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Things I Wish I'd Known Before Coming To University ...


As I am coming to the end of my second year, I have most certainly learnt some (or most) things the hard way. Below, is a list of some of the things that I wish I had known before I headed off into the world alone, with nothing other than ten GCSE’s, three A-Levels and a whole load of excited curiosity.


1. Freshers Flu is NOT a myth ­– I think most of us will learn this the hard way. I honestly thought that 'Freshers Flu' was just a University myth and that it wasn’t actually a thing... Let me tell you now, IT IS! Thinking back, I suffered worse in my second year than I did when I was actually a fresher! As much as it pains me to admit, that’s how you know you’re getting older.

2. Sleep? – Again, something we all learn the hard way. Your sleeping pattern will become non-existent. I can’t actually remember the last time I fell asleep at a reasonable time… I mean, it’s most probably self-inflicted from all of the nights where I stumble home at 4am, but we will tell the parents it’s due to the number of "studious hours we’re putting in at the 24-hour, student library"… Also, whilst we are still on the topic of sleep… Naps are necessary – period. You'll find yourself having a four hour day of lectures and then going home to reward yourself with a nap, trust me.

3. Daylight Robbery: Student Estate Agents – Anything to get those few extra pennies (that you really don’t have) out of your pocket. Student Estate Agents honestly know all the tricks in the book to take advantage of your vulnerability. I highly recommend going with a private landlord, that way there are no agency fees included and you’re able to get in direct contact with them as and when you need to.

4. “80% of people meet their partner whilst at Uni” – Well I’m over half way through my degree and I haven’t even met with my personal tutor … let alone my partner.

There is no point putting a time on anything, especially when it comes to finding love. As my mum always says: “it will come when you least expect it”. What is the rush? Do what you feel is best for you. Live your best life.

5. It’s okay to be overwhelmed – As much as we would all like it to be, Uni is not meant to be easy nor a walk in the park. It’s there to throw you in completely at the deep end, push you extensively beyond your comfort zone and create opportunities ready for the future ahead of us. There will be times when you feel like you have hit rock bottom and that you “aren’t meant for this” we all feel that sometimes – it’s almost inevitable. Don’t feel as though you have to go through this alone. Everyone is in the same boat as you. Talk to others, that’s what they are there for – make the most of it.

6. It is what it is – At the end of the day, it is what it is. Your university experience will be completely what you make of it. Whether you are the type that enjoys going out or you’re the complete polar opposite and would rather have your head in a book … that is okay! At university, there really is something for everyone. The diversity is incredible.


Without a doubt, choosing to come to Uni has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only have I learnt a lot in terms of the academic side but it has also given me a chance to learn more about myself as a person. I would highly recommend it to anybody. Just make sure you visit the open days to ensure that it really is the right one for you. Making the decision of coming to Uni is the easy part, choosing which University is much more difficult.


But, most importantly, all that’s left to say is … ENJOY IT!


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