Applying to University: What do you want to do?

The process of applying for university can be difficult, it’s always easier with help. After taking a gap year, so I didn’t receive much help.

I went back and forth between so many career paths during my gap year until deciding on what I wanted to do. Still considering many options, I am happy with my choice of journalism even if I want a different career in the future.

The biggest obstacle I found when applying for uni was what course was best suited for me and where I wanted to go. I had many ideas lined up, I applied for university in my home city and London, I knew those were the only options I wanted to consider. The hardest part was choosing my firm offer tin the end.

My biggest tip is to do your research. I didn’t. I picked the first university I found with the courses I wanted and just applied, even though it turned out well for me, I wouldn’t suggest it. It has caused me so much panic and stress. Not only this but I had applied and not gone to any open days, I didn’t know what the universities looked like, if they had good reviews or even what my course entailed. I felt rushed to kickstart my life, especially after taking a gap year I didn’t want to prolong the process.

Make sure you have an outline of what you want, is university the right path for you? Do you want to move away? Do you like the sound of your course? It is important to choose a course for your future career, but it is also important for you to like the course. It will not be a fun experience if you choose a course you end up hating.

As I mentioned I didn’t do my research, I chose my uni just because I wanted to move to London, with my hometown as a backup. I also chose my course just because I knew I liked to write and explore the world. I hadn’t looked into the topic at that point so I didn’t know what modules I would be doing or If I would enjoy them.

It is always best to prepare yourself, make a little list of things that interest you and what you will consider. Always remember that most things will be difficult and can take time. I was very dependent on people at home to help me to do things and moving to England has opened my eyes into what it’s like to do it yourself. Doing things with other people turned into me doing this on my own even simple tasks of shopping or public transport, especially in a busy city, it has been quite exhilarating.

You don’t need to know everything right now; you are still young. Even if you wait 20 years to go to university, or even if you don’t decide to go at all, it is always down to you to decide on how you want to spend your life. There is no right or wrong when it comes to university, but don’t take the mick, you’re paying a lot of money, might as well make it worth it.

Just a few small tips:

You can find online tips on how to do the applications, if you are in school don’t be afraid to ask for help from teachers, there are tips on UCAS about so many different aspects to applying; we are also here if you would like any extra assistance!

You know you, so don’t listen to people who don’t believe you can do something, a lot of people said that I wouldn’t be able to move to London but here I am. Or those people telling you not to do a gap year because you won’t go back, which I also go told, and yet again here I am.

You are in charge of your own life.

© Aimee-Michelle O’Connor 2022