Feeling lost at uni
I recently started uni. Tbh it’s not really lived up to my expectations. Like I’ve made friends and it’s not like awful. But I’m not finding it very fufiling. I’ve been struggling to go to lectures and such cuz I don’t really see the point as I never learn anything in them. I genuinely don’t know what else to do. I really tried at the start of the semester. But by the end I did all my assignments last minute. I think I’ll past my modules but not by flying colours by any means. I’ve passed all my individual assignments so far but I didn’t very well in a recent one. And I’m worried about another cuz I messed up the references and there’s a lot of missing. Just kinda disappointed in myself and feel bad for those around me. It’s entirely my fault but I’m not exactly sure how to change. Once I stopped going to lectures my anxiety around them has increased. I’m not entirely interested in my degree but it’ll be good for getting a job. I worked full time last year in something I’ll probably end up in after get my degree. I’m doing international business. Didn’t particularly enjoy it. Don’t seem to enjoy anything and if I were to leave uni to pursue something else idek what it would be. Seem to have no ambition or motivation, just kind of useless. I’m just kind of stumped and struggling to see any future for myself. I’ve asked my mum try therapy to see if I can improve but I think I’m just lazy. It’s my fault I’m feeling down my sleep schedule is wack. I’ve started to not really care cuz I don’t see the point of being awake in the day time I prefer the night. But that’s cuz I don’t really have any hobbies, Idk the days just seem endless. Don’t get the idea I don’t go out haha. Like I go out at night, I’m in a few societies, and I spend the days with my friends. But I can’t seem to take the steps towards improving by myself, if other people aren’t involved I struggle to see any point. I feel like I’m just waiting for something to click or change. I know I have to make this happening but it’s just a constant feeling of meh in whatever I do. These all sound like excuses but I’m confused and really don’t know what to do anymore. I just wanna feel happy or at least content.
Reply 1
Hey there,
I’m sorry to hear the university hasn’t lived up to your expectations and you are really enjoying the experience. Have you spoken with your friends about how you’re feeling? Maybe they feel the same way and have lost motivation too, in which case you could all plan to do something totally different like go out for the day and get away from campus to give you a break and a change of scenery.
That least it’s the Christmas break now and you have the opportunity to have a break a rest, reset and relaxation. During this time you could sort out your sleep routine, which might help. While you’re on the break you could think if it’s the course in its entirety you don’t enjoy in which case could you switch to another? Or was it just that module? I found in my first term of first year the modules were more of an introduction and it really got going after that first Christmas, could it be the same for you?
Once the new term starts, speak to your tutors about your lack of motivation, and student services, reach out for the support on offer. And stick with the clubs and societies theyre a good way of keeping a work/life balance,
Good luck with everything, and I hope this helps a bit,
Jess
University of Chester
I’m sorry to hear the university hasn’t lived up to your expectations and you are really enjoying the experience. Have you spoken with your friends about how you’re feeling? Maybe they feel the same way and have lost motivation too, in which case you could all plan to do something totally different like go out for the day and get away from campus to give you a break and a change of scenery.
That least it’s the Christmas break now and you have the opportunity to have a break a rest, reset and relaxation. During this time you could sort out your sleep routine, which might help. While you’re on the break you could think if it’s the course in its entirety you don’t enjoy in which case could you switch to another? Or was it just that module? I found in my first term of first year the modules were more of an introduction and it really got going after that first Christmas, could it be the same for you?
Once the new term starts, speak to your tutors about your lack of motivation, and student services, reach out for the support on offer. And stick with the clubs and societies theyre a good way of keeping a work/life balance,
Good luck with everything, and I hope this helps a bit,
Jess
University of Chester
Reply 2
Original post
by AnonymousI recently started uni. Tbh it’s not really lived up to my expectations. Like I’ve made friends and it’s not like awful. But I’m not finding it very fufiling. I’ve been struggling to go to lectures and such cuz I don’t really see the point as I never learn anything in them. I genuinely don’t know what else to do. I really tried at the start of the semester. But by the end I did all my assignments last minute. I think I’ll past my modules but not by flying colours by any means. I’ve passed all my individual assignments so far but I didn’t very well in a recent one. And I’m worried about another cuz I messed up the references and there’s a lot of missing. Just kinda disappointed in myself and feel bad for those around me. It’s entirely my fault but I’m not exactly sure how to change. Once I stopped going to lectures my anxiety around them has increased. I’m not entirely interested in my degree but it’ll be good for getting a job. I worked full time last year in something I’ll probably end up in after get my degree. I’m doing international business. Didn’t particularly enjoy it. Don’t seem to enjoy anything and if I were to leave uni to pursue something else idek what it would be. Seem to have no ambition or motivation, just kind of useless. I’m just kind of stumped and struggling to see any future for myself. I’ve asked my mum try therapy to see if I can improve but I think I’m just lazy. It’s my fault I’m feeling down my sleep schedule is wack. I’ve started to not really care cuz I don’t see the point of being awake in the day time I prefer the night. But that’s cuz I don’t really have any hobbies, Idk the days just seem endless. Don’t get the idea I don’t go out haha. Like I go out at night, I’m in a few societies, and I spend the days with my friends. But I can’t seem to take the steps towards improving by myself, if other people aren’t involved I struggle to see any point. I feel like I’m just waiting for something to click or change. I know I have to make this happening but it’s just a constant feeling of meh in whatever I do. These all sound like excuses but I’m confused and really don’t know what to do anymore. I just wanna feel happy or at least content.
Hi there,
I am sorry that you have been feeling this way - university can be hard and there are a lot of expectations around going to uni and it can be hard when you feel like your experience doesn't live up to this so I understand how you are feeling.
In terms of your assignments, I would try to remember that you have only just started and it can take a while to get into the swing of how to write an assignment at uni as they are quite different to what you will have done before. Things like referencing are hard to get the hang of so try not to worry if you haven't got the hang of this straight away. I would say that a good thing to do would be to ask your tutors bout any feedback that you have received that you don't understand as they will be able to help you and should be able to explain to you anything that you don't quite get which should help you the next time you have an assignment.
Sometimes your uni will put on skills sessions too - at Hallam, the library has lots of skills and study events where you can get help with things like referencing, critical writing and general essay structure which are very helpful so have a look and see if your uni does things like this too.
I would also echo what has been said here already - try and talk to people about how you are feeling. You never know, your friends may also feel the same way so it is worth taking to them as this can help a lot. If you are really struggling, it is also a good idea to talk to your uni about how you feel - the wellbeing team at your uni will be there help you and support you if you need it so make sure you get in contact with them if you feel you need it.
Hopefully having some time off now for Christmas will help you to recharge and you may end up coming back to uni with a new mindset and really enjoying it!
But also remember that there are options if you really aren't enjoying it - you could transfer universities or courses, or just stick it out!
I hope some of this helps,
Lucy -SHU student ambassador.
Reply 3
Original post
by AnonymousI recently started uni. Tbh it’s not really lived up to my expectations. Like I’ve made friends and it’s not like awful. But I’m not finding it very fufiling. I’ve been struggling to go to lectures and such cuz I don’t really see the point as I never learn anything in them. I genuinely don’t know what else to do. I really tried at the start of the semester. But by the end I did all my assignments last minute. I think I’ll past my modules but not by flying colours by any means. I’ve passed all my individual assignments so far but I didn’t very well in a recent one. And I’m worried about another cuz I messed up the references and there’s a lot of missing. Just kinda disappointed in myself and feel bad for those around me. It’s entirely my fault but I’m not exactly sure how to change. Once I stopped going to lectures my anxiety around them has increased. I’m not entirely interested in my degree but it’ll be good for getting a job. I worked full time last year in something I’ll probably end up in after get my degree. I’m doing international business. Didn’t particularly enjoy it. Don’t seem to enjoy anything and if I were to leave uni to pursue something else idek what it would be. Seem to have no ambition or motivation, just kind of useless. I’m just kind of stumped and struggling to see any future for myself. I’ve asked my mum try therapy to see if I can improve but I think I’m just lazy. It’s my fault I’m feeling down my sleep schedule is wack. I’ve started to not really care cuz I don’t see the point of being awake in the day time I prefer the night. But that’s cuz I don’t really have any hobbies, Idk the days just seem endless. Don’t get the idea I don’t go out haha. Like I go out at night, I’m in a few societies, and I spend the days with my friends. But I can’t seem to take the steps towards improving by myself, if other people aren’t involved I struggle to see any point. I feel like I’m just waiting for something to click or change. I know I have to make this happening but it’s just a constant feeling of meh in whatever I do. These all sound like excuses but I’m confused and really don’t know what to do anymore. I just wanna feel happy or at least content.
Hi Anon,
My name is Alex and I'm a second year Psychology student at YSJ. I know how you feel - I really struggled in my first year to attend lectures and keep up after taking a gap year. This time of year can be especially difficult - it's dark all the time, and it kind of zaps your energy, so you're lethargic and demotivated all the time. Especially in the first year when you don't know what to expect. Try and take a break over xmas (and get that sleep schedule sorted!) and I'd certainly book some time with your tutor or the help services at your university to talk about your course. It happens all the time - students change their mind, or realise the course isn't what they thought it was, and don't know what to do. Perhaps talking to a careers counsellor can help you figure out what you want to do, and if this degree will help you get there. You mentioned you worked a job previously in relation to international business but you didn't particularly enjoy it - it can be easy to travel down the road of "I have experience in this area, so it makes the most sense for me to work there", but I suggest thinking about whether this is whats right for you.
You have lots of time to figure out what you want to do, and lots of people at the university who can support you during the process. You're not alone!
I hope this helps and that you feel better soon.
-Alex, Student Ambassador
Reply 4
Original post
by AnonymousI recently started uni. Tbh it’s not really lived up to my expectations. Like I’ve made friends and it’s not like awful. But I’m not finding it very fufiling. I’ve been struggling to go to lectures and such cuz I don’t really see the point as I never learn anything in them. I genuinely don’t know what else to do. I really tried at the start of the semester. But by the end I did all my assignments last minute. I think I’ll past my modules but not by flying colours by any means. I’ve passed all my individual assignments so far but I didn’t very well in a recent one. And I’m worried about another cuz I messed up the references and there’s a lot of missing. Just kinda disappointed in myself and feel bad for those around me. It’s entirely my fault but I’m not exactly sure how to change. Once I stopped going to lectures my anxiety around them has increased. I’m not entirely interested in my degree but it’ll be good for getting a job. I worked full time last year in something I’ll probably end up in after get my degree. I’m doing international business. Didn’t particularly enjoy it. Don’t seem to enjoy anything and if I were to leave uni to pursue something else idek what it would be. Seem to have no ambition or motivation, just kind of useless. I’m just kind of stumped and struggling to see any future for myself. I’ve asked my mum try therapy to see if I can improve but I think I’m just lazy. It’s my fault I’m feeling down my sleep schedule is wack. I’ve started to not really care cuz I don’t see the point of being awake in the day time I prefer the night. But that’s cuz I don’t really have any hobbies, Idk the days just seem endless. Don’t get the idea I don’t go out haha. Like I go out at night, I’m in a few societies, and I spend the days with my friends. But I can’t seem to take the steps towards improving by myself, if other people aren’t involved I struggle to see any point. I feel like I’m just waiting for something to click or change. I know I have to make this happening but it’s just a constant feeling of meh in whatever I do. These all sound like excuses but I’m confused and really don’t know what to do anymore. I just wanna feel happy or at least content.
Hi there,
First, I’m really sorry to hear you’re feeling this way, but it’s great that you’ve shared how you’re feeling, it’s a big step toward figuring things out. Uni can be a tricky time, and it’s not uncommon to feel a bit lost or unmotivated, especially if the course doesn’t feel particularly fulfilling right now.
It sounds like you’ve already identified a few areas you want to work on, which is a good starting point. Small, manageable steps can make a big difference. For example, with lectures, you could start by attending just one or two each week and gradually build from there. Even if they don’t feel immediately useful, being there can help you stay in the loop and may make assignments feel less daunting later on.
With assignments, don’t beat yourself up too much about past grades or mistakes—it happens to everyone. What matters is learning from it. Try setting mini-deadlines for yourself to tackle future tasks bit by bit, which might help reduce last-minute stress.
It’s also okay to feel uncertain about your degree or the future. If international business doesn’t feel like your passion but you’re continuing because of job prospects, think about the skills you’re gaining (time management, critical thinking, etc.) and how they can be applied in different fields. Your uni’s careers service could be helpful if you want to explore other options or paths.
As for feeling “meh” or unmotivated, therapy is a really positive step, it can help you unpack these feelings and figure out strategies to improve. You mentioned struggling to take steps on your own, so leaning on resources like a personal tutor, a well-being advisor, or even a trusted friend could provide extra support and accountability.
Lastly, it’s important to focus on self-care, even in small ways. A regular sleep schedule, some time outside during the day, or picking up a new hobby could help break the cycle of feeling stuck. Be patient with yourself—it’s okay to not have everything figured out right now.
You’re not alone in feeling this way, and things can improve with time and support. Take it one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the resources available to you.
Reply 5
Original post
by AnonymousI recently started uni. Tbh it’s not really lived up to my expectations. Like I’ve made friends and it’s not like awful. But I’m not finding it very fufiling. I’ve been struggling to go to lectures and such cuz I don’t really see the point as I never learn anything in them. I genuinely don’t know what else to do. I really tried at the start of the semester. But by the end I did all my assignments last minute. I think I’ll past my modules but not by flying colours by any means. I’ve passed all my individual assignments so far but I didn’t very well in a recent one. And I’m worried about another cuz I messed up the references and there’s a lot of missing. Just kinda disappointed in myself and feel bad for those around me. It’s entirely my fault but I’m not exactly sure how to change. Once I stopped going to lectures my anxiety around them has increased. I’m not entirely interested in my degree but it’ll be good for getting a job. I worked full time last year in something I’ll probably end up in after get my degree. I’m doing international business. Didn’t particularly enjoy it. Don’t seem to enjoy anything and if I were to leave uni to pursue something else idek what it would be. Seem to have no ambition or motivation, just kind of useless. I’m just kind of stumped and struggling to see any future for myself. I’ve asked my mum try therapy to see if I can improve but I think I’m just lazy. It’s my fault I’m feeling down my sleep schedule is wack. I’ve started to not really care cuz I don’t see the point of being awake in the day time I prefer the night. But that’s cuz I don’t really have any hobbies, Idk the days just seem endless. Don’t get the idea I don’t go out haha. Like I go out at night, I’m in a few societies, and I spend the days with my friends. But I can’t seem to take the steps towards improving by myself, if other people aren’t involved I struggle to see any point. I feel like I’m just waiting for something to click or change. I know I have to make this happening but it’s just a constant feeling of meh in whatever I do. These all sound like excuses but I’m confused and really don’t know what to do anymore. I just wanna feel happy or at least content.
Hi
Sorry to hear that you are feeling like this about your course.
I think that there will be more people than you think in this situation, I would try to speak to your personal tutor to see what support they could put in place for you. I think that this is the best way to get an action plan in place to help you to see what you need to do to get you back to enjoying your course.
I would try to have a chat with your friends and family to let them know how you are feeling about it as well.
I hope this helps & you have a great winter break,
Matt
Wrexham University Reps
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