Oh to be a fresher once more!
If you’re a fresher still getting settled into uni life, don’t worry. There are literally thousands of people up and down the country in the same boat. And everything will be fine! Nevertheless, it’s inevitable that you will make mistakes along the way. When you graduate in 3/4/5 years times, I guarantee that you’ll look back and think “if only I knew”.
While some of those life lessons have to be discovered through experience, I hope these five lessons from my life can offer some guidance.
Friendships Won’t Last Forever
Will you form friendships that last for life while you’re at uni? Probably. But there’s a good chance that you’ll be able to count the number of them on one hand. I cannot stress just how important it is to stay in close contact with friends and family back home. They’re the ones that will be there for you once you’ve finished this exciting chapter of your life.
As for the new friendships you form in the next few weeks, try to enter them with an air of caution. Some will turn out to be amazing people; others may turn out to be bad influences. You can still throw yourself fully into those friendships. Just don’t leave yourself open.
It’s OK To Feel A Little Lost
This period of your life is one that’s filled with change and development. However, there will be many moments of self-doubt. For starters, there are various career pathways to consider, and this can direct your studies. Meanwhile, you’ll inevitably want to mature as a person and gain direction in love, interests, and various other aspects.
It can all get a little overwhelming at times, which is why finding a way to calm yourself is key. Whether it’s hitting the gym, reading a book, or going for a walk doesn’t matter. Attending to your mental health needs is vital for all students.
Part-Time Student Jobs Are Rubbish
Money matters; there’s no escaping that fact. Earning a little money to supplement your student loan is pretty important, but many of the jobs on offer to students are rubbish. The hours are unsociable, the pay is poor, and there’s little opportunity to learn skills.
The CMC Markets trading platform can help you earn money from your computer. Meanwhile starting a blog lets you express your creativity and build connections for later life. Unless you can actively learn something that will benefit your future, leave the supermarket jobs for when you return home in the summer.
Uni Isn’t All About Lectures
I’ve previously covered the fact that I believe uni to be worth the debt. However, if you started your course with the idea that lecturers will guide you to greatness, you’re wrong. Autonomous study is vital, which is why you’ll need to get organised and learn to maximise your time. This is a major part of your growth.
The student life is also a time to develop as a person. Learning valuable skills like cooking and cleaning are a start. Buzzfeed is a great starting point. Ultimately, though, it’s about taking responsibility for your actions in all situations. Do this, and you won’t go far wrong.
It Goes Too Fast!
You’ve probably heard it a thousand times already, but it’s so true. Whatever you do at uni, be sure to make the most of it.
