Students' and Parents' Experiences
A Family Farewell
Friends were so amazed to find that 8 of my family members in 2 cars had to come all the way to Sheffield with me instead of saying their goodbyes from my house doorstep! It felt like one of those family days out except that the time came when they had to leave me and drive off back home. I am sure if I told you the way my family left me was so unfair, you all would surely agree. They left me standing in the registration queue all because they wanted to go shopping in Meadowhall! How rude of them! Right from the first minute I had to use my interpersonal skills in order to make new friends which I enjoyed because anything would beat having to stand on your own in a queue gazing into the sky!
To be honest, I actually felt as though I would miss out on making new friends as I wasn't as fortunate as some students who had the chance of living in halls. I had a temporary house rented out which was actually a very nice place to live in as it was brand new.
After a few days, everybody seemed to get on with everyone else. I was so sick of hearing the phrase 'everybody will be in the same boat as you,' but it was actually true! Living in a house didn't leave me limited in any ways at all. I have made so many friends that someone is always ringing me to meet up so I end up having no time for myself! I am very shocked to find that I spend very little time on my own in my house as I am either always out or I have my friends round at home and we all end up making Indian food! It has only been a couple of weeks and I already feel at home!
Do I miss home? Of course. No matter how many arguments you have at home, there comes a point when you do miss the slaps around your face for things which weren't even your fault! Gradually, you get used to living away as you always look forward to the weekend you are going home. The main reason why I look forward going home is being able to bring back loads of food my mum has cooked for me which can last me the whole of the following week! (I'm a student remember!) Students have very little money… but not when it comes to nights out in town!! The one thing which takes some getting used to is having to wake up every morning for 9am lectures. I do not get even one day where I can sleep in till 10am! Friends are so surprised that I can manage to wake up and not have eye bags!
Chemistry is one subject where you are guaranteed at least 3 to 4 early starts in the week. Besides learning problem solving skills, I am trying to master how to just be able to have a couple of hours of sleep and then have a long 9 till 5 day working in the lab....and not getting my lab partner to do everything for me!
Sheffield is a fantastic place to be. You will find out how fit you are when it comes to getting around the place. But if you´re anything like me then catching a tram around Sheffield, even to lectures in the morning, would be the best option when it comes to not wanting to turn up late!
Without experiencing Sheffield life, there's no way you're going to know the full story! This is only just half of it!
Smita Mistry
Chemistry
First Year