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I got a big shock when coming to uni. I imagined it to be a lot of assignments and late nights out. Although a lot of that is true, I was surprised to see a plethora of cultures around me. 

Coming from outside of the country to study at BNU was exciting but nerve racking. I couldn’t see family on the weekend unless I was ready to book a flight. I was navigating how to adjust to the new cultures of a country I moved to and all the other people surrounding me. 

Meeting new people

The best part of my first month in uni was meeting people with similar interests, by signing up to societies. I was able to build friendships in societies such as , and the . Joining societies really helped me feel less alone and enjoy my first month at uni better. In these societies we had social nights where we got to play fun games and get to know each other. It was refreshing getting to know new faces and have fun conversations with others. 

Looking after yourself

Adjusting to living alone was something that I didn’t think I would struggle with. However, I quickly began to reminisce and miss coming back home to freshly cooked meals after having a long day. Although there were some days back home where I used to cook for myself after a long day, I missed not having to think of whether I have anything in my fridge when I got back to my flat or if it’s another pot noodle kind of day. 

Living alone was a task during my first month at uni. It truly is a big adjustment because you quickly realise that the responsibility has been given to you to make sure you take care of yourself; by eating nutritious foods, drinking enough water, getting a good night sleep and exercising (even though a lot of uni students still struggle with these). All of this is crucial to ensure that you do not burn out the first month you step into uni. I quickly found this out when I would find myself tired from long lecture days and not take any time to spend with friends or to take care of my body. 

The community of BNU

As mentioned previously community plays a major role in a student’s life at uni. Events that the university throw such as Waved (an African, Caribbean, RnB and Hip-Hop night) and Society Takeovers were such great nights to relax and switch off for a couple hours. 

I truly learnt the importance of community and spending time with others because it boosted my energy and was something to look forward to. It’s inevitable that you are going to find some things tough at uni and other things about uni that you will truly enjoy. However, I think it is important to understand that it is your first month coming to a new place, interacting with new people and navigating a new chapter in your life. 

Give yourself grace and try reminding yourself that mistakes are meant to be made because that is how we learn and that life is meant to be enjoyed because who doesn’t want to have a fun time?!