A firsthand account of starting university

I remember the nerves. I remember the excitement. I was asking myself questions like – “What if I don’t get on with my flatmates?”, “what if they don’t like me”, “how am I going to cope on my own?” It’s safe to say I was anxious about starting University.

I walked into the kitchen at Court 15, and there I met my flatmate and now one of my best friends. It was awkward at first, meeting new people, and more than a little bit scary. But, that night we all went to the Engine Shed and it was almost like we’d been friends for years.

It was because we were all in the same boat. All nervous, a little homesick and excited about the future.

Over the first week, I attended as many inductions for my course as I could, which I thoroughly recommend. I met all my coursemates and they, like my housemates, were feeling all the same emotions I was.

I continued to meet loads of different people throughout the first few weeks of University but, after a few months, it was clear who I would be friends with, hang out with and socialise with. This will happen either because you just lose contact with people or it’s clear that you’re not going to get on.

But, the social aspects of University, meeting new people and joining societies makes it very easy to adapt and start University socially speaking.

In terms of academic study, my tutors were very helpful explaining what each module entitled and answered any questions we had. The best thing about your first year is what you learn, because you’re ensuring that you will have the skills needed to continue your next years at University. It will also build upon the skills and experience you have learnt studying for your A-Levels.

During this first year, you will also be able to get an understanding of what you specifically like about your course. I was recommended trying modules that you might not naturally gravitate to because you never know you might find a new passion.

For instance, I liked modern history previously and swore off any other time in History, but after trying a medieval module, I realised that I enjoyed studying that era and continued that module in my 2^nd and 3^rd years.

The first year starting at University will be such an exciting time in your life. For me, it was a nerve-wracking and intellectually fascinating time.  I met so many people, some of whom I keep in contact with to this very day. I was worried and anxious, but in hindsight, I don’t know what I was worried about both, socially and academically. There was support for me and ways in which I was able to meet people and adapt to University life and studying in higher education – and it continues as I continue to study my masters.

I recommend getting involved in societies to see what suits you, but don’t worry, you will find your feet whilst studying. By second year you will be wondering what you were worried about.