8 Books University Students Should Read

It seems ridiculous to me that I graduated from university 5 years ago now! Where has the time gone? When I left for university in 2013 I was desperate for reading material about life at uni.

As such, I thought I would share a few books you can purchase to prepare yourself for university life.

8 Books University Students Should Read

Freshers by Tom Ellen and Lucy Ivison

An obvious choice is the YA novel, Freshers. Phoebe and Luke have just started at university, Luke is newly single and Phoebe is crushing on him. But during the course of the year lots of typical uni-things happen, and it’s a romance where you constantly wonder ‘will they ever find each other?’

Normal People by Sally Rooney

For fans of literary fiction, I suggest Normal People by Sally Rooney. Not only is the book incredible but so is the TV series. It focuses on Marianne and Connell who were in a secret romantic relationship at school and then find themselves reconnected at University in Ireland. Their roles in society are reversed and their educations vary, it’s a brilliantly written and honest look at life at university and the relationships that develop there.

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

Not my favourite, but an obvious choice for books about university. This story is about a group of students studying Greek, and their ‘secret society’ which turns murderous. It’s part mystery, part social commentary on class and it’s very prose-y.

Radio Silence by Alice Oseman

For those that are worried about going to university, this is the book for you. It’s set in the final year of school but the story follows two friends/neighbours as they get into university and the idea of letting go of their pasts.

The Opposite of Loneliness by Marina Keegan

A heart-wrenching collection of non-fiction and short stories from the late Marina Keegan. Marina was tragically killed in a car crash shortly after she graduated, but her works were published posthumously and they’re fantastic in my opinion. Honest, raw and creative.

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

Starting on move-in day, this story follows an introverted university student who lives to write fan fiction. Of course, a romance ensues, and their friendships and typical YA ups and downs. Good fun and a great introduction to university living.

Very Good Lives by J.K. Rowling

J.K. Rowling is a bit persona-non-grata right now, but her speech to the Harvard graduating class of 2008 is still relevant. For students that are currently at uni, this is a good and inspiring read.

After by Anna Todd

And finally, for the more risqué readers among you, why not go for the trashy guilty pleasure that is After by Anna Todd. No, the romance is nothing like you’ll experience at university but it’s a fun opening read for life in a new education system.

Those are my top suggestions. What about you? Let me know if you have any university book recommendations in the comments below.

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