Dear Agony Ant,
I'm feeling conflicted in myself- it's my first time living away from home and I'm not sure how to adjust myself to the big city. What do I do, it's like a midlife crisis for a fresher?!
Dear reader,
It’s only natural to feel a little conflicted during such a big shift in your life. First year in particular marks a prominent change in your progression but I'm sure many other students, even in higher stages, will have experienced similar feelings. I’d say it’s important to note that you don’t necessarily have to consider yourself one or the other: small town dweller or big city newbie- the beauty of being a student is that you get to be both. Whilst identity struggles can feel daunting to navigate, highlighting the positives of each persona and creating a kind of franken-identity might be the best course of action. The niche aspects of your history; the town you grew up in, your teenage mischief and habits set you apart from others on campus and leave room for some individuality. At the same time, the shared experience of coming to grasps with a new city and your university endeavours like degree and societies subscribe you to the communal elements of student-hood. During these formative years, how you view yourself is constantly evolving, one on hand you’re the same you that you’ve always been and on the other, there’s so much growth to account for. Stability in your identity will come with time but for now, just embrace getting to know yourself in this new city- and your hometown will always be there for you.