Uncommon University Tips

University is an experience like no other. I know I’m not the only that has watched countless YouTube videos about realities and expectations, room tours and everything in between. And even though that information is important and needed to be heard, not all topics are covered.  Out of the subjects that seem less common to be discussed, these are the top university tips are often missed out.

Wear whatever you want

 

University is often the first-place people feel like the can express their individuality, whether it is through their room décor or subject choice. I regularly hear people online saying statements such as ‘don’t ring heels to uni’ but why not? If you want to wear something, wear it. Yes, university life in general isn’t the most glamorous and it is socially acceptable to wear vans or air force ones with dresses but if that’s not you, that’s totally fine. Want to wear moonboots to your lectures? Stilettos to brunch? You do you. Going back to the heels example, wearing them boosts my confidence drastically and so far, I’ve managed not to break either of my legs so why should I sop wearing them just because they are not the number one shoe choice? I assure you that whether you study in comfy loungewear or a blazer and skirt two piece, everyone is too busy with their own business to mind or judge. 

 

Can’t find a society you like? Start your own

 

Granted this will be a lot easier for students that aren’t freshers, but don’t be discouraged. Societies really are a brilliant way of meeting new people, whether you’re living in student accommodation or commuting. It’s so helpful to meet new people who share the same interest as you. I have just finished my first year of university in which I was briefly in two different societies which gave me the opportunity to meet a lot more people than if I would not have branched out. However, my ideal society would be revolved around fashion and my university currently doesn’t offer that, so I applied to start it from scratch myself. Fingers crossed, everything will be approved, and I will be able to create a fashion network within the campus where I study and live. And even if it doesn’t work out, I’m granted to meet at least a few new friends on this journey. Just because something doesn’t exist does not mean it cannot be done.

 

Don't be afraid to try things out by yourself

Probably the first university tip anyone will give you is to join societies. And rightly so, it's one of the easiest ways to meet new people and even if you don't become the besets of friends, at least you now have more familiar faces around campus. But if there is an event or society you're interested in and you don't know anyone else who fancies it, go by yourself! Seems daring indeed, but I assure you that you won't be the only one in this situation. 

Set up a Depop account

 

Bargains aside, you can earn yourself. Of course, you can list day to day clothes but don’t forget fancy dress costumes from socials. Chances are that at some point you are going to need some groovy or spooky outfit that you may never need again, so pop it on Depop and help out a student who is in need of one just like it. You’d be surprised how many outfits from previous socials can be found on the preloved market. Likewise, if you’re after one yourself, it’s worth checking Depop before Amazon.

Of course with Covid-19 glooming over us, university life will now probably look different to how it used to, but that doesn't mean it has to mean any less. Enjoy a photo from one of my favourite evenings out with my best friend.

K x