Coventry University graduate Rhys is here to take us all through his top 5 Freshers’ Expectations vs. Reality. What is myth and what is truth? Let’s find out!
So you’re all set and your university experience is just about to begin, this is an exciting and nervous time for new students. Many of you will have built up pretty big expectations of the ‘university experience’, basing your assumptions on TV shows, Facebook photos of friends on nights out, or what you’ve been told. I listened to ‘I love college by Asher Roth’ and that pretty much sold the experience for me.
At UnCOVered we like to think a bit more realistically about things. I mean, let’s face it, TV shows are scripted, and no one is going to be miserable in a picture on Facebook for their followers to see. So we’ve come up with the most common assumptions future students have of university, with the idea of bringing you back down to earth (a bit) with some reality of what it’s really like!
Check them out below:
Assumption 1: Uni is where EVERYONE finds their future wife/husband
Reality: So… You Like… Stuff?
A lot of people assume they’ll find their future soul mate at uni. I’m not saying this won’t happen, but don’t let the ‘Wills and Kate’ fairy tale fool you!
Assumption 2: I’m gonna love everyone and make super best friends for life with EVERYONE!
Reality: I have this one friend I would walk through Mordor with
The only thing you might have in common with some people you meet, is going to the same uni. But university IS one of the best places to meet new people and make friends. You’ll meet people on your course, in halls, and on random nights out. But it’s important to understand you don’t have to make best buds with everyone.
Assumption 3: Student loan day is like winning the lottery
Reality: Get to know noodles
So student loan has dropped into your account, and for some, this is the most money they’ve ever seen in their account (well, that was the case for me). Time to splash out on that overpriced outfit you’ve had your eye on for months, and drinks are on you! Right? … Unfortunately, that attitude has some big downsides.
If you read my last post on 5 things I learned in first year at CU, you’ll know how big I am on the old ‘budget’, and how important it is. Manage your money so you can afford to get through the 3 months until your next loan is in. Seriously!
Assumption 4: I don’t need my parents anymore. See ya old life!
Reality: Oh God, I miss the dishwasher
In the first few weeks I found myself a little bit homesick, everything I’d ever known was no longer just around the corner, and I felt lonely. Living in a new city by yourself takes some getting used to, so it’s important to give yourself time to adapt. After a while I was more settled, trips back home became less frequent, and I started to enjoy myself more at university. Now I feel like a local, but make sure you give it time!
Assumption 5: Freshers’ flu
Reality: Freshers’ flu
Where assumption and reality become one! It catches out even the best of us, with all that partying and what not in the first few weeks. It took me down in the first few days! I’m sure it can be avoided, however, pack plenty of vitamins, some paracetamol or ibuprofen, and remember to wrap up warm when you’re out if it’s cold… Just in case!
Have the BEST time as you start your university adventure. It really is THE once in a lifetime experience. Let us know if you’ve had any funny expectations vs. reality moments!
