My first week of university was full of emotions. There were highs and lows, laughter and tears, but most importantly, memories that I will cherish forever. Saying goodbye was hard, realising that university was suddenly happening and I actually had to leave my mum! I was already missing the familiarity of my home town and my sixth form, where everyone knew everyone. I felt like I was on my own on this new journey, in a new place, with new people. In reality, everyone was in the same boat as me, just as scared.
I learnt that it’s okay to be scared. It’s also okay to feel like you’ve made the wrong decision. But the most important thing to remember is that it does get better. Admittedly, I doubted this. I thought I would forever be wishing I was back home with my mum. I promise, that this feeling does pass. Within 5 days I was as happy as could be. Yes, I still missed home, but I was also enjoying every second of my time at the University of Bath. The scenery, friendliness of everyone, and the contagious happiness of fresher’s week definitely helped me to settle in. Freshers nights helped to distract me from feelings of homesickness, and each day, the transition from living at home to living alone became so much easier. The truth is, you’re never actually alone here at Bath. There is always someone to turn to when you want to cry, or just need someone to talk to.
Living on campus was a huge benefit. My accommodation is central to everywhere I need to be, with plenty of places to eat and drink within a minutes’ walk! I immediately made friends with my flatmates, and made sure to explore the new area that I will be calling home for the next three years. Although, I do still get lost going to lectures! Day 2 was spent shopping in the city of Bath, buying all the needed accessories for the various themes of freshers. Within hours, I was all set for each night of Freshers week – a neon pink top for UV night and a bed sheet for toga night. The rest of the week comprised of welcome talks to the department of social sciences, where I was able to meet the people on my course. It was weird to be going back to learning after such a long summer off, but I’m so glad we had the talks. It brought routine to the week which I desperately needed to help me settle in.
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