My final year at university

As I go into my final year at university, here are 5 things I'd tell my first-year self.

1. Put yourself out there

University is full of amazing people to meet, and many fun experiences to be had as a result. Those nights out in the town, singing your heart out in the upstairs of a random pub. You won’t get to experience any of that if you stay sat in your room! Everyone is in the same boat as you, everyone is just as nervous as you. So, get out of that room and go show everyone who you are!

2. Make use of facilities on offer

ARU has tons of great amenities at the fingertips of students. One that is especially useful is Media Services. Never again in your life will you have access to all this professional-grade equipment to hire and use at no cost to yourself. Make the most of it, even beyond classes, to add some professional flair and bring your passion projects to life. It’s all so easy to access and sign up, so make the most of it.

3. Take part in as many extra-curricular activities as possible

Sometimes as a student, those email bulletins you get advertising extra stuff you can do can seem annoying or pointless. But let me tell you, they are the exact opposite. You could be one email reply away from learning a new skill that can be essential in your future career or meeting some amazing people that could end up being lifelong friends. University life is about so much more than just the degree you earn at the end of it.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask for support

Assignments can be difficult; workloads can get intense. However, one thing I wish I did earlier was reach out for support. It can be a tricky thing to do, especially when you’re starting out and feeling the need to prove yourself to a new set of teachers. Just know that you’ll never be judged for asking for help, you are not expected to tackle it all alone. Teaching staff, Welcome Buddies, and Personal Development Tutors are all incredibly friendly and willing to help if you just shoot them an email. The last thing any member of staff wants is to see you fail.

5. Lastly, Enjoy your time at university

It will go fast, and I mean FAST. It feels like yesterday when my parents were moving nervous first-year me into my university halls, now I am sitting here as a final year student racing toward graduation day. The time will FLY by. There will be ups and downs but stick with it. You’re making lifelong memories without even knowing it.