Written by Hannah Dean
As I prepared to begin university back in 2023, I was filled with a mix of excitement and overwhelming nerves. At just 18 years old, only ten days into adulthood, I was standing at the edge of a six-year degree, completely uncertain of what lay ahead. I didn’t know anyone, and the reality of moving away from home hit me hard. Saying I shed a tear or two would be an understatement.
The fear of the unknown was daunting, but amidst the uncertainty, I made myself a promise: no matter what challenges came my way, no matter who I met or how difficult things became, I would give it my very best.
Now, as I approach my 20th birthday and prepare to start my third year, I find myself reflecting on that time. I wonder how different my experience might have been if I had access to something like the framework we’ve created, a system designed to support student wellbeing, provide guidance, and foster a sense of belonging.
University is a journey of growth, challenges, and transformation, and while every student’s path is unique, having a strong foundation of support can make all the difference. Looking back, I can only imagine how much easier, more enriching, and less isolating those early days might have been with the right resources and community in place.
As I move through my degree, I’m learning university is more than just lectures, assignments, and exams, it’s a time of growth, self-discovery, and learning how to navigate both academic and personal challenges. At the heart of our university experience is a commitment to student success, wellbeing, and inclusion.
While academic achievement is important, so is developing resilience, confidence, and the skills to thrive in all aspects of life. The university’s Student Wellbeing Framework ensures that we’re not just seen as students, but as individuals with unique experiences, challenges, and goals. Knowing that our wellbeing is prioritised makes a huge difference, it means we’re supported not just in the classroom but in every aspect of university life.
For many of us, university can feel overwhelming at times. The pressure to meet deadlines, balance responsibilities, and plan can take a toll on our mental and physical health. That’s why it’s so important to have a system in place that genuinely prioritises student wellbeing. By creating an environment that fosters inclusivity, support, and personal growth, the university ensures that every student, regardless of background, identity, or circumstances, feeling valued and heard.
This commitment to diversity and inclusion isn’t just about policies; it’s about real, tangible efforts to make sure we all feel like we belong. Whether it’s through student support services, wellbeing initiatives, or simply fostering an open and welcoming campus culture, these efforts make a real impact on our university experience.
A huge part of this commitment is ensuring that we have a safe and supportive environment to grow in. University should be a place where we feel comfortable expressing ourselves, asking for help, and forming meaningful connections with others. The Safe Environments aspect of the framework plays a crucial role in this, promoting trust, respect, and overall wellbeing.
This means fostering healthy relationships, encouraging open conversations about mental health, and ensuring that every student has access to resources that support their wellbeing. Whether it’s counselling services, stress management workshops, or simply knowing there’s a space to talk when things get tough, these initiatives help us navigate the challenges of university life with confidence.
Personally, having access to wellbeing resources has made a huge difference in my university experience. It’s easy to feel like you must handle everything on your own but knowing that there are support systems in place makes it easier to reach out when you need help.
The emphasis on self-care, resilience, and emotional intelligence isn’t just about managing stress, it’s about building lifelong skills that will help us far beyond university. By prioritising our wellbeing, the university is giving us the tools to not only succeed academically but also to develop into well-rounded, confident individuals.
At the end of the day, university is about more than just getting a degree, it’s about personal growth, new experiences, and preparing for the future. By fostering a community that values student wellbeing, inclusivity, and support, the university is helping us make the most of our time here.
Feeling empowered, valued, and supported makes all the difference, and with these resources in place, we can truly thrive, not just as students, but as people.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
