University life isn’t all fun and games, do not fall for the hype

University students

Keep good company because friends will help you out in your time of need.

Photo credit: Pool

What you need to know:

  • The cost of living is extremely high for a student like me who is dependent on parents and student loans.
  • I cannot count the number of times I went to bed hungry or had to visit a friend during lunch hour. 

I remember with nostalgia when I received my results and, to my relief, had qualified to join university.
I looked forward to the freedom, the life of not having teachers and parents constantly breathing down my neck, and the fact that I could attend classes if and when I wanted.

Above all, I looked forward to the dating experience. After all, I was an adult now and I could do anything I wanted as long as it was not illegal.

Little did I know I was in for a rude shock. The cost of living is extremely high for a student like me who is dependent on parents and student loans, from rent to food and buying school requirements. I cannot count the number of times I went to bed hungry or had to visit a friend during lunch hour. 

The dating experience became more of a “character development” exercise. From one heartbreak to another, emotional roller coasters, confusion... after going through all that, I am about to leave the university while still single.

Story of many students

I still haven't talked about my coursework. When I joined university for my commerce degree, I thought I was going to graduate with first-class honours, but now all I want is a degree. Time without number I have sat in a lecture room for two hours and left without understanding a single thing. I am no dimwit but campus made me doubt my intelligence.

I am the rule, not the exception. This is the story of many students today. This explains why depression levels are very high among students. Our high unemployment levels and dwindling economy add salt to injury.

My advice to anyone wishing to join college is lower your expectations. Study hard because getting to campus gives you a better chance of succeeding in life. Manage your finances wisely. Don’t live beyond your means. If time allows, start a business on the side. 

Take your time before you get into relationship or avoid them until you clear school. Lastly, don’t be a loner. Keep good company because friends will help you out in your time of need. I wish you all the best in your journey to become a graduate. 

Mitchelle studies Commerce at Chuka University.

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