I think the title of this post says it all – three years of
planning, writing to-do lists and constantly trying to balance my time
completing deadlines whilst working part-time and socialising has now come to
an end. I am no longer a student (well technically I am until Graduation but
still).
I would like to clarify a widely held view. Yes, university is a life-changing experience.
I am certainly not the same 18 year old who gathered up her belongings to set
up camp for 9 months in Halls, as I’m sure many of you can relate to. It provides you with the confidence and
independence to live on your own and start a career.
I figured this celebratory moment of no more essays and
stationary expenditure (the amount of note pads I’ve bought is quite ridiculous)
deserved its own post as it’s quite a big deal really. I’m now going to attempt
to share with you the top 10 changes I have experienced (some clichés may be
hard to avoid sorry!) whilst offering advice to those of you who are starting
uni in September. Here we go.
1.
I like that, I don’t like that
-
When I left school I thought I knew myself, but in
hindsight I was naïve in some ways. I was more susceptible to people’s
influence, and felt nervous questioning things and stating my opinion.
University has made me more direct and assertive. Mid-year 2 I began to occupy
the moto “if you don’t ask you don’t get”. It’s important to go after what you
want, especially in terms of your career. Take every opportunity you can and be
open to new possibilities.
2.
Learn what makes you stress
-
This is something I wish I had paid more careful
attention to in Year 2 when the workload picked up. My body does not respond
well to stress, so I encourage you to think about your possible stress triggers
and find ways of dealing with them. This could be through regular exercise and
healthy eating – join the gym (use your loan!), join a sports team or society,
and make time for relaxation and socialising.
3.
Taking on too much
-
It can be easy to think because you’re only in
uni 8 hours a week that you can take on anything! (I thought this in year 3)
But only take on as much as you can handle. We don’t want you having a meltdown!
My advice would be to do more volunteering and part-time work in year 1 and 2, as
that is when you had more free time, rather than year 3 as this is when uni
work needs to be a priority.
4.
Save up!
-
Words cannot describe the feelings of ecstatic
joy and sadness when I reached the unbearable realisation that I had just
received my last student loan. It remains a daunting realisation (1 month later…)
as the government will no longer be supporting you. You’re now an adult who has
to fend for yourself. Therefore, if you can, get a part-time job throughout uni
and during the summer and save your money, so that you aren’t worrying about
money in third year.
5.
You appreciate the necessities
-
Living on my own has made me appreciate the
necessities: gas, electric and water. Being responsible for paying the bills
has been one of my biggest learning experiences.
6.
Helpful apps!
-
Some apps in particular have been my savour on
nights out in London, I encourage you to get them – City Mapper, Uber taxis and
Bus London.
7.
You’ll find your passion
-
Remember that hobby you used to do when you were
younger? That may remerge and you’ll realise how much you loved it. For me that
was writing. I view writing as a form of self-expression and find that it helps
me get it all out; my worries, fears and aspirations.
8.
Acceptance
-
Life doesn’t always pan out the way you want it
to. This is something I’m currently coming to terms with and it isn’t easy,
especially when applying for jobs. It’s about learning how to be open to the opportunities
life brings and not forcing things to happen if they’re not meant to.
9.
Friends
-
Moving away, being in a different environment,
going out – you are bound to lose people along the way but you will also meet
new people. I’m lucky enough to have established a close group of friends who
are loyal, supportive and are always there to put a smile on my face! These are
the people I want to give my time to because they appreciate me. Thanks guys
10.
Confidence
-
Thought I’d save the best till last, which
relates back to the first point. Because you know yourself more, your
confidence will increase. University will push you to be independent and take
on more responsibilities. You will continuously meet new, different people who
will teach you more about yourself.
