Feeling both anxious and enthused upon entering UCD was certainly a mixed feeling. Luckily, there were early campus tours and guidance from peer mentors to ease the transition. These peer mentors, who are usually slightly older students, are a tremendous resource: they are knowledgeable about all the vital info and hacks; from the prime library spots to understanding the campus dynamics, and they know where to seek help if required.
Such was my appreciation for their assistance that I opted to serve in that capacity myself, which was incredibly rewarding.
At present, I am in my last academic year, undertaking a BSc in politics, philosophy, and economics (PPE), an area of study I am very fond of and believe to be highly suited to.
The journey began alongside my best mate, Finn, however, through the peer mentors’ early introduction to the cohort, my circle of friends grew rapidly. In the first year, I focussed more on academics than in joining clubs and societies, but I was regularly partaking in class nights and events.
As my university journey progressed, I ventured to join the snow sports society and embarked on a grand ski adventure in France. My accommodation housed me and three friends, with room for a fifth occupant, a stranger to us; he was a freshman and we were juniors. As it happened, he set out on this adventure solo but we spent most of our time together and he quickly transitioned from a stranger to a good buddy, even popping in to see us during our overseas semester.
The idea of embarking on a significant excursion without any familiar faces can be daunting, but the clubs and societies are there to quell such fears. If joining a society is daunting because you’re not acquainted with any members, take the plunge. You’ll find they’re enthusiastic and hospitable and you’ll inevitably blend and mingle.
I’m fortunate to reside with my family and have parents who support me unconditionally. Nevertheless, for my summer voyages and my semester spent in a Dutch city called Groningen, I did save money through work. I made many wonderful acquaintances during that time. Being a flatmate, I picked up a wealth of knowledge on collaboration, self-care, and domestic management.
Do not fear university life. It’s vastly different from school where the student count for a year might only reach 100 or 150; universities host thousands of students.
Here’s my tip for you: step in confidently with a grin on your face, remain genuine and be enthusiastic about making new acquaintances. If you follow this, you shall face no difficulties.