University is described as “the best three years of your life”, where you have the opportunity to meet new people and study at a top institution. The expectations are set up before you go to university of it being constant parties and having fun, without anyone reminding you of the reality of starting a new life in a city you barely know. For everyone, starting university is overwhelming, and it causes stress, with moving away from home, managing finances and the workload of studying for a degree.
But it is guaranteed that you are not alone, with your peers, flat mates and friends being in the same boat. One thing that particularly surprised me was how exhausting university can be and how much you are expected to balance. The workload of a degree can be overwhelming and despite the reassurance that “as long as you pass you’ll be fine”, the stress can sometimes take over.
Whether it be the fresher’s flu, homesickness or just generally feeling exhausted, everyone feels the same; you are never alone and these are common struggles everyone experiences in first year. In spite of these issues, there is always things you can do to reduce any nerves and anxiety you may be feeling. Keeping in contact regularly with friends, family and loved ones is an excellent way to reduce homesickness and vent any worries you have to those you trust. As daunting as it may seem, talk your flat mates about any issues you may be having. Even though you haven’t known them for a very long period of time, you are all going through the same experiences and they are probably just as scared as you are; don’t be afraid to make the first move! And there are a plethora of support teams for you to talk to such as your personal tutor or 24-hour online services, which are open to all students on campus.
As daunting as it may seem, talk your flatmates about any issues you may be having."
So, if there’s anything to take away from this is that whatever you’re feeling is normal; everyone is human and gets homesick, stressed and concerned during their first year at university. There’s a lot to adapt to in such a short space of time but there is always going to be someone feeling the same things you are. Don’t be scared to reach out.