I was uprooted from my home in London into a new area, which was challenging in itself. Not to mention that weeks later, it was time to face an even bigger giant: beginning university. The jump to higher education is something you can only partially prepare for. It’s a pivotal time that can only be addressed once you are in it.

Writing this, I wanted to avoid solely involving my opinion; I want readers to hear the voices of others who have also undergone difficulties at university. So, I asked some of my friends who attend universities all over the UK about their biggest challenges and how they overcame them.

Meesha’s Advice:

“I don’t think I was prepared for how different university compared to college. Everyone gets excited about how much freedom exists at university, but they don’t realise how stressful this freedom can be. You’re literally in control of your education. I had to establish self-discipline and balance in order to create a balance between work and ‘play.’

Teachers aren’t going to persistently remind you to do your homework; you need to take responsibility of that on your own. Initially it is a challenge to be at such a level of maturity, but I’d advise newbies to remember their priorities. Don’t be out partying if you have an incomplete essay due the next day.”

Celso’s Advice:

“I really struggled with fear. I’m quite a social guy so I didn’t think that making new friends would be a struggle. Funnily, I was only okay until it came to actually talking to people. I got in my head. The thing is all the first years are in the same boat so if you’re having worries, chances are the person next to you is too. But something in me snapped and I just thought ‘I have nothing to lose.’ Just dive in headfirst because overthinking only limits you having fun. Pretend to be confident if you have to because I guarantee you that most people around you are doing the same thing.”

Chantelle’s Advice:

“My advice to all university students, not just the first years, is to learn yourself. That was my biggest problem because prior to university, I was in an environment where all I had to do was exist within a group. What I mean by that is in secondary school, everyone’s just mucking about, taking it day by day, whereas in university, you’re segregated from the bubble you could hide in. It’s a time that is new for all, so nobody knows themselves fully nor how they’ll cope in that environment.

I can’t tell you what will work for everyone but what really helped me to overcome identity crisis was spending time with myself. A lot of people feel like they have to reinvent themselves at university, but that doesn’t always establish who you are. Don’t feel like you need to change in order to accommodate what people think university is about. I have friends that are all about the party lifestyle, which is fine for them. But I spent a lot of time doing things I’ve loved since childhood, like singing and reading. Keeping in touch with my faith also kept me grounded. Get to know yourself.”

I wholeheartedly relate and agree with everything that was said! I’ve just started my second year and I understand what Chantelle was saying about identity crisis. It’s not like you complete first year and all of a sudden, all of these challenges go away. You are constantly learning yourself and experiencing life as an adult. For anyone reading this who isn’t a first-year student, don’t feel left out because I have words for you too.

Shyleen’s Advice:

“I’m at a place where I want to start moulding my future. I want to do as much as I can to build up my skillset so I’m constantly putting myself up for new opportunities. Sometimes I feel like I’m not in the place I should be in life. My mum always reminds me that I’m still so young and my life is just starting, so for now I’m making as many connections as possible in order to further my blossoming career.

It's normal to not have everything figured out right at this instant. Life will play out in the way it’s supposed to, and what is for you will come to you.”

Marwah’s Advice:

“Stress! Sometimes your mind really gets the better of you, and you find yourself drowning in a pool of work and overthinking at all times of night. This is not healthy and doesn’t solve anything you’re stressing about. I’m too focused on work sometimes that I forget to cater to my mental health, find an outlet…figure out what’s your thing. Don’t neglect your mental health.”

Take it from those who were in your position this time last year. You’ll be okay. Our university also has a comforting, non-judgmental Mental Health department if you need anyone to speak to. Good luck everyone!