From: Freya (Peer Guide)

Freya is a Peer Guide, a Manchester Met student here to provide advice and guidance during your time at university.

In her voice note, she shares her experience with feeling nervous, reaching out for help, and finding where you belong.

Transcript

Hi everyone. I'm Freya and I study French with Spanish.

If you're anything like I was, I can imagine you have so many mixed feelings and emotions about starting uni. You're not alone and there's so many amazing things to look forward to as you start this new chapter. I know it sounds so cliché, but time really does fly by.

It's very normal to feel nervous about meeting new people and making friends, but I can assure you, you're not the only one who feels like that, and there's going to be so many people in the same position. Generally, you'll find that most people are so friendly and will be open to getting to know you.

I get that everyone's journey here is completely different and unique, but I can guarantee that these next few years will be life changing in so many ways with everything our uni and Manchester has to offer. Take it from me, someone who was unsure of whether to go to uni or not. Now I never want to leave.

I would suggest taking the time to really explore the campus. With it being in a city, everything is quite spread out, so there's lots of things people might miss or maybe not even know about.

During my first few weeks, I went to the Student Hub more times than I can count, whether that be with finance, accommodation, academic support. If they can't help you, they'll also be able to signpost you to other people who can.

Manchester's known for being a city where you're able to explore and really find where you belong, and that will be a huge part of your uni experience. Remember, you've chosen to come to Manchester for a reason. I'm sure you'll fall in love with the city if you haven't already.

I hope to see you around campus soon. Enjoy the rest of your summer. Over and out.