So we’re carrying on with our tips for those of you moving away to uni to make sure that you’re really, really, (really) prepared. We have no doubt that all you soon-to-be freshers will absolutely boss it whatever university you’re going to, but we at Girl Got Faith pretty much see ourselves as your big sisters (awww!) and we’re here to make sure you leave the nest feeling totally ready.
- Be sure to take a few items that remind you of home
Some people are really good at adapting to new environments super quickly, but I’m sure there are loads of us who get homesick easily. Whatever the case, it’s a good idea to have a few things around you to remind you of your friends, family and special memories. This is also a great opportunity to get creative. Before I went off to uni, I bought a giant photo frame and stuck loads of my favourite pics on it. Every time I looked at the photos, I couldn’t help but smile. If putting something together isn’t really your thing, you can take a few individual photos, a cuddly toy, a special card, or anything else that’s of sentimental value.
- It’s ok to be nervous
Nerves are a perfectly normal part of going away to uni. It’s a really big move, so as you’re leading up to your big day, don’t feel like you have to be excited about it all the time. I’ve actually gone away to uni twice (once for my undergraduate degree and the other for my Masters) and I was actually way more nervous the second time round! Even if you are feeling a little on edge, just remember that loads of people are in exactly the same boat. If you have friends who are also going off to uni, it might be a good idea to meet up and have a little talk about it so can encourage one another and get any worries you have off your chest. You’re not alone, never forget that!
- Try to give things time
Uni is a great place, but you may find that you don’t enjoy it straight away. You’re not with your usual friends, you can no longer go to your home church and you may even be in a totally different city, or possibly country! Even if things don’t go as smoothly as you’d planned, don’t allow yourself to feel that your entire uni experience will be terrible. Just like the transition from primary school to secondary, and secondary school to college, it may take a while before you truly find your feet. The process may not be the easiest, but I’m sure that once you get past that initial uncomfortable stage, you’ll totally flourish.
- Be yourself!
I can’t stress how important this is! There are so many people who go off to uni with the purpose of “reinventing themselves”, but I really don’t believe you have to. God made you who you are for a reason and gurllllll, you need to own that! Whether you believe you’re a little quirky, kinda quiet, or way too loud, don’t feel you need to change anything about yourself. As you let your unique personality shine, the Lord will draw people to you who respect that!
