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Going to university is, of course, a great way to push yourself academically and get to the career you have always dreamed of. However, it’s also so much more than the degree you get at the end. It’s about learning about life, growing as an individual, experiencing new things and so much more.
I attended Solent University in Southampton and studied BA (Hons) Make-Up and Hair Design before going on to get a masters in Visual Communication. Honestly, my career now is so far from what I came to university to do – but was it wasted? Hell no! It was all worth it for the life lessons and the journey into becoming an adult.
1. Finding Independence
It’s always a huge (and sometimes scary) change when you move to university. Everything you do is so independent and it can be overwhelming. Over time, it will become natural to you. You’ll develop a routine, start to get more organised, and be able to fully function independently.
Now, later in life, it has helped me so much. I’m able to think and work more independently than I did before university.
2. Don’t Change Who You Are to Get People to Like You
You might feel a bit of pressure to make friends with everyone you meet. Changing parts of yourself to fit in may seem like the easy option, but it’s not healthy. Hold out – you will find people who like you as you are.
I struggled a lot with this in the first few months of university, if you’re interested in hearing my story then check out this podcast I did for ‘It’s Your Life (and this is mine):
3. Time Management
This might be a little more related to studies, but I slowly learned to master managing my time well and prioritising a work-life balance. I could do a whole separate blog post on time management, but the main focus for me was small to-do lists, having specific study areas and rewarding myself with fun things after university work.
4. It’s Okay to Ask For Help
University is a rollercoaster of emotions for many people. I really struggled with my mental health during my university years and it took a lot for me to ask for help – I wish I asked for it earlier. If you’re feeling rough – let someone know. There are so many people who care and also so many resources at your university that can help you.
5. People Come and Go
Getting used to the fact that not everyone is a forever friend was a huge learning curve for me. People will come and go out of your life so regularly at university. Everyone is growing, learning and changing all the time, so know that it’s okay to grow apart.
6. Creative Thinking & Problem Solving
Again, this is slightly more study related, but learning these skills was a huge breakthrough for me. Even though I didn’t end up working in the field I studied, these skills have helped me in my current job so much. You’ll learn problem-solving skills that can help you resolve issues in life, work, etc. You’ll also learn how to think creatively – no matter what your course is. These are valuable skills that make studying so worth it, no matter what you end up doing.
7. Join Things You’re Interested In!
Not only is this a great way to make friends, but you’ll enjoy your university experience more if you surround yourself with things you enjoy. All universities have societies and clubs you can join, as well as local events you can attend. Prioritise your interests and push yourself out of your comfort zone to meet new people.
8. It’s Okay to Not Know What You Want to Do
Don’t feel pressured to know exactly what you want to do with the rest of your life. So many people never end up entering the field they went to study – and that’s okay! Feeling lost is part of the process – you’ll spend years and years figuring it out and that’s so normal! You might see people around you acing it and thriving in their studies, but don’t compare yourself. One day you’ll find exactly where you fit.
9. Reward Yourself for Small Milestones
This was a huge part of my time management and productivity – rewarding myself! It’s good to work hard but remember that you deserve treats. Finished an essay? Cleaned your room? Submitted a project? – do something fun! Whether you enjoy nights out, watching a film, hanging with friends, etc. let yourself do those things as a reward for hard work! Not only does this let you have fun, but it also prioritises getting work done.
10. Making Meals Out of Literally Anything
A slightly more chilled one to end this off – but I really did learn how to make meals out of the most random ingredients. Whether you’re budgeting or just can’t be bothered to go to the shops, you’ll scramble something together. If it ends up being delicious – result!
Now, almost a year after finishing my masters, I can truly look back and reflect on everything. University was one of the most valuable experiences of my life. Even if it didn’t go perfectly (it never does), the strong, creative and educated person it made me is beyond worth it.
If you’re currently in the middle of your degree, just about to start or even still in school, remember these things:
- Nobody’s university experience is perfect
- It’s okay to change your mind
- Enjoy life outside of classes
- You can’t please everyone – just be you
with love,
becky
Author
