More Than a Degree: Inside the Culture of Modern University Life

Going to university is a scary thing but it is normalised in the UK as progressive route from college instead of getting a job straight away. 

You move away and are left to your own devices only knowing what you have seen in American movies, am I right?

University culture involves a lot of things. One being alcohol. Two being community. Three, getting the grades. 

Starting off with alcohol. It is very common for students to go out partying or clubbing. Going on nights out for 4 days out of 7 and that could be more is the norm. But there is pressure with that. And as budding 18 year olds we don't know our relationship with alcohol. Are we a crier, more confident or confrontational? You may be learning in your classrooms but the real learning happens outside the lecture hall. Navigating whether this lifestyle is for you can make people please. You won't make friends if you don't go out socialising whilst drinking. I can happily say this isn't the case. Yes I had my fair share of night outs but only learnt my anxiety heightened the next day the most. Alcohol was my way of trying to fit in. There are so many ways to make connections that don't involve a drink, I can assure you. Some find they love to drink and love the party life which I love for them. But for myself it wasn't something I wanted to carry on into my last few years at university. This is a reminder that the university culture and norms don't have to be for you. 

Next up is the university community. Making friends and meeting new people. For some of us we move to a new city where no one knows us and isn't that a huge flex? You can be whoever you want to be. It is so important to find your people. But with that comes pressure. Living with housemates that may not be your cup of tea or on your course can be lonely. I have felt like this before but can promise it will get better if you do one thing. Try to put yourself out there just a little. I know this is difficult but if I didn't just meet up with those neighbours or course mates I would never have had the best memories I took home with me at the end. Remember you all have one thing in common whether it is on your course, society or in your flat. They are alone too and doing this for the first time too. 

Now, in the first year you think you don't care about the grades. It's partying and eating noodles 5 days a week. Trying to get through. It is also important to know why you were there in the first place. Not only to learn but to push yourself. Making sure you are doing the work and making it a priority because in the long run you will need it. I have always looked back on if I did the most and I think I did. I got the grade I wanted but I know some didn't either. Learning from them it reminded myself that having balance is important. Knowing when to say no and have it all as much as it may not feel it.