Now that my last exam is complete and the academic year comes to a close, it’s hard to believe that I am officially 1/3 of the way through my degree!
Looking back, now the nerves and anxiety I felt moving into halls and embarking on the start of my University adventure seem totally unnecessary and like a very distant memory.
This year has definitely been a learning curve for me and I have gained many valuable experiences that have helped shape the person I am heading into the year ahead.
As a result, I thought I’d share a some of the things I have learnt from my first year in Worcester.
People Change.
Perhaps one of the most significant things I have learnt is that not everyone is who they appear to be during Fresher’s and over time, everyone’s true colours emerge for better or worse.
Sometimes the people you think are your best friends at the start will become those you really can’t get along with in the end. Remember that that’s okay, everyone can’t like everyone right?
Mum Rocks.
Another big lesson is realising how much your mum actually does for you. I definitely took for granted having my meals cooked every day and my washing magically disappearing from the laundry basket and reappearing in a lovely ironed pile waiting for me.
However, I have also learnt that I can do it too and am now much more confident and independent in myself – even if I do cart my washing home when visiting.
Societies Rule.
One thing I can definitely say is that things would not have been the same without joining a society. Everything from social nights to performing in a musical and a panto with some of my closest friends has made this year so special to me and has meant my DIY costumes skills are now on point!
Everyone Makes Mistakes.
As a Psychology student, I have learnt that mistakes are okay – first year grades don’t count towards my overall degree classification, so it has been one big learning curve.
Yes, referencing sucks, statistics are hard and group work is never fun, but I’ve taken it in my stride, tried my best and feel proud and ready to take on my second year head on.
Cheese is Expensive.
Honestly, finding out the price of cheese blew me away during my first solo shopping trip. £3.50 for Cathedral City? Madness! In fact, I’ve learnt a lot about budgeting and the benefits of shopping around this year too.
Friends are for Life.
Soppy part alert! I’ve been so lucky to have spent this year in the company of amazing people. I’ve learnt that time isn’t a factor in friendship and people I have known for a year can be better friends to me than people I have known for several. I definitely believe that the friends I have gained this year will be with me forever.