Restarting 1st year at a different university.

hello,
I'm a 1st year law student at the University of Lincoln, I'm at the end of my 1st year and will pass it.
However, I've hated my time here and really struggled.
I found a university that I really love in a city I really love and realised I'd made a mistake but it didn't have to be like it was. I applied to transfer onto there 2nd year course but due to the differences in modules could not move onto it.
They have given me an unconditional offer to begin again at the 1st year level which I have accepted as it is the only way I can continue my studies as I could not remain were I am due to it's effects on my mental health.
so I would love some advice on how to make this productive as I feeI have wasted so much time and money and also ask if anyone else has made a move like this so I can better understand what it is like.

Reply 1

Stiffy Byng

Treat the year at Lincoln as a foundation, then have a great summer working, travelling, reading, or whatever, and start with a clean slate at the new place. Throw yourself into social life (if you are a social person). Join clubs and what not. You may find that some of what you learned at Lincoln will help a bit when you re-do some of the same stuff next year.

At this stage of your life, time isn't really wasted, as all experience is formative. You took a detour, and are now back on the main route.

Reply 2

shannon556

Thank you, that's my plan!! sucks how it's worked out but I'm hoping to still have a great university experience and finally get myself properly set up :smile:

Reply 3

Mamaagirlbehindu

If it makes you feel any better, I spent 3 years at a university that ruined my mental health, and I didn’t even graduate because the course was too difficult and I kept failing /resitting exams. I’m finally about to start a degree apprenticeship in a better city, and healthier work life balance.

Everyone is on their own journey, and you’re not behind. If I used the mentality that I’ve wasted time and money I’d still be depressed and hate myself. But beating myself about it won’t bring that time or money back, in fact it will waste more time.

You’re in a great situation, figuring out what you want so early on, and having the courage to leave is something most people don’t have. I know so many people forcing themselves to continue a degree that they hate. And starting from first year again is better because you’ll be with freshers, make new friends. And first year will also be much easier for you this time around.

There is no standard about where you should be at in your life by a certain age. Do what makes you happy and don’t feel guilty about it. Regret just wastes more time.