5 things I did to survive my 1st year of uni

Hey everyone how's it going? So finally finished my 1st year of uni and thought I would share my thoughts for people who were wondering what's it like living away from home

1) Cooking
I am part of the Slimming World group, so I have learnt to cook all my own meals. When I was living at home I was so used to my mother cooking for me. But following recipes online and reading packet instructions has made me realize that cooking is quite easy. I enjoy doing it and definitely will have to try and persuade my mum to let me cook a meal for the family. My favourite meal that I have made has to be the prawn special fried rice, I'm a lover of Chinese Takeaway, so it's definitely a healthier alternative. Also easy meals such as boiled plantain and super noodles have become regulars in my diet. Super filling and free on my diet plan.

2) Find a hobby
I study Magazine Journalism, and in my 1st year it has been quite steady. I was only doing about 8 hours a week. So when I wasn't in Uni I would spend my other time at the gym or working at GBK. It just makes it easier as a routine and you find yourself less in your room. My 2nd term of uni was really quiet, especially during the Easter break where I decided to stay in Southampton. As work wasn't as busy I found myself with less hours and all my friends had left to spend Easter with their families. I definitely recommend joining a society or having a job, just make yourself part of something so you don't find yourself sleeping or constantly in the books 24/7.

3) Limiting my money
I know this sounds like a pain, especially to those are spendaholics. It's helps if you spend your money on things you need rather than want. Obviously if you have a job that's a different story, you can spend your money however you like. But what saved me into not going into overdraft (like a few of my friends) is surviving on £20 a week for weekly shopping. because I cooked batch meals, it wasn't a problem for me, I didn't mind having the same breakfast, lunch & dinner throughout the whole week. As it meant I didn't have to worry about cooking if I was tired or snack out of place because my food was taking long to cook.

4) Handing in my assignments on time
Okay I admit I am guilty, one of my assignments was handed in late but other than that I manged to meet the deadlines. Getting it out the way means you have less to worry about.

5) Visiting the family
It's natural to get homesick. This is what happened with me, so I made trips to London two times while I was at uni for the 8 months period. I was lonely sometimes and being around the family reminded me of why I am doing this.