APPLYING FOR UNIVERSITY

1. If I said applying for university was easy I would be lying. The truth is, it is one of the most important decisions we make in our lives as it is the last stepping stone we take before entering into the real world of work, launching our careers and transforming our childhood dreams into our reality.

   
   

   For me it was a decision that really took some thought and I'm sure it will be that way for most of you

   
   

   The best advice I can give anyone applying to university is:

   1. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE CHOSEN THE RIGHT COURSE

   University is a lot more independent than many of us anticipate meaning it is up to you alone to make sure you attend all your lectures and seminars and keep on top of your deadlines. If you do not actually enjoy your course or rushed into choosing something for the sake of it but didn't actually want to study it then staying on top of everything can be very difficult and overwhelming. So choosing something that will lead toward your desired career and something you enjoy will make the experience worth it and will motivate you to put the work in!

   2. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ALL THE RESOURCES AROUND YOU

   Do thorough research of your course and universities by visiting UCAS Conventions and Open Days and speak to as many people as possible who have either been to university, understand the application process or have studied the exact course you have chosen and make sure any questions or queries you may have get answered. 

   3. MAKE UCAS YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND

   When applying to uni you're going to hear the word UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admission Service) a gazillion times so the sooner you get acquainted with their website the better as thats what you will be using to apply! https://www.ucas.com

   4. PRAY!

   The benefit of being a Christian is that scary decisions like these are made much easier! Knowing that God has already orchestrated your lifes plan should make you feel at peace. So with each new decision, university visit or moment of anxiety, consistently keep sharing your thoughts and concerns with Him and be lead so that you know every step you take is 100% the right one! And if you're not sure what you want to study yet or if you should even go to uni at all that's ok! God knows so the more time you spend with Him the faster you'll get your answers!

   
   

   
   

   So how exactly do you apply? Explaining it all would take me an incredibly long time however I made a little table showcasing the 5 main steps of applying to university for my brother that I think would help you guys too! It also includes some tips and tricks to help you along the way! Hope this makes the process a little easier! 

   and remember Gods got you! x

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   

   
   

   
   

   FOR A MORE DETAILED EXPLANATION OF ALL THE INFORMATION PROVIDED AND MORE VISIT: 

   
   

   https://www.ucas.com/sites/default/files/ucas-parent-guide-2016-entry_0.pdf

INTRODUCING: LIFE OF A UNI STUDENT

As I'm about to enter my final year of university, I have been reflecting on my journey so far and all the tips, advice and information I wish I had  been aware of prior to starting each new year, that could have made my experience not only easier but all the more enjoyable.

With a lot of my younger cousins, my sibling and family friends about to embark on the same adventure I figured this would be a great way to share some advice and encouragement for young people who are about to enter this new chapter in their lives. I'm considering making this a completely separate blog so let me know what you guys think? 

So far I can honestly say that going to university has been the best experience of my life! Not only have I enjoyed the studying aspect even with its challenges, but I also met life long friends including my best friend, gained new career experiences and opportunities and seen myself really grow more than any other time in my life into the woman I believed God has destined me to become.

But as we all know going to uni isn't just about the academic side of things (though that should be the most important part) as there are so many other things to consider such as:

1. What uni should I go to? How do I even decide?
2. Should I live in halls or stay at home? What about living with friends?
3. Assignments: Keeping to deadlines and what happens if I miss one?
4. To rave or not to rave?
4. What clubs and societies should I join?
6. Should I do a placement year?
7. Does being a Christian limit the 'fun' of my university experience?
8. How and when do I start planning for my 'life after university?'
9. Is good Time management possible? 
10.Exams: Revision techniques 
11. How do I budget whilst I'm in uni? Will I need to get a job?
12. Is it ok to be in a relationship whilst I am in uni or will it jeopardise my success?   
13. How do I maintain my relationship with God whilst in uni?
14. Dealing with stress and identity crisis 
15. Identifying and avoiding temptations

These are just a few of the issues i'll be tackling in this new segment and no stone will go unturned so feel free to send me any questions, thoughts or ideas you would like me to share and I hope this will help make your experience as smooth and stress free as possible and remember- you CAN do all things through Christ who strengthens you! (Phil 4:13)

I look forward to hearing all your queries and stay tuned for the next segment!