Abbie McCarrick is a final year MPhys Theoretical Physics student. Here, Abbie looks back at her time at the University and thinks about what she would tell her first-year self. Thanks for sharing, Abbie.
Dear First Year Me,
I know you’re excited and nervous – but I’m here to reassure you – everything will be fine!
I know you’re worried about living at home instead of in halls, but honestly, it doesn’t matter one bit – you’ll make the greatest of friends soon and they help you through the whole of university.
First year was tough, so don’t think it will be an easy ride. You’re in a new situation. A new environment. And you’re surrounded by so many different people. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed.
As you progress through uni, you’ll have some hard decisions to make, related to your course, your relationships and even your living situation, but always remember what Mum used to say: “Whatever decision you end up making, it will always be the right one for you.” Follow your heart, and do what you enjoy. You’ll get there in the end.
You’re going to face a few obstacles on your way, and you might think you can’t shift them, but I’m here to tell you can overcome them and you will. Don’t give up, and always keep fighting. University is going to be the first time you fail at something and that’s okay. There’s always a solution, and it can always be fixed.
You’ll also be faced with so many opportunities. Some of them will change your life, and pave the way for even more opportunities and are a catalyst to where we are today, so grab them with both hands and don’t be scared.
I know at times it feels easy to give up, and resign yourself to thinking you can’t do it.
Well, I’m here to say you can do it, and in fact you do do it. We graduate soon. I won’t spoil it for you, but we also have a pretty good “next step” lined up too.
Uni will be a rollercoaster, ups and downs, twists and turns, but try to enjoy it as much as you can – we’re only doing this once.
Lots of love,
Final Year Me
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