Blog: Five lessons from every phase of Uni life

Written by the Women in Politics Society

At Women in Politics, we’ve all had our own journeys at University of Birmingham. Through sharing our experiences, we’ve realised how much we’ve learned at every stage. Here are five lessons from each phase of university life…

First year learnings from Pleasant:

1. Everyone is still adjusting: Take comfort knowing that things are new for others too.
2. Trying new activities is important: Societies are communities where leaving your comfort zone leads to new skills and friendships.
3. It’s you versus you: University life is extremely independent. It’s vital that you stay disciplined, even on days off.
4. Socialising is essential: University might feel lonely sometimes , so it’s important to have people to spend time with.
5. It’s okay to take a day off: New environments can be overwhelming, it’s okay to have a ‘me day’ for your mental health.

Second year lessons from Jess:

1. The workload grows but so does your academic confidence: Remember your first-year growth during overwhelming times.
2. Take advantage of the services the university offers: Whether this is office hours, the careers network, or library services.
3. Take time for yourself: Talk to friends, families and engage with societies.
4. Opportunities are everywhere: You never know who you might meet at university events. Doors may open that could shape your year.
5. Build your skills: Start thinking about employability. You could begin with working on a LinkedIn page and CV that stands out!

Placement/Year Abroad takeaways from Lucy:

1. You learn who you are outside the UoB bubble: New environments force you to explore your identity.
2. Self-advocacy becomes a real-world skill: Whether in a workplace or another country, you learn to speak up for yourself.
3. Change is uncomfortable - but transformative: Figuring out transport, housing, culture or office dynamics teaches resilience.
4. Independence skyrockets: You return to campus with new confidence and perspective.
5. Perspective shifts: You see your degree, ambitions and strengths differently after stepping away for a year.

Final year realisations from Grace:

1. Make the most of every moment: Be grateful for every moment of the university experience.
2. Looking after yourself is vital: With hectic deadlines, job applications and a dissertation, remember the importance of self-care.
3. Change is okay: Graduating is one of the biggest shifts to face. Be excited for all the opportunities to come!
4. Community matters: Friends you meet at uni become family so it’s vital to hold onto those who value you.
5. Learn to appreciate your own growth: I’m completely different compared to first year, which shows all I’ve learnt and experienced along the way.

Postgraduate wisdom from Favour:

1. Focus is a skill, not a feeling: You create the environment for impactful work. Short, focused sessions often produce better results.
2. Most of the real learning happens outside the classroom: Planning readings, scheduling research and staying consistent are essential skills.
3. Conversations strengthen your thinking: Talking through ideas with classmates or lecturers often reveals new insights.
4. Balance is essential, not optional: Making room for supportive relationships fuels your ability to do meaningful work.
5. Community sustains you: The right people remind you to breathe, rest and stay grounded. Academic life is easier when you don’t walk it alone.