So, September is coming, and university life is about to begin. Starting university truly is one of the most exciting things you go through as a young person. Life is about to get very different, very quickly, but it’s going to be a change that’s going to lead to some of the best friendships and best experiences of your life.

University is a lot of fun: messing around with your friends, nights out and learning to live independently, but it’s not all just fun; you have to budget your money, occasionally live off plain pasta and there’s a small matter of a degree to earn. Here are some of the main expectations of university, and the reality that comes with them:

Accommodation and Flat Mates

Here at BU, we are very lucky to have some amazing accommodation, there’s not one set of halls I wouldn’t want to live in. When it comes to the expectations of what your accommodation will be like, at BU, the reality is pretty similar. The main unprecedented reality of accommodation is how dirty not only your bedroom, but bathroom and kitchen can get in such a small space of time. It’s your responsibility to look after and clean your flat, and putting aside a small amount of time every day, you only need 10 mins or so, to do a quick clean can make all the difference.

The expectation that your flatmates will be your best friends is somewhat true. Most of the time that will be the case, but sometimes it’s not the reality. Those first few weeks are very important to form those relationships, make the time to get to know one another and you’ll be living with your best friends.

Student Loan

This is simple, the expectation is that you will be super rich because of your loan, whereas in reality, the first few weeks you’re balling, but towards the end of the instalment you may find yourself living off plain pasta, and saying ‘no’ to every invitation for a night out. My main advice here would be talk to your parents or someone else about how to budget before you get to university, it can make all the difference. But if you’re really struggling for money, BU’s service AskBU can help point you in the right direction.

Lectures

The expectation is that you’ll make it to every single lecture, and maybe you will for the first few weeks, but in reality, due to illness or other interruptions, sometimes you won’t be able to make it to them all. This isn’t a big deal, but make sure you stay on top of notes and get all the details from the lecture.

Nights Out

The expectation is that you’ll be out all night and that you’ll enjoy being out all night. The reality is that there will be a stage during every semester where you need a break, and going out every night isn’t that fun at all.

University is all about having fun, living your best life and learning some pretty interesting stuff as well. To make the most of it, come in with realistic expectations, and just enjoy every second, it’s so worth it.