And from the beginning again …

Full of expectations, I set out on a journey towards a new phase in my life on the last September weekend. My feelings were indescribable, almost like a dream. I remember well what it was like opening the University of Exeter brochure two years ago and thinking that it could be the most beautiful place to study.

But it seemed almost impossible to me at the time: Stringent admission requirements, a low percentage of students admitted. Little did I know that I would come to that very school two years ago. And the fact that my girlfriend succeeded the same way made me even happier.

But life goes up and down. And my return to reality was quick. My Open Gate schoolmates who are a year older than I gave me a lot of information for the first days in the U.K., such as that a room’s furnishings do not always include a blanket, pillows, and towels. But all that would not fit into my suitcase, so I ordered a Unisak package containing basic requisites for students, including kitchen aids. What I did not expect was that they could send the parcel four days later. So I slept on a bare mattress, used T-shirts as towels, and kept eating sandwiches instead of cooking. At least I confirmed the law of diminishing marginal utility - I enjoyed the first sandwich much more than the seventeenth one. And speaking of law, let me mention one more: Murphy’s law. The package arrived on the day when I got fed up with waiting and bought all basic needs in town.  

And the university? A pleasant surprise and hard work.

I knew I would study at a university which is in the U.K.'s “Top 10.” What I didn't know was what it entails. It’s that excellent results are obvious - here, that something extra is sought. Basic knowledge and common sense are not enough anymore. Plus the competition is very sharp. But it just motivates you more, seeing a lot of tough, ambitious players and potential collaborators around you. 

It needs to be said, though, that the university does everything to support its students and enable them to develop quickly and efficiently, from tailor-made academic workshops to career advice. All information is accessible in electronic form on the Internet, including audiovisual recordings of lectures. But what I like best about the university is the campus. First, it is equipped wonderfully, which enables me to indulge in tennis and squash. Second, it is just beautiful and maybe a bit magical too. You have squirrels running around you one day. A seagull will come to see you having a snack another day. And even if you do not meet anybody, the nature around you always charges you with positive energy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In conclusion …

New environment, new people, new possibilities – it’s as if you come into a whole new world. In a way, you are starting from the beginning again. You need to build a position, know how to assert yourself, and you also have to use the opportunities that arise. It’s a big challenge, which, however, I am willing and happy to take. After all, many believe university life is the most beautiful part of your life.

A zase od začátku …
A zase od začátku …
A zase od začátku …
A zase od začátku …
A zase od začátku …
A zase od začátku …

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