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Anxious about starting uni?

I feel really anxious that am starting uni, any advice on how to calm myself I always keep worrying about it constantly.

Reply 1

EmCharles

What in particular are you worried about?

Reply 2

SMEGGGY

All of them will be anxious no doubt so you're all in the same boat. Worry not

Reply 3

Anonymous #1

Original post by EmCharles

What in particular are you worried about?

I have adhd and worried i won't fit in at uni, plus I'm 21

Reply 4

University of East Anglia

Official Rep

Original post by Anonymous

I feel really anxious that am starting uni, any advice on how to calm myself I always keep worrying about it constantly.

Hi,

Don't worry! :smile:

All new students are in the same boat,
There's some great tips on this page for new starters: https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/university/life/

If you wanted to speak to some of our current students for advice on anything from courses to accommodation and general student life,
they're available on https://askastudent.uea.ac.uk/.

Let us know if we can help in anyway,

Anna

Reply 5

EmCharles

Original post by Anonymous

I have adhd and worried i won't fit in at uni, plus I'm 21

Well I'll be turning 20 soon after freshers, so it's not like you are gonna be the only slightly older person there. Even if you are the oldest, it doesnt matter, you just have more life experience to share.
Universities have welfare teams dedicated to caring for you, so talk to them before you go and set yourself up a support network if you think you'll need it.
Unis are bigger than schools, so finding friends should be easier. Everyone will be new, and you will eventually find a group to fit into.
As for the ADHD, I think it shouldn't be a problem for the people you'd want in your life.
Have you talked to those around you about your worries? It might help...
Best of luck =)

Reply 6

Anonymous #1

Original post by EmCharles

Yeah i’ve talked to my mom about it, I just worry all the time about things. I’m just worried more about change...

Reply 7

EmCharles

That's normal. It's a huge change, and it's not going to be instantly amazing. You probably will feel homesick and sad. But it will get better!
All of my cousins, brother and friends have gone through a tough stage, but ultimately they all love where they are now.
Honestly I've gone back onto my antidepressants to help me deal with the changes. Just until I've settled into it....

Reply 8

She-Ra

Universities Forum Helper

@Edge Hill University @University of Brighton Enquiries what are your tips as students to help ease starter nerves?

Original post by Anonymous

I feel really anxious that am starting uni, any advice on how to calm myself I always keep worrying about it constantly.

It's so natural to be nervous. This is a really big deal and a change. And do you know what, everyone gets a little bit anxious about the unknown :frown:

Are you moving into uni accommodation? Some have facebook groups which means you can start to meet people online before you move in :h:

Reply 9

username4882260

Original post by She-Ra

@Edge Hill University @University of Brighton Enquiries what are your tips as students to help ease starter nerves?

It's so natural to be nervous. This is a really big deal and a change. And do you know what, everyone gets a little bit anxious about the unknown :frown:

Are you moving into uni accommodation? Some have facebook groups which means you can start to meet people online before you move in :h:

No, well I currently live with my girlfriend so won’t be movIng into halls or anything. I’m just anxious about it all especially with my adhd etc.

Reply 10

BU Students

I would advise you to get in touch with the support team at your uni as they may be able to help you settle in to uni and ensure you apply for anything you may be eligible for e.g. bursaries and additional learning support. Bournemouth University offers this advice and support surrounding anxiety and stress.

One of our students from 2017 also created a blog about managing her anxiety, maybe you could give this a read and search your university for similar vlogs/blogs?

Although you may face particular challenges you certainly won't be alone, everyone will be feeling really apprehensive. Try to get involved as much as you can but do look into the support services too.

Good luck

Vicki

Reply 11

University of Brighton Enquiries

Official Rep

Original post by Anonymous

I feel really anxious that am starting uni, any advice on how to calm myself I always keep worrying about it constantly.

As others have already said, it's totally normal to feel nervous! It's a big change with lots of excitement and new experiences. Everyone is in the same boat and is just trying to find their feet the first few weeks (and months!). Don't put too much pressure on yourself, it's a lot to take in in a short space of time. Check out this video from some of our students about what student life is like at the University of Brighton

Good luck at university!
Emma
University of Brighton rep :nyan:

Reply 12

Edge Hill University

Official Rep

Original post by Anonymous

I feel really anxious that am starting uni, any advice on how to calm myself I always keep worrying about it constantly.

Hi there,

The first thing to mention is that even if they don't show it, everyone else is nervous too. It's a whole new place, a whole new situation, and a big step in your life, so anxiety is normal.

You mentioned that you were worried because you're 21. We've got a range of students from 18 to their 60's, many who have told us how much they love university and how well they fit in. There's plenty of opportunities to meet new people, including societies, regular events, and specialist facilities such as The Sports Centre and The Arts Centre. Also, in a way, being slightly older is an advantage - you'll have experiences that people who went straight from college/sixth form to uni don't.

As Bournemouth mentioned, universities have support teams to help you. If your ADHD will impact your university experience in any way, they can offer plenty of assistance to make your time here much more manageable.

I hope you're feeling a little more reassured. Don't worry if that's not the case though - nerves are completely normal!

Alex