Nervous about starting a new school, college or university? We've got some tips for you.
Starting a new phase of your life is an incredibly exciting time but it can also feel pretty overwhelming. Millie, 19, shares her advice for all those entering a new chapter this September.
Date: 18th September 2024
I remember my first day at university. I was so terrified that I started begging my parents to turn the car around and take me home! I didn’t know it then, but university turned out to be one of the best things I’ve ever done and by the end of my first year, I was heartbroken to leave.
One of my biggest fears back then was trying to navigate a new way of life by myself, plus the added pressure to make friends quickly.
I remember I had a big plan for how I was going to find friends but, in the end, I found my group of friends completely naturally. I just happened to get chatting with the girl sat next to me in my lecture who then invited me out that night. That’s where I met a group of friends who I not only got super close with but am now currently living with as well! Sometimes things just fall into place without you even trying!
If you’re heading off to university or college, a useful tip is to check if your school has an app or group for meeting other students. I did that before university, and a few of us arranged to meet up and go to our first lecture together, which made the ‘first day nerves’ so much easier!
Another idea is to explore the area a bit before you officially start. Maybe take a walk around town or try out a route you’ll be using regularly.
Getting familiar with the place can take away some nervous energy and help you feel more prepared.
And here’s the biggest thing to remember: take a deep breath. It sounds simple but it’s easy to get caught up in the stress and forget that everyone is feeling the same way. Feeling nervous before starting a new phase of your life is completely normal! It just means that you care, and honestly, that’s a good sign. Nerves aren’t necessarily a bad thing; they’re proof that what you’re doing is worth it.
So, if you’re anxious about this new chapter, that’s okay! It might end up being one of the best times of your life!
Millie is 19 years old and, this September, is excited to be starting her second year at Bangor University.
Through our flagship youth participation programme, Youth Platform, young people are shaping our training materials, influencing key decisions and ensuring the rail industry truly understand youth vulnerability.
More than 25 million Tanzanians are living in extreme poverty, leaving many young women and girls vulnerable to hunger, family breakdown, and abuse.
Since launching in 2018, Railway Children’s Night at the Station has raised more than £880,000 to reach and protect some of the world’s most vulnerable children. This year, the charity is aiming to surpass the £1m mark – and is calling on the rail community and individual supporters to help reach the target.
As the UK marks Neurodiversity Week (16th – 20th March), we reflect on the unique strengths different minds bring to Railway Children, the rich potential of the neurodivergent young people we support and why we’ve established a Neurodiversity Working Group to ensure every kind of mind can thrive.
In India, Railway Children is reaching some of the most vulnerable young people through a powerful and proven approach: peer leadership.
Read our guide to claiming your compensation and learn how to easily donate it to vulnerable children.
