enroll until they graduate.

The office manages student registration, exams and graduation procedures. It's good for students to know that there's an entire team working behind the scenes to make all of this happen. The Student Registry is located next to the Service Desk.”

Gréta then continues the tour of the building.

“If you walk down the hallway leading to the library, you'll find what's called Skynvin—a sensory-friendly space where students can take a break from stimulation. Students are expected not to use electronic devices or eat there; the space is simply intended as a quiet place to retreat and recharge. For many students, this can be incredibly valuable.

Beyond that is our excellent library, where our skilled librarians are ready to support students. I encourage students to visit the library sooner rather than later to receive help with citations, literature searches, and many other aspects of academic work. There are specialists there who can provide invaluable guidance.”

It's good to have people in your corner

“Further along you'll find the Student Counselling Centre, which includes academic and career counselling as well as psychological services. This is another resource students should become familiar with. They provide support with planning, organization, and many other aspects of student life. The Student Counselling Centre helps guide students and ensures they receive the support they need.

Academic and career counsellors are a bit like academic coaches. You can also discuss personal matters with them. They are there to listen, answer questions, and help you reflect. Just like at the Service Desk, there are no silly questions. Having support and a clear overview of your studies is incredibly helpful because university life can often be demanding and stressful.

The psychological services support students in many different ways, and I encourage everyone to learn about what's available. Their work covers a broad range of issues, many of which are not directly related to academics. You need to be in a good place personally in order to take on challenging academic work. It's reassuring to know you have people in your corner.

Finally, Student Support also includes RU's International Office, which manages student exchange programs. Both incoming and outgoing exchange students are supported there. Even if you're not planning to study abroad during your first semester, it's worth learning about the opportunities available, gathering information, and taking part in the activities organized by the International Office.”

We are here for the students

Gréta emphasizes that students should make full use of everything Student Support has to offer, as the department is intended to be a cornerstone of student support at RU.

“Student Support is here to support every RU student. We are here for the students, and we work closely with the Student Association (SFHR). So, if there's ever anything you'd like to suggest or bring to our attention, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Knowing about the support and services available at RU makes a tremendous difference from the very beginning of your studies. It's important that students are aware of everything we have to offer.”