If I had a time machine: What I’d tell my fresher self

Starting university is exciting, but it can also be daunting. From the moment you arrive, almost everything about your life is new, and it can feel overwhelming. As I approach my third year, I look back at those first weeks at the University of Warwick and wonder how I might have done things differently and what I did that positively shaped my first year.  

In the early weeks, I felt what I could only describe as imposter syndrome. Everyone seemed smarter than me and it felt like everybody already knew each other. Coming from a grammar school where I often struggled to keep up, I questioned how I had even made it into a Russel Group university like Warwick. I had low confidence in my abilities – it felt impossible to speak in seminars and approach my peers. 

Chances are, other people feel the same as you and are keen to talk and meet new people

Over time, however, I learned that I was not alone. Most students were just as nervous as I was, and everyone was grateful when someone broke the silence in seminars with a question or a thought. Much of my best learning took place discussing seminar topics with peers and sharing what we found confusing. If I could go back, I would remind myself that everybody is new, and putting yourself out there helps far more than staying quiet.  

Something I regret from the first term is letting nerves hold me back from social opportunities. I was excited to join Swiftsoc, Warwick’s well-known Taylor Swift fanbase, but I only attended one event all year. Anxiety about speaking to new people or going to events alone held me back, but I now know that the first term is the best time to meet people. I would tell my first-year self not to let nerves stop me from attending society events. Chances are, other people feel the same as you and are keen to talk and meet new people. 

If I could speak to my first-year self, I’d advise her to tackle small tasks immediately

That said, Welcome Week can feel like a lot of social pressure. I found myself going on nights out when I wasn’t in the mood, for fear of missing chances to make friends. Since then, I’ve realised that clubbing and drinking aren’t the only ways to bond with people. Some of my favourite days involved movie nights or chatting over a cup of tea in the kitchen. Let yourself rest and never feel guilty for saying no. 

Adjusting to academic independence also brought new challenges. Going from a structured timetable to independent study was overwhelming. Fewer contact hours mean procrastination is tempting. If I could speak to my first-year self, I’d advise her to tackle small tasks immediately. Planning essays and doing short readings will make coursework and revision easier in the long run. If you need support, don’t be afraid to speak to a lecturer, personal tutor, or the Wellbeing Team.  

Sometimes, the workload can feel overwhelming. My friend Ruby, whom I met through the halls last year, reflected that “finding the balance between enjoying university and investing in the future often feels impossible.” I started out studying three languages, determined to push myself. However, by the second year I realised that this structure was not for me – my grades were better in coursework, so having three exam-based subjects didn’t play to my strengths. I decided to drop to two languages and initially felt like I had failed. In reality, it is the opposite: it allows me to focus on my strengths, balance studies, and further explore the cultural side of language learning. Looking back, I would tell myself that changing parts of your degree isn’t giving up – it’s taking control of your learning. 

Sometimes I loved the freedom; other days I missed my parents telling me what to do! The turning point came when I realised that independence doesn’t mean tackling everything alone

Independence at university extends beyond academia. Suddenly, you’re balancing laundry, cooking, budgeting, and studying – all while trying to have a social life. Sometimes I loved the freedom; other days I missed my parents telling me what to do! The turning point came when I realised that independence doesn’t mean tackling everything alone. Group Tesco trips, cooking with friends, and the occasional call home for advice (yes, you can freeze milk) made everyday tasks much easier. I would tell my fresher self that being independent means acknowledging when you need some help. 

My main takeaway from my first year is this: if something isn’t working, change it. Whether it’s revision, social life, or your degree, never be afraid to re-evaluate. University is a time to explore yourself and find out what you want – don’t get stuck in a rut following rigid life plans or expectations you’ve put on yourself. Figuring out what works for you is a trial-and-error process. If I had a time machine, I wouldn’t erase the ‘mistakes’ I’ve made, but remind myself that they are a vital part of life and are shaping the person I want to be today.