Have faith in yourself and your taste – you’re about to meet a whole lot of new people, some older and wiser, some younger and dumber, and they’re going to have strong opinions on your opinions. That’s okay, it generates good conversation! You don’t need to feign ignorance for fear of getting it wrong or abandon the things you love just because someone else doesn’t like them. Stay true to yourself, always.
You’re going to lose your way – a good few times – so don’t beat yourself up about it. This is university, and it’s a learning experience in more ways than one. The mistakes you make don’t define you as a person, it’s how you move on and learn from them that does. People will come and go, but the good ones will stay – connection can be found in the most unlikely of places, and you don’t need to become friends for life with the first people you meet. You’ll still live with the people you met in the flat above you when you’re 22 years old.
This is university, and it’s a learning experience in more ways than one. The mistakes you make don’t define you as a person, it’s how you move on and learn from them that does.
It’s not cool to not take care of yourself – there’s no shame in cooking (albeit poorly) a big meal for yourself or staying in when the Fresher’s flu is kicking your butt. There is no shame in admitting you’re struggling and reaching out for help. It’ll take you a while to realise it, but don’t worry you’ll get there in the end.
I wish I could reach through the years and give you a massive hug, tell you that everything will be alright and that you will get everything you wanted and more out of the university experience. We got to the end, and we even managed to get onto a master’s course in the process. I love you with my whole heart, now go do your washing up.
Yours forever and always,
Graduate Charlotte