We’ve all gone down the journey of watching videos titled ‘What to expect in university’ or ‘What you must know before you live in student halls’ filled with preconceptions about what a student’s lifestyle is like. Whether it’s advice on how to navigate living with others or tips for getting through exam season they can create a sense of worry when in reality most videos are dramatized in order to gain attention. But do not fret as this article is dedicated to debunking typical student myths.
‘All-nighters guarantee better grades’
There seems to be a consensus among university students that camping out in the library around exam season is the key to success and high grades. This however is not only completely untrue but also considered an unhealthy habit. This is of course not to say that I may self-have not fallen victim to last minute revision and taking my dinner to go in favour of library sessions however it is not sustainable. The importance of a regular sleep pattern is often forgotten however I have found that it is the key factor of ensuring my day is productive. In terms of revision, I find it so much easier to stay on top of lecture and tutorial work so that when exams do come around, I am not struggling to teach myself content. There are many revision techniques available online and it is all about finding the best fit for you! I, myself, like to schedule days targeting certain modules whilst creating checklists to keep track of how far into revision I am.
‘First-class students have no social life’
Work-life balance is often a hot topic for university students, and it appears that people believe those achieving the highest grades are not those partying on the weekend. I believe that being able to maintain a social life alongside work is crucial for experiencing everything that university has to offer. I find that a personalised timetable of tasks helps me to keep on top of work in which I can go out with friends without feeling guilty. Additionally, for those anxious about joining a society in fear that it will interfere with university work it is worth noting that most societies operate around academic life and therefore will not overlap with your studies.
‘Year one doesn’t matter’.
This common saying is repeated to you almost a million times during your first year of university (often used as motivation to go clubbing) however the first year is actually the perfect time to navigate the change. It’s a prime opportunity to not only learn what the courses have to offer but also more importantly adapt to the way in which university teaching is set up. Become familiar with Blackboard, become confident with tutors and lectures (making you feel more comfortable in the future when you may need to ask a question), take the opportunity to attend as many society open sessions as you can to find something you potentially enjoy doing outside of work, become familiar with the city whether this is how transport operates or even advancing in getting a part-time job.
‘Your career must reflect your degree’.
As we know a large number of students choose their university degree based on either level of enjoyment or previous experience as there are many university students who are still trying to figure out the path they wish to choose after graduating (me being one of them!). I completely understand and relate to the stresses of what you are currently studying may not directly reflect the specific field you aspire to work in, however do not let this worry consume you! There are many ways you can enter the workforce after university as well as programmes that enable you to gain some experience in a field of your interest. Whilst university can feel all-consuming whilst you are in it, I believe it is equally important to understand that it is not the be all and end all of your career life.
‘Do not commit flatcest!’
This extremely popular trope is targeted to university students of all ages but particularly those in first year as basically anyone will be able to tell you what flatcest is, a story of it gone wrong or even those that ignored the warnings and created a sustainable relationship. Whilst we all enjoy the fun surrounding it, I feel as though university is a time for some where relationships feel a bit more mature and important and whilst you may not want to create awkward tension within your living space it is also completely acceptable to take time to explore different dynamic –> this is for some one of the only times sharing space with this many people will happen! Limiting relationships because of a university phrase is more than likely not the easiest way to handle relationships.
‘It’s the best years of your life’
Okay I know this sounds like an extremely depressing outlook on university however I more so wish to spread the understanding that going through difficult times is completely normal. It is okay if you are not having fun 24/7 as this is practically impossible! Whilst I would encourage everyone to try and have as much fun as possible, try as many new things as you can, talk to everyone I also recognise the ups and downs that come alongside studying at university. Just know that everyone around you may seem perfectly fine but struggles of homesickness, burnout, anxiety and loneliness impact everyone meaning that you are not alone!
University life is diverse and each student weaves into their own unique pattern. If you are truly worried about any of the myths mentioned above, then I hope you have come to the recognition that university is truly not scripted! It is absolutely acceptable to study in ways that suit you, party all weekend if it’s something you enjoy, form relationships with whoever you deem suitable and most importantly succeed in your own way.