I’m Ollie, I’m 23 and I graduated from BU in November 2019. I started university in September 2015, having never lived away from home, I came straight from A-Levels to a brand-new town where I only knew one person. It was a bold move, and I am sure many of you reading this will be in a similar position. So, here is my advice to my Freshers self, five years on…

  1. Say yes to as many opportunities as you can. Reflecting now, I am so glad that I put myself out of my comfort zone and said ‘yes’ as much as I could. Whether it be new social groups, joining clubs and societies, finding part time work, following spontaneous plans – I often found they made for lasting memories!
  2. The first few months of uni is one of the most exciting periods of your life. There will be tremendous highs (meeting new friends, learning new things, seeing new places) and there may well be some trickier times (like feeling homesick or assignment pressures). Remember, it is healthy and necessary to look after yourself! Call home to chat to friends and family, visit the beach at sunset and make sure you have a good circle around you to help balance everything out.
  3. Get involved with SUBU and the internal opportunities at BU. There are so many exciting ways of learning, meeting people and networking. From clubs and societies to part-time work, there are countless chances to get involved with the uni and union that can make for a fantastic social life, extra cash and helping develop skills.

Most importantly, remember to have fun, look after yourself and meet as many people as you can. University provided me with friends for life, skills for a great career and the personal development to take on whatever life may throw my way!