Living in Leeds

Me and my flat mates in Leeds.

Moving from home last year was hard, especially with the current situation with coronavirus. I'm quite a home bird myself and find a lot of comfort being at home and being surrounded by familiar faces but I knew I had to step out of my comfort zone moving to a new city, not just for personal growth but for my future career too. I saw many opportunities in Leeds with my course and even job opportunities. After viewing Leeds a couple times for interviews and open-days, I just knew the city was for me as I could picture myself here.

It's certainly been a tough year, even though my 1st year of studies is over I still feel like I haven't properly experienced the uni life. Unfortunately I've only been into University 3 times and haven't been able to use the facilities properly, as well as my social life lacking as I've been unable to meet fellow peers or do activities you'd normally be able to do.

Here's some things I've learnt from this year in Leeds:

1) Step out of your comfort zone!

Even if you're on the fence about something, list the pros and cons of the situation and if there's more pros go for it! It's better to give something a chance to say you tried rather than thinking 'what if' and regretting it. Try step out of your comfort zone with meeting people too, I know it's difficult sometimes, for me I really struggled messaging and reaching out to people in Leeds through social media as this isn't something I don't normally do but it really paid off! I've met some great friends since and even benefitted from their help and advice with uni work.

2) Give things a try

Try new things in a new City such as different bars, social events or opportunities. You never know what might come out from them and what you'll end up benefitting from. I've learnt there's always something to do in a new city, even in the worst situations.

3) Be patient

You may not like being in a new environment at first or even feel like you're succeeding there but be patient. It takes a longtime to adjust to a new lifestyle, job or anything like that, but soon you'll find it becomes your new norm and things seem so much easier. My mum always told me to stick at things for at least 6 months and if you still don't like it after that, at least you gave it your best shot! And even if you do end up not liking it, you still learn so much, you might learn what you like and don't like or even where your next path is.

Overall, even though this year has been a strange one, I'm always glad I came this year as I've met some great friends and made some good memories, I'm excited to see what the next years bring!