Reflexive Account: My journey to University 

Throughout my life, I saw how my classmates already had their lives and dreams set out in front of them. As a child, I disliked being asked what I wanted to be in the future because I had not yet decided, and this caused me worry about what my journey would look like. I felt so lost because my interests and passions did not align with those around me.

I spent most of my time reading fantasy novels such as Percy Jackson, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, and watching movies/series such as Ertugrul, Pride and Prejudice, The Mummy, Gladiator and Troy. Although many of these are not historically accurate, they are my earliest memories of what ignited my passion for history, archaeology and literature.

Later in my school life, I had a hard time maintaining my grades within Science and Maths, whereas I truly flourished in English and History. Sadly, in Year 10, I made the decision to be homeschooled for my final year due to the decline in my mental health and having no support system within school. That year at home was needed, but it filled me with an overwhelming feeling of being behind those my age. I ended up sitting my GCSEs a year later than expected and applied for colleges on conditional offers. The courses I chose didn’t excite me or fit my interests, but I picked them anyway.

The summer passed calmly as I waited for my results, almost too calmly, especially because I believed this was my last chance at getting into college. Although my parents are understanding and supportive, I still hated the thought of seeing the disappointment on their faces, especially after the difficulty and expenses they went through to get me to take these exams. When my results arrived, the first person I went to was my older sister. She reassured me that even though I didn’t make the entry requirements for college, I would find another route.

A few days later, I discovered Foundation Years. I spent two weeks calling different universities and asking whether my qualifications could get me onto their course, and after many rejections, I finally came across UWTSD. I applied for the Archaeology course. By this time, my motivation was low and I had no expectations of a reply, but I received one and I was overjoyed. However, as the time to leave for university came around, I felt uneasy about leaving my family behind, being alone and so far away, with responsibilities I had never had before. 

After my first day on campus, meeting my classmates and lecturers, those feelings began to fade, and I started to open up to this new opportunity.

In conclusion, coming to university and doing a Foundation Year has given me a chance to think over what I want to achieve in life. Although I might not have everything figured out yet, I still have the chance to learn in an environment that is safe and welcoming.