Nerves before starting
Obviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
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Reply 1
I know you'll do great at uni either way 😉 but do whatever you feel comfortable with. For example, you could try moving out and if it's too much you could just commute. Best of luck!
Reply 2
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hi
University is definitely a very daunting and nerve-wracking experience for many students so don't feel alone in this. I know I felt nervous initially to be moving in with a group of 8 students I didn't know, although this feeling didn't last for long as my uni put on lots of events and ways to meet new people with similar interests. Freshers week is a great way to meet new people in different environments, so try and get involved in anything that interests you to meet like-minded people.
Although if commuting makes you feel more at ease, you will still have opportunities to meet new people and make friends, if moving in feels too full-on. My advise would be to make the decision alone, because only you can understand how you will feel in this situation but don't be afraid to try things you have never done before, because you might surprise yourself!
Hope this helps!
Katie (Lancaster University Student Ambassador)
Reply 3
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hello!
Firstly, I’m sorry you are feeling so nervous but please remember this is a huge change and nerves are expected in this situation.
My advice would be to
1.
Make sure you have sentimental items, such as pictures, to decorate your uni room with. This will help it feel more like your room when you move in.
2.
Find the things you are excited about, make a list that you can look over anytime you feel nervous. This could include societies, a module on your course, doing your own shopping etc.
3.
Remember that you are always able to visit home or become a commuting student. Although I believe you should give university life a good try, you do always have these options - a weekend at home can do wonders.
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
It might be a bit of an extreme reaction but it's normal to have mixed, strong feelings on moving out - it's a huge change in your life. I would recommend moving out anyway at least for a year because it's a nice experience to have, one step forwards to growing up. I presume that you'll be able to easily visit your home often so that'll be nice if you're ever feeling home-sick
Reply 5
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hello, moving to university is a big step and a change in your life. It is completely understandable that it is bringing up feelings of worry and uncertainty. You won't be alone in feeling that way, in facts lots of students (including myself when I was a student) feel the same right now.
We have lots of helpful tips made with students and clinicians to help you prepare for uni and your next steps including these:
Hope this helps and good luck for September - we know you'll be just fine. Even if it feels super scary right now - Grace
Reply 6
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hi Anon,
Really sorry to hear you're feeling this way ☹️ . This uncertainty and facing such a big life decision is faced by a lot of students so you're not alone with how you feel. I hope knowing you're not the only person going through this may bring you a little comfort?
Like I mentioned before it is a big decision for your life, your personal growth as well as a massive financial implication.
I hope I'm able to offer a bit of personal advice and then some more impartial.
Long story short, I was from Leeds, and chose to study at Huddersfield and live at uni. I was a 20min journey from home so was always close to go home, but I rarely went home apart from Xmas and summer breaks. I truly loved living on my own, having my own independence and responsibilities. It taught me invaluable life skills like cooking, cleaning, budgeting and I made friends for life through my first year flatmates. I also then found I struggled adapting to home life when I would get home- I had to adapt how I lived to fit the lifestyle of my parents and family at home- I would eat at the times they chose, I would feel guilt staying up late/going and potentially making any noise knowing my family had work and I didn't over the summer. Whereas at Uni, I wanted to go out and grab food at any time of the night? My flatmates and I would regularly go for a midnight McFlurry run, we'd hang out until early hours of the morning. I was much happier with being able to make decisions entirely for myself.
But i realise that when I studied 2013-2017 the maintenance loan went much further and I could afford rent within that amount, whereas now the money doesn't go as far and often accommodation cost is more than the loan itself. If you feel you want to try living away for your first year do it, and then if it isn't for you, then you can live at home for the remainder of your studies. But i'd definitely recommend doing so in your first year, it opens you up to make friends outside of your course, you can spend time really building life experience and skills during a year of your degree where it doesn't count towards your degree (so long as you pass the year). My grades in first year were far lower than second and final (I still graduated with a first) but I found first year where perhaps my grades weren't as strong, I learned so much more about myself and built so many more life skills. I could definitely see myself being more sheltered and far less independent had I not moved out.
I hope this helps and wish you the best of luck for results day tomorrow!
Lewis
Social media and content officer, Huddersfield
Reply 7
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hiya,
I’m sorry to hear that you’re feeling so worried. These nerves are completely normal! First thing I’d suggest is talking to your friends and family. I know you mentioned you can’t as you just start crying, but it’s absolutely fine for you to cry about it. You might find that you feel relieved after talking about your worries and letting it all out!
University is daunting and moving away from home for the first time is also very daunting, so your feelings are completely understandable. If you don’t feel like you’re ready to move out just yet, then commuting to uni is fine too. You won’t miss out on anything!
However, if you do want to do both then go for it. Remember nothing is set in stone and if during your first year you decide that you’d rather commute, then you can move back home and that’s absolutely fine.
It’s easy to focus on the negatives when we’re worried and then it can all feel overwhelming. When I get into these worry ruts I try to start thinking about all the positives. This normally makes the things I’m worrying about seem more manageable.
I’m sure once you’re at uni you’ll have a great time!
I hope this helps and good luck 🙂
Sophie (ARU)
Reply 8
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hello 👋
It's totally normal to feel nervous - I remember the summer before I moved to university I was a mixture of emotions!
One thing one of my friends did was live at home in first year, then he found that he wanted to be closer to campus and cut down on his commuting so he moved into halls in second year, so there's always options if you think you might want to commute or change your mind. Find what's right for you over time.
I'd also say as well one thing that helped me when I moved was making sure I had some of my favourite things from home, even little things like my favourite mug, and photos for my room, to make it feel more homely. I also regularly called my family and facetimed even when I was cooking so I never felt too far from them.
Going to university is an exciting but anxious time - but I hope you do enjoy it
Jennie
Reply 9
22
Joining groups etc would be a great idea. When I started with the Student Union sometime into University Life, it made things so much better as you become part of a network
Reply 10
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hey,
I'm sorry your feeling this way about moving to university. However, it is extremely normal to feel this way I know before I moved I was really and scared for what the next three years held for me.
Some tips that I found worked for me or believe would have worked for me are:
•
See if you can join any Facebook groups relating to your university for Edge Hill there is are two one for general freshers and one for people living in accommodation.
•
These are a great way of being able to chat to some people and allow for you to have some familiar faces ahead of starting.
•
I would recommend if possible trying to meet your flatmates as this could be a good way of removing stress and allow for a bit of small talk to happen ahead of moving in.
•
Or even try and plan to have a takeaway the first as this can be a great way of getting to know your flatmates.
•
Try and see if you know of any friends or family who have been to university and their experience of this.
•
Bring sentimental items when you move away such as photos of you with your family and friends and maybe any other things that mean a lot to you or could you make you feel happy.
•
Just remember that the first couple of days will feel strange but you will soon get stuck into the way of life at uni.
I would recommend trying out moving away and staying at university for maybe a semester or so to allow yourself to try and settle in however if it doesn't seem like something for you, you could definitely commute instead.
Good luck and I hope all goes well! 🙂
Rebecca
Recent Geoenviromental Hazards Graduate
Reply 11
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
SO normal! Everyone is in the same boat but honestly, you're not alone.
It's completely natural to feel nervous about starting university. This is a big step, and with any new experience, it's normal to have some anxiety. But remember, you're not alone in this. Many others are feeling the same way, and those initial nerves will likely turn into excitement once you settle in.
University is a place full of opportunities, new friendships, and experiences that will help you grow. It's okay to take things one step at a time. Don’t put pressure on yourself to have it all figured out right away. It's perfectly fine to ask for help, lean on new friends, and explore at your own pace.
Remember why you're there—your passion, your goals, and your dreams. You're capable, and you've worked hard to get here. Embrace the adventure ahead, and trust that you'll find your rhythm. You’ve got this
Reply 12
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hi there,
I'm sorry to hear you are feeling this way. It is totally normal to be having these feelings, as moving away to university is a big and daunting step to take!
I was very nervous to move to university. It's an extremely busy, confusing, and stressful time, so just remember that so many people feel the same way! One thing that helped me was to make sure I had a detailed checklist of things to pack and bring, and I also had a list of things to do before I left in September. Aside from making sure you have everything you need, this serves as a good distraction from overthinking and allows you to really get excited for what is to come!
Nerves are totally normal - I felt this way too! However, once I actually arrived and started to get involved with things and meet new people, I became more and more comfortable at my university. The summer leading up to university can make things so daunting, but please try not to overthink things. I have no doubt that you'll do great, you just need to have faith and give it a try!
It is also important to remember that whatever decision you make, it is not permanent. You are allowed to change your mind! You could always try out the accommodation, and if you decide it isn't for you, you can become a commuting student. If university is close enough to become a commuting student, you can also visit home while living in accommodation - remember this too! There is also a dedicated wellbeing and support network at university who would be more than happy to help you through anything you are worried about.
I hope this helps and best of luck,
Isabella 🙂
Geography with a Year Abroad Student
(edited 1 year ago)
Reply 13
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hi there!
Feeling emotional about moving out and starting university is completely understandable and is a feeling many if not all will experience. When I started university 4 years ago, I was so shy and nervous about meeting new flat mates etc but now have made friends for life! It’s not as bad as it may seem! 😊
I wouldn’t worry too much and just enjoy it whilst you can, especially your first year. Experiment, do new things and meet new people. I would say that it is worth a shot at living on campus and then if it isn’t for you, then having the option to commute is great. Do what you think is right and the best option for you, as you know yourself best.
Freshers/welcome week is a great way to easily settle in and get to know your flat/classmates. There is something for everyone, so make the most of it.
I would also recommend some pictures or sentimental items to remind you of family and comfort you! I am sorry you are feeling so nervous, but everything will turn out the way it is supposed to! I’m sure you will make the right decision for you and have a great experience at uni!
Hope this helps 😊
Jakub - Fashion promotion and marketing graduate.
Reply 14
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hi there,
Nerves are completely normal before you start university - it's a completely different experience than anything you will have done before so try not to worry too much.
One thing to remember is that so many people will be feeling like this too. It's a new experience for everyone and there will be so many people who are nervous and anxious about starting uni so you are not alone in feeling this way. Try to remember this when you are feeling worried!
I would try and make sure you do talk about it with your family and friends as they may not know how you are feeling and they will probably be good to talk to about it as they can offer you some good advice on the situation. With commuting, it is a decision that only you can make really. If I was in your position, I would probably try living in halls as you never know you might really enjoy it when you are there. Lots of people are nervous before they start but they end up meeting lots of people in halls and really enjoy it so I would think it is worth a try. However, you are the only now who truly knows how you are feeling and if this is a good idea for you so if you really don't want to live in halls, you could commute. Lots of people commute and you can still join in and make lots of friends so if you feel this is the best thing for you to do, don't be afraid to do it as you will still make friends.
If you do decide to live in uni accommodation, make sure you bring things from home to make your room feel more homely. Bring pictures of friends and family, bring cushions, blankets, lights etc to make your room feel more homely. This will really help as it makes the room feel like yours rather than just a room that anyone could be living in. Try and unpack as soon as you can too as having boxes around will not help you feeling homesick.
I would also make sure you keep in contact with your friends and family from home. Call, FaceTime, text them and keep them updated on how you are getting on and how they are doing. You don't want to spend all your time talking to them but it can really help to know that they are just a phone call away if you need them. Try not to go home straight away as this can make your homesickness worse sometimes, but also don't be afraid to go home if you really feel you need it as for some people it can help a lot and they feel better at uni after a weekend at home.
If you are struggling at all, make sure you talk to your university wellbeing team as they will be there for you if you are struggling at all. It's good to talk to them if you need it rather than bottling it up and they will be used to people talking to them about things like this so it won't just be you. Keep in touch with them as it can really help and that's what they are there for.
I hope some of this helps and good luck at university,
Lucy -SHU student ambassador.
Reply 15
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hi there,
Firstly, it's absolutely fine and valid to feel like this. I went to university over 10 years ago and I can still remember how I felt in the days up to moving in day. I cried a lot, too, but I let myself cry and get my feelings off my chest to people I loved and who I knew would listen.
Going to university is a huge step and brings about changes in your life, so it's normal to feel nervous. What I used to think is that everyone is going to be in the same boat, so use those people you meet in your accommodation, on moving in day and on your course as your lifejacket. Strength is better in numbers and almost everyone will be feeling the same over the coming weeks.
In regard to commuting, have a think about if it's logistically doable. Look at how much it will cost you to travel to university each week, will you feel like you can't attend certain socials or events because it's too far to travel or you'll get home late? If you know you'll feel more at ease staying at home and commuting, you'll still meet loads of people and forge friendships while you're studying! I commuted to university and I'm still good friends with one of the people on my course.
Whatever you decide, which must be the best option for you, good luck and I hope you enjoy the university experience!
Eleanor
Reply 16
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hi 👋
This is completely normal! - for the majority of students coming to university for the first time, it is their first time moving away from home and having to live by themselves.
I would talk to close friends and family and try to tell them how you are feeling as they will be able to best support you .
I hope this helps,
Matt
Wrexham Uni Reps
Reply 17
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
I went to Uni 6 years ago, so I've been there. I lived away from home and I'm so glad I did. It gave me a chance to be independent. Something needed when doing Uni work after something you need after Uni for sure. I had a terrible first month away from home, getting used to a new environment and i had flat mates that only socialised during nights out, so was only during the day. It did help once i had more uni work to keep me busy but once I made friends on my course I was much better.
join a society, and make friends, this is the key. I promise you will be OK!
Reply 18
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hi, Anonymous #1
I'm really sorry to hear that you are feeling nervous and are a bit upset about the thought of moving into university accommodation. But as you said, feeling nervous is completely normal and there will be lots of other students feeling this way too!
To help you a little bit more, what course are you going to be studying?🎓️ Which university are you going to?
As a student who lives at home and commutes to university, but has friends who are international and live in accommodation, I can provide an insight into both.
I felt that living at home was the best option for me as I wasn't quite ready to move away from home, and found a course that I really liked within commuting distance. I have also found that being around family has helped me during my time at university as I am quite close with my parents, grandparents, and brother, and this was a huge support network for me.
However, with that being said, it's important to consider the social aspects of living away at university! Living in accommodation provides lots of opportunities to socialise and make friends, get involved with societies, and have a bit of independence too! Not that this cannot happen if you live at home, as I have made lots of friends from my course, and have made lots of friends through being involved in societies, but this is just something to think about.
It's always good to make a pros and cons list when deciding to move into accommodation or commute. Here are some points to start you off:
Some points to bear in mind if you are thinking about commuting:
•
Commuting distances
•
Costs of commuting
•
Reliability of the transport you are using e.g. trains, buses.
•
Pros and cons of living at home
Some advice that my friends who live in campus accommodation have given me:
•
Starting university and moving into accommodation is daunting, but you're not alone because I felt this way too!
•
Get involved with activities during freshers week and check out all of the societies because there really is something for everyone! You can always go to freshers events with your flatmates or anyone else you meet there on the day!
•
Make sure to pack your favourite sentimental items which remind you of home, your pets, your friends or family.
•
Write a list of things you are looking forward to, and write a list of essentials that you may need to buy to bring to university e.g. books, stationary, toiletries, cutlery, plates, cooking pans, because I found this exciting to go out and shop for.
•
You can sometimes find your flatmates or coursemates through online chats and forums, and chat to them before you even move in and start university.
•
Make sure you stay in touch with friends and family, and plan video chats with them to boost you up when you might be missing home.
I hope some of these points and experiences will help you to see that there is lots to be excited about when starting university. University has been such an exciting experience for me where i've met lots of friends for life! And I'm sure that whichever route you take (moving in or commuting from home) that you will love your experience too! 😃
My advice would be to make a pros and cons list for both options and go with your gut feeling! You can always do this with a friend or family member, and let them know of any worries you have.
Just remember that either way, you could move into accommodation or move back home for your second or third year if you feel that it's not working for you, and there's always friendly university support teams to talk to if you ever feel like you're struggling or need some help/advice.
I hope this has been helpful! Please do reply if you have any other worries or questions.
I wish you the best of luck with university and wish you an exciting start to your new chapter at uni! 😊
Josie
University of Kent Student Rep🎓️
Reply 19
Original post
by AnonymousObviously September start date is fast approaching and I’m getting really really nervous now. I know nerves are normal, but the thought of moving out of home and moving into uni makes me feel sick. Like I can’t talk about it with people because I just cry. Is this normal? Is anyone else feeling like this or should I commute to Uni instead (which I can do)?
Hi, I did a degree and then a masters and I now both teach and work in student services
I was very nervous when I went to University, I remember having a bit of a panic attack on the first day in the toilets, and within time I made some lovely friends and got a 1st class honours degree. A lot of my friends, especially those who had moved long distance to go to Uni found it a challenge at first, many of them doing their laundry and cooking for the first time proper. It took a few months to settle in, and by the end they were all sharing a house together.
For me, the key thing to remember is that it all doesn't fall in to place on day one, try a few different societies to make friends, and engage in student services at the university and the student union if you feel like you need some additional support
Marc
Arden University Student Ambassador
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