10 things I wish I knew before going to university

University: a whirlwind of excitement, high and lows, and arguably one of the best times of your life. But it’s not all party, party, party – times get tough. So, here are 10 things I wish I knew before going to university.

Fresher’s flu is not a myth

Fresher’s flu is real. Naively, at first, I laughed in the face of people who talked about it. There is no way I would be taken out by a cold. I was wrong and have continued to be wrong every September since. Beware!

Take multivitamins

They will save you... honestly.

Your sleep will never be consistent

You can safely say goodbye to a reasonable sleep schedule. Those days are gone. A 12 o’clock lie-in never felt so good.

Bring fancy dress outfits

There will be plenty of fancy dress parties, so don't forget to pack the crazy outfits you never imagined you'd need.

Don't hook up with your flatmates...

Need I say anymore?

First year does count

Yes, all you need is to pass, but make sure you’re listening as first year content will come back to haunt you.

You don't have to live up to student stereotypes

You can still have a good night out without alcohol – maybe an even better one. At least you won't be the one sitting over your toilet at three in the morning praying never to drink again.

Only pack the basics

It’s easy to pack excessively when moving but remind yourself you will only need the basics. You will never use or see your whisk again, trust me.

A healthy diet – what is that?

Your diet will likely consist of mainly pasta and toast for the duration of your degree, but that’s okay...

Student loans are not free money

Once that money has landed in your bank account, the temptation to splurge it is real. You will have to learn how to budget, and fast. Don't be that person who blows it all on nights out because, trust me, the rest of the term won't be plain sailing.

Edited by Michelle Almeida