A Birdseye view of the city of Lincoln covered in snow

Getting over the initial fear of a new city

As I waited for my A-level results the excitement of starting university was unreal. A new chapter, fresh start, new friends and a new place to live. As the days drew closer and closer to starting university the idea of moving away became more and more daunting and the nerves started to kick in.

On my first day at the University of Lincoln, I was overwhelmed with homesickness. I was going to be away from home, away from my family and friends. I didn’t actually think I would still be here a week later. However, after that first week, I could happily say that my perspective completely changed. The fact was, I was far from alone, I had already grown close to my flatmates and developed a love for the both the University and the city that I now called home.

As a keen foodie, during fresher’s week I set out to explore the city, to see what hidden gems I could find. This made Lincoln feel even more like home. I head to the cobbled streets of ‘Steep Hill‘, and it wasn’t long until I had discovered ‘Basecamp’,  which is hands down one of the best cafes I have ever been to. They made the most wonderful homemade cakes, sandwiches and warm homemade bagels… I mean what more could you want?

As I walked out of the café, I couldn’t wait to explore Lincoln a little more, find hidden gems and begin the new chapter of my life in Lincoln. If there was one piece of advice that I could give new students, it would be to do as I did, and explore the city as much as you can! Lincoln is full of so many wonderful hidden gems, with a high street, bursting with your standard shops, as well as independent shops and cafes, that are all perfect when you want a little ‘me’ time.

So, what I have learned from this is that although you may feel the very real urge to go home and say that you can’t do it, like I did, trust me, you can do it. And soon, this new and slightly daunting place will become your home, the place you love and a place you are proud to be part of.

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