About LifeOfaUniversityGirl

Welcome to LifeOfaUniversityGirl, a real, messy, and relatable blog chronicling the experiences of an 18-year-old first-year university student. Navigating the first stages of adulthood and living her life, this blog offers an authentic glimpse into the ups and downs of university life in the UK. Discover how we're building a community around shared experiences and genuine insights.

Your burning questions, answered

University life can be a whirlwind, and I know firsthand how challenging it can be. When I started university, especially as a commuter, settling in felt incredibly difficult. That struggle sparked the idea for LifeOfaUniversityGirl – a place where we can openly discuss these experiences. Here, I've gathered the questions friends and other students always ask, along with the honest advice I wish I had.

How do I cope with making friends at university?

It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed when it comes to making new friends. My top advice is simple: talk to people! Strike up conversations in lectures, join university societies that match your interests, or even just be open to chatting in your common areas. Getting involved is key – the more you put yourself out there, the more opportunities you'll have to connect with like-minded individuals. Find a hobby, whether it's a sports club, a book group, or a volunteering opportunity; it's a fantastic way to meet people outside of your academic bubble.

How do I keep on top of my work and social life, as well as work?

Balancing university work, a social life, and potentially a part-time job can feel impossible, but it’s all about finding your rhythm. Prioritise your tasks: use a planner or digital calendar to schedule study times, social events, and work shifts. Be realistic about what you can achieve and don't be afraid to say no to social invites if you need to focus on academics. Remember, your studies are why you're there, but a healthy social life and some downtime are crucial for your wellbeing. Experiment with different routines until you find what works best for you.

What's it like navigating adulthood at 18?

Navigating adulthood at 18 is a messy, exciting, and sometimes terrifying journey! It's about learning to be independent, making your own decisions, managing your finances (often for the first time), and figuring out who you are outside of your home environment. There will be mistakes, triumphs, and plenty of learning curves. The most important thing is to be kind to yourself, embrace the challenges, and remember that everyone else is figuring it out too. It's a continuous process, and this blog is all about sharing those real, relatable experiences.

Is there anything interesting or important you'd like readers to know about your blog or why you started it?

Absolutely! My blog, LifeOfaUniversityGirl, was born out of my own struggles. When I first started university, especially as a commuter student, I really struggled with settling in and finding my feet. I felt isolated and overwhelmed, and I wished there was a resource that spoke to the real, unglamorous side of this transition. That's why I created this space – to be honest, relatable, and to share the unfiltered truth about first-year university life and stepping into adulthood. It’s for anyone who feels a bit lost, a bit messy, and wants to know they're not alone.