Starting university: expectations vs. reality

Starting university is a stage full of many illusions and expectations; we are about to start on a new path, in which we will find many challenges, fun and, of course, learning that will make us grow as people and as professionals.

According to our goals and the way we see life, expectations can be very positive and others not so much. In this article we show you the real side of 5 of the most common expectations we have when we enter the university stage, leaving aside some myths.

I’ll finally be independent

Although there are many who may have fears and uncertainties in this process, the truth is that most are really happy to start having an «independent» university life.

Not having people telling you what time to arrive, what time to eat or not having to explain where you are going can be great. There are even those who are already thinking about having a part-time job so that they are not financially dependent on their parents and can make a life of their own.

The reality about this is that as you get used to life on your own, you will miss the comfort of your mattress and your mum’s meals. In addition, it will take you some time to adjust to new responsibilities. Such as shopping and preparing meals, doing your laundry and studying, things that will teach you to appreciate what you’ve left behind.

But don’t worry, this will only be for the first few months. If you stay disciplined and persevere, you will soon be able to enjoy your independence.

I will save some of the money they send me

When we move into a dorm when we start college, we start receiving some allowances from our parents to cover any expenses we may have. And the first thing we think is: I’ll start saving up for those expensive treats I deserve.

But, the reality about this is that when you start interacting with friends, going places and doing different kinds of activities, there is very little left for saving. Of course, it’s not all about splurging, but you’ll find that setting up a savings plan isn’t as easy as we thought it would be.

I won’t be able to afford meals

The worst worry for a college student moving into a dorm when they start college is how to make time for grocery shopping and meal preparation. Especially if they’ve never touched a cooker in their life.

Well, the truth about this is that you end up learning and you may even find that your new favourite hobby is cooking. Although at first it is complicated to organise your time, little by little you start to define some routines for preparing your meals.

As for shopping, you will find out which are the cheapest places or places with bargains and you will also know what things you need to have as a basic element in your pantry. Yes, it’s the trance of adulthood.

It could also be that your parents are so lovely that they’ll prepare frozen meals for you when you visit for a few weeks and you’ll only have to spend time heating up what you’re going to eat. And, of course, there will always be a day when meals out will be the best option.

Teachers are very strict

The first expectation about starting university is about professors. Thinking they are super strict and you will have to spend days and nights to pass the courses. Moreover, don’t even think about doing badly, because you will immediately have a bad reputation as a student.

This is not true. There are professors who are demanding in the subjects. But the truth is that when you start university they will not be looking at your individual performance. But you are in charge of deciding how much effort you put into getting good grades or passing with the minimum pass mark.

Yes, there are difficult times, when several exams come together or when there is a subject that is difficult to understand. But there is nothing that you can’t overcome.

I won’t have time for anything

Finally, when starting university, we think that all our hobbies will be left behind, because of all the new study commitments we will have. However, the truth is that, with new friends, in a new city and with a great desire to see new places. There will be plenty of experiences and activities where you can have fun.

There will always be meetings with friends, parties, walks, time to go to the gym or shopping, among other things, so don’t be discouraged.

The only recommendation is that you find a group of friends who, in addition to having fun, will also dedicate time to their studies so that you can make the most of your new stage.