MANY teenagers starting university next month will have to navigate the tricky world of debt, coping away from home, and making new friends. But student life has plenty of plus points too.

Kirsty Bosley, aged 21, recalls arriving at Staffordshire University two years ago.

She moved to the Potteries from her family home in West Bromwich and lived in a university hall for her first year, later moving into a rented house in Shelton.

Kirsty said: "The main worry you have beforehand is whether you'll make friends. But everyone is in the same position.

"When you arrive, just speak to as many people as possible. Go out that first night and take part in the fresher's week activities."

Finances are likely to be the next big worry. A survey published yesterday by student guide Push.co.uk found debt levels have shot up by almost 10 per cent over the past year. The average amount owed by the time someone graduates is currently £17,500.

Although Kirsty doesn't have to pay back her £3,000-a-year fees until after her degree, surviving on a budget has been a challenge.

She qualified for a £2,700 maintenance grant and a bursary, also holding down a part-time job that first year. But in her second year she took out a student loan and ran up an overdraft.

Kirsty now pays £55 a week on rent, around £25 a week on food, and £25 on alcohol and going out.

"There are hidden costs that universities don't tell you about," she said. On her journalism degree course, for instance, students have to pay extra to take certain industry-accredited exams.

Recent national research by NatWest found the average student can expect to pay £70 a week on rent, more than £40 on food and nights out, £9 on books and other course materials, £9 on phone bills, and £4 on laundry.

But students should leave some back for other essentials, such as travel costs and property insurance – student digs are easy pickings for thieves.

Kirsty said: "It's really important to budget, especially with food. Shop around for cheaper brands and don't be tempted to get lots of takeaways."

Yet when it comes to degree level work, she has found it easier than A-levels.

"The main difference is you are choosing one area to study, rather than trying to juggle subjects.

"You do have deadlines to meet for your degree course. But because you're paying it's not worth giving up."