If you’d rather listen to this newsletter, click here.
One of these days you will be returning to university after the winter break. It may feel daunting! Take a deep breath and acknowledge how far you’ve come. This isn’t just the start of a new academic term. It’s another milestone in your journey.
For many of you, university is about more than just education. It’s a legacy in the making. All of you, but especially the first-generation students, carry the hopes of parents and grandparents who sacrificed, who worked long hours, and who dreamed of opportunities they may never have had. Your presence here is already a triumph. But it’s also a responsibility — not to be perfect, but to persevere.
Because let’s be honest: the first semester was (probably) tough. The jump from high school to university can be huge — new subjects, new expectations, a faster pace, and far more independence. If you found it overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many students struggle to adjust. The important thing is not whether you stumbled, but that you’re still here, still standing, still trying. That in itself is something to be proud of. University is not just a test of intelligence — it’s a test of resilience.
So how do you step into this new term with strength?
Start by reminding yourself why you’re here. Maybe it’s to change your family’s circumstances. Maybe it’s because you love learning. Or perhaps you’re still figuring that out — and that’s okay too. Purpose doesn’t always arrive fully formed. It grows, just like you do, through trial, failure, and growth.
Now is the time to realign your energy. Ask yourself:
- What do I want to achieve this term — academically, personally, emotionally?
- What challenges held me back last term, and how can I face them differently now?
- Who can I lean on for support — mentors, lecturers, classmates, student services?
Remember: success isn’t about going it alone. It’s about building your village. Seek out people who will lift you up, and be brave enough to ask for help when you need it.
Many of you may return to campus with worries. Finances might be tight. Family responsibilities may weigh heavily. You may feel the constant tension between two worlds — one foot at home, one foot in a world of lectures, deadlines, and campus life. That’s real. And it’s hard. But remember this: You belong here. You earned your place, and no one can take that away from you.
When the workload gets intense, take it one step at a time. Break big tasks into manageable pieces. Use your calendar not to scare yourself, but to stay grounded. Prioritise rest, even when it feels like a luxury. A tired mind cannot learn. Your wellbeing matters.
Don’t measure your journey with someone else’s ruler. Everyone comes from different starting points. Progress isn’t always about grades — sometimes it’s just showing up when you don’t feel like it, asking a question in class, or choosing to try again after a setback.
This term, challenge yourself not just to study, but to grow. Read widely. Join a campus society. Speak up in class. Let your education expand your world, not just your CV.
Here’s one specific challenge: do not take refuge in your phone when you feel awkward or even just bored. Talk to people. Meet people. Read longer pieces of text, like a long-read newspaper article. TikTok and YouTube are quite literally a waste of your time, and you don’t have time to waste this year or this semester. We will talk more about this next week.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Growth is not linear. Some days you’ll feel on top of the world, others you’ll feel like giving up. Both are part of the process. What matters is that you keep going. When things get tough, remember the child you once were who dreamed of being here. That child would be proud.
Enjoy the last of the holidays!
From the GRAD team
———————————————————
Click here to check out our other podcasts
If you like our content, forward and share!
