Feeling nervous about uni? Starting a new course can be an intimidating experience, especially when you find yourself in a foreign country. However, by reframing your perspective, you’ll discover that these initial fears aren’t as daunting as they initially seem.
Nervous for university? It’s important to acknowledge that you’re not alone in feeling this way. The nervousness and anxiousness in the pit of your stomach are common among first-semester students, even those attending their hometown university. Instead of viewing these feelings negatively, consider them as excitement. The fluttering heart, giddy energy, and restlessness are all signs of anticipation. By consciously reframing your nervousness as excitement, you can trick your brain into adopting a more positive outlook.
Remember, there’s much to be excited about! University marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life, allowing you to explore adulthood in a supportive environment where you can experiment and grow. You’ll acquire knowledge, critical thinking skills, and valuable qualifications that will benefit you in the future. Moreover, you’ll have the opportunity to meet a diverse range of individuals who share your interests. Lifelong friendships are often forged at university, thanks to the shared experiences unique to this stage of life.
If you find the whole experience still overwhelming, here are a few suggestions to consider:
Embrace new experiences:
Explore all the activities and clubs that interest you and even some that don’t. You never know what niche might captivate your interest. University campuses offer clubs for various interests, ensuring you’ll find like-minded individuals at freshers’ fairs. Whether you’re a passionate Harry Potter fan or deeply involved in a particular sport, there’s likely a club or society that aligns with your interests. If you can’t find a group that suits your creativity and culture, you can even start your own club.
Attend freshers’ events:
Push yourself to attend a few freshers’ nights, even if you don’t drink alcohol. These events may initially seem intimidating but remember that everyone else is feeling the same level of awkwardness. Participate in activities and strike up conversations with fellow students. It’s an opportunity to meet new people and potentially form lasting connections.
Be authentic:
Although it’s a common cliché, being yourself is crucial. Authenticity is noticeable, and people are drawn to it. Embrace your quirks, unique characteristics, and idiosyncrasies, as they make you relatable to others. With the diverse range of personalities at university, there will undoubtedly be students who appreciate someone just like you.
Take initiative:
If there are people you want to talk to, don’t hesitate to approach them. Everyone is in a similar situation, and initiating a conversation takes courage. Most often, people will respect and appreciate your confidence. If someone doesn’t reciprocate, it simply means they’re not the right fit for you. By taking the initiative, you’ll learn about yourself and demonstrate bravery.
Be authentic:
Although it’s a common cliché, being yourself is crucial. Authenticity is noticeable, and people are drawn to it. Embrace your quirks, unique characteristics, and idiosyncrasies, as they make you relatable to others. With the diverse range of personalities at university, there will undoubtedly be students who appreciate someone just like you.
Seek support when needed:
Remember that you’re not alone. University campuses provide an array of support services, including peer support, academic assistance, financial aid, and mental health resources. It’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed and have doubts. If you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. By vocalising your worries, they often become more manageable, and the right people can offer practical support to help you regain your footing.
Embrace this exciting new phase of your life. Immerse yourself in all that university has to offer, and don’t forget to be kind to yourself. If you encounter challenges, always remember that support is available. Reach out to student services to ensure your safety and success. Have faith in yourself and believe that you have the capability to navigate this journey successfully.
