My university experience after a gap year

I always knew that university was for me, the independence, the freedom and the overall experience of being an adult and having grown up responsibilities. Since starting university in September 2022, it soon became apparent to me that this experience is nothing like what I had experienced before. Having been in the same school, along with sixth form for 7 years, it reassured me and provided me with a sense of security. That didn’t last for long, as 6 months into sixth form, COVID-19 happened, and the need to remain positive was the highest it’s ever been.

Looking beyond this and focusing on my future career was the best thing for me, and when restrictions were lifted, both virtual and in person open days became more and more frequent. Through my gap year, I continued to explore, work and prepare myself for my university experience while making the most of my free time and planning my future goals and aspirations. Northampton for me was a no-brainer and I love little towns with lots of history and small independent businesses, along with the personal teaching schedules and in-depth modules that the university provides to their students.

The responsibilities soon became apparent and the need to organise and balance my work and personal life was so important. The university is so inclusive, and they really are dedicated to ensuring that everyone feels safe and secured while studying and living here. Meeting new people and surrounding yourself with new environments can be daunting, but inevitably, with the constant flow of people through the university and their facilities, making conversation and interactions soon became embedded and part of my daily routine.

So, the nerves and compelling feeling soon wears off! I love my course due to my love for exploring and enjoying different places. This has grown with time.

The dream for me beyond university is marketing as I love being creative and making use of my ability to create new ideas and innovations quickly. Events and tourism cover such a wide range of factors which is why I’m so passionate about my studies. I love seeing new places, attending events and being part of such a huge community within the events sector.

I really feel that studying events management at the university of Northampton has been worthwhile for me, and although it can take a while to find out what course or industry you want to go into, finding something that you’re passionate about is the main factor. The course is challenging, but working towards a goal is never easy, which is why I would strongly encourage anyone considering university, no matter what it is that they are seeking to study, to just go for it.

You’ll never know unless you push yourself outside of your comfort zone.

The people you meet and the connections you make with likeminded people and professionals in the industry really makes you realise why it is that you chose the subject and industry. The placement opportunities that you encounter at university are endless.

I am currently looking into my placement year options between my second- and third-year studies, and it excites me knowing that so many businesses and organisations are inclusive and can offer me exactly what I’m looking for. To conclude this blog, I would say that university has well and truly changed not only me as a person but my outlook on life! Stay motivated, take the risk, and make so many memories. Put in the work and you will benefit from the outcome.

If you are interested in the Events Management BA course here at the University of Northampton, more information can be found via the website.

Shannon Benwell

Shannon is an open minded, motivated, and organised events management student focusing on her future career while journaling, enjoying my university experience and staying on track to becoming successful.