What I learned from my university experience

It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous when starting a new chapter at university. Embrace these emotions as they are a natural part of the experience. Embark on a thrilling journey of new beginnings and exciting adventures. Keep the adrenaline pumping and relish every moment of your time at Uni. With a positive outlook and a zest for life, your experience is sure to be nothing short of fabulous. As a proud alumna who pursued further studies with the University of Northampton, I can attest that the journey also had its share of highs and lows. However, I highly recommend staying focused, seeking assistance, and tapping into the abundant support available. I may have missed out on some opportunities due to the overwhelming support system, but it’s a small price to pay for the valuable guidance and encouragement received.

Enhance and delight your degree experience by staying attentive and focused, regardless of your field of study. By committing to attend the majority of module classes (we all have off days, of course), you’ll have access to all the information you need and can easily ask your tutors any questions that come up. Discover also the vast knowledge available online! Ensure you comprehend the website that offers additional assistance and support. Take a moment to peruse its offerings.

Academic support

If you happen to miss a few module classes, don’t worry! I speak from experience. I was once in your shoes, lacking confidence in my writing skills and assignments, having feelings of failure and doubting my ability to improve. However, I received excellent academic support and guidance from my tutors. They were always there to provide extra clarification on assignments and boost my confidence. Now, I can confidently say that I have improved significantly in academic writing. Trust me, with the right support, you too can become a better writer. While it may not be the ideal attitude that I am promoting, I simply wanted to express my sentiments. I understand that many of you who are new to the academic world may experience similar emotions, but I want to assure you that things will improve with time! Unbelievable but true! After just 4 years, I have gained an immense amount of confidence, all thanks to the exceptional guidance and unwavering support of my lovely tutors. My unwavering determination to progress has also played a significant role in my success.

Student support

Don’t let stress consume you. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, but it’s important to keep your end goals in mind. As a university student, you likely have a desire to excel academically while also enjoying your experience and expanding your knowledge in your chosen field. Stay focused on achieving your best self and making the most out of your time in university. Experience the incredible end result.  Experience the best of both worlds with our academic programmes, available both online and in-person. The extensive library boasts an impressive collection of books and resources, providing you with ample support to excel in your studies. You may even find yourself lost in the vastness of the library, never wanting to leave.

Whether you’re a fresh-faced graduate like I once was, or an established student like myself, or even a proud parent (yes, that’s still me!), it’s crucial to remember that you are never alone. I’m so excited to share with you a super personal healing story of mine! I’ve officially completed my Early Childhood Education degree and I won’t lie – there  were definitely some nerve-wracking moments and times when I lacked confidence, but with the right motivation and support, I pushed through and came out the other side feeling happier, more devoted, and more accomplished than ever before. I can confidently say that I’ve checked off every box and exceeded my own expectations in every way – personally, professionally, and academically. I’m so excited for what the future holds!

Therefore it is not about pleasing everyone, it’s about knowing your goals and how far you want to go. Only YOU have the power to make it happen! My degree was about Early Years, but what I didn’t expect was how much healing I would receive from this degree. The university is truly amazing and equipped not only academically, but also with counselling and support for students. And let’s not forget about all the fun social events around campus and surrounding areas that are always advertised and  you will learn and hear about it soon!  It’s all about balance, right? So if you you have already considered this path, I strongly suggest you take the plunge and have some fun while you’re at it!

Alumni

I am beyond thrilled with everything this university has to offer! After missing out on some opportunities during my first degree, I knew I had to continue my education and pursue a Masters in Education. Thanks to the incredible support and guidance I received, I was able to confidently make this decision and take my career to the next level. I just had an amazing experience also enhancing my knowledge and skills with the help of the Changemaker programme at my university. Trust me, you need to check it out and get involved! You won’t regret it – it’s all about benefiting and growing yourself.

At this point in time, I am inclined to go even more profound into academia and explore the possibility of pursuing a PhD. While I have yet to submit an official application, I am certain that the university has played an essential part in finding various aspects of my personality that I was previously unaware of.

Find out more about our Early Years programmes and MA Education.

Daniela Laslau

Daniela Laslau is a devoted wife and mother of two who is constantly striving to better herself and set a shining example for those around her. Her endless thirst for knowledge fuels her passion for lifelong learning, and she is committed to being an example of positivity and inspiration to all who cross her path.