If I could talk to my Year 13 self, what would I say?

Hi, I'm Jubeda. I'm in my second year of BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering.

There are many things my Year 13 self didn't know. If I could talk to my Year 13 self, I would say a lot of things. I'd talk about the lessons I've learned, the steps I've taken and everything in between. Today, I will share those things with you.

I'm worried about my future...

Worrying about the future is completely normal and understandable. Whether you're in Year 13 or college, now is a good time to think about your future.

Even though it can be a daunting time, the best thing you can do is research. Look at courses that interest you, explore topics you want to study, and don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers at once.

During Years 12 and 13, I took the time to go to university open days and get a feel for the campus and courses up close. It was great getting to visit different universities. Looking back, I wish I hadn't panicked as much, and taken the time to take things slowly, and focus on my upcoming exams.

How will I make friends?

Making friends was the part I was dreading the most. I'd made friends during my time at school, and I knew not all my friends were going to the same university as me. I suddenly realised that I didn't know how to make new friends.

In hindsight, I was worried for nothing! I learned the best way to make friends on campus is by trying out different societies and joining the ones you enjoy. Doing it this way meant I was able to meet new people and make friends with others who had the same interests.

How will I know how to be an adult?

When I was still in Year 13, thinking about living independently away from home felt too far away to think about.

I do wish I had taken the time to learn a few more skills, such as navigating a new place, keeping my living space tidy, and most importantly, how to cook! At least knowing the very basic stuff would have meant I wasn't stuck eating nothing but packaged food for the first two months.

What will my life at uni be like?

The final piece of advice I would impart to my younger self is that university is a place where you have to put yourself out there. It's a great time to participate in societies and take part in extra-curricular activities.

Not only will this enhance your uni life, but it will also help you gain professional skills. You'll build strong connections, and it's always nice to have your own little community wherever you go in life.

Be open to new experiences. Go on that hike with a group of people. Play go-karts competitively. This is a time of your life you should enjoy without any inhibition.

Opportunity's calling. You coming?

Get stuck in.

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