Why Is Attendance at University So Important?

There’s a quiet smugness in simply showing up when others aren’t. Whether it’s an early morning lecture or and evening seminar during the dark winter months, attendance at university does more than just tick a box. It can set the tone for your academic progress, sharpen your skills, and connect you to your research in a deeper way.

In this article, we’re going to explain why being present truly matters. We’ll be talking grades, community, and much more, so let’s get right into it.

Attendance Sets You Apart

Life as a student is full of temptations and endless things to do, but the act of showing up to class is among the most basic of needs for every academic. Firstly, it signals a willingness to learn to your tutors, commitment to the course you’ve chosen, and ambition to yourself. This consistency also helps provide a structure to your time at university.

Missing one lecture is fine, and easy to catch up on. Missing ten? Suddenly you’re way behind in your studies and could be missing crucial pieces of information that you’ll need later on. Lectures often build on each other week after week, layering your knowledge as a result. When you’re always there, you’re brain naturally soaks up the info and creates a mental map of what you’re learning.

The Value of Learning In Person

Of course, we’ve all had to come to terms with the rise of remote learning since the Covid-19 Pandemic forced students away from campus. This being said, nothing can replace the energy of a lecture theatre. In class, your tutors can deliver things naturally and use their students as muses for further research. You can ask questions without the need for a strong internet connection, enhancing your learning experience as a result.

Studies have shown that students who have good attendance at university perform better than those who don’t turn up (seems pretty obvious to us)!

Away from academic success, being around your peers also helps create a course community and improves your social skills. This is particularly helpful for students travelling from overseas, out of town, or returning to their studies as a mature student.

Real Connections Begin in Class

University is as much about people as it is textbooks and grades. Some of the strongest friendships begin in lecture halls following a casual chat about shared interests. You could end up recruiting players for your five a side football team before a lecture about International Relations, or join a new society before an induction session.

Not Just Grades: Employers Care Too

A positive attendance record indicates commitment that employers notice after you graduate. Many recruiters seek out attendance figures as soft evidence of reliability, time management, and work ethic. Qualities that are all vital to success in the workplace.

It’s not about perfection as everyone has days off. However, a pattern of presence paints a picture of who you are as a student. Someone that always arrives, even when they don’t feel up for it shows you’re a hard worker.

A Note for the Many, Not the Few

No two students have the same pathway to success. You could be somebody balancing your work with childcare or part time work, or be adjusting to the customs of the UK after years of living elsewhere. Attendance may look different for you in some regards, but when you can it helps to create anchors that ensure you’re there.

This could mean attending your lectures via webcam or checking in with your tutors for extra support. Once again, proving your willingness to learn is more important than anything else.

You’re a Paying Customer

Remember, university isn’t free. You’ve paid a lot of money to be there, so by not turning up you are simply wasting your own investment in yourself. Next time you’re lying in bed ahead of an early start, consider that and you’ll soon be showered and out of the house.

Attendance Tips That Work

• Plan your week in advance by blocking lectures out on your calendar.
• Ask friends to call you if you aren’t outside the lecture hall by a certain time.
• Meet with your tutors if you’re ever struggling to get into university.
• Use tech wisely. Recordings and slides are support tools, not replacements.
• Build a routine that includes your lectures so you’re always present.

Find Support That Fits

Every UK university has support teams that handle attendance related issues. If getting in is proving difficult, particularly if you’re commuting, speak up sooner rather than later. Your course leaders will work with you to fix the problem.

To understand how some universities deal with poor attendance, explore this guide by the University of Liverpool. 

While you’re at it, you can find more helpful study tips on the Homes for Students blog. We’ve got guides relating to a wide range of student questions and problems.

Your Student Community

Beyond the classroom, university life is filled with opportunity. Why not attend some extra curricular TED talks? Or join a society on a whim. You could even discover a new city that’s right on the doorstep of your own.

All of this engagement simply brings your entire student experience together, and immerses you into the local culture and traditions. It all contributes towards your desire to succeed.

The Wrap Up

Attendance at university is vital, I think we’ve covered that. It can provide the platform for you to grow academically and socially, while also improving your employability moving forward.

So, the next time you’re tempted to hit snooze or head to Wetherspoon’s instead of turning up, remember that being there matters.

We’ve already saved you a seat…