You’re not alone, you’re just new to being by yourself

Okay, first things first, we’re going to be more than okay, okay? We’re here to thrive. That said, this is probably one of the biggest changes you’ve ever been through, and I won’t lie, the learning curve is steep. But here are some things I really wish I’d known when I was a fresher.

Yes, I did freshers twice. I dropped out of my old uni before I came to LSE (best decision ever, totally unbiased, I swear). These are just my thoughts, and honestly, part of your growth here will be learning what to take from other people’s opinions, including mine.

Use tech, but make it work for you 

I don’t just mean AI, although yeah, it can be useful when you’re wondering whether it’s okay to wash your sheets with your coloured clothes, or how to make dinner with just plain pasta and a block of butter (don’t do it, please).

I mean tech like doing a virtual games night with your siblings, or going on a video call walk with whoever usually walks your dog, or cooking dinner while chatting to your mum. Your accommodation is probably the most socially acceptable place to do this stuff, so use that to your advantage.

And while we’re on tech, use it in a way that feels balanced. You’re here now. I know you miss home, and that’s so valid, but you can’t live there through a screen. It does get easier, but only if you let yourself be present. Use your tech, just use it well.

Perspective, please

I tried really hard to phrase this in a way that wouldn’t make you roll your eyes, but it’s true, you’re not actually alone. You might be by yourself, yeah, but you’re in the same boat as so many other exciting, weird, wonderful humans.

There are lifelong friendships out there, and they’ll probably start in the most unexpected ways. So keep an open mind. Get out there. Push yourself outside your comfort zone, whether that means going out when you’d usually stay in, or staying in when your comfort zone is more about being on the go. There is such a deep camaraderie and realness waiting to be found.

Reach out

Seriously. We’re here. You are supported, you are cared for, you are seen. If you need something, ask. You will be listened to. You’re not invisible.

Remember your why

There will be hard days. When they come, come back to your why.

Your ambition, your hopes, your dreams, hold onto those. Why did you move? Why did you choose to be here? Keep that somewhere close. Write it down, stick it on your wall, make it your phone wallpaper, whatever works.

Being driven by something bigger than just today’s mood is what will keep you going when it gets rough. Because at some point, it probably will.

Know when to tap out and when to stick it through

Sometimes you really do need to get away. And sometimes, it’s just a rough patch and you can ride it out. If you’ve got the option to go home, that can be even more tempting. Sometimes it’s exactly what you need, but check in with yourself. Ask if you’re going back because it’s right, or just because it’s comfortable.

Do a bit of research

If you’re reading this, congrats, you’re already ahead.

Look into the area around you, closest supermarkets, fun stuff to do, hidden gems. London’s full of surprises. I’ve lived here my whole life and I still fall in love with it all the time.

Knowing what to explore and what your next side quest might be helps shift your mindset from what have I left behind to what am I discovering.

Get yourself a routine

This one kind of explains itself, but please do it.

A routine will help you feel grounded. It’s structure. It’s safety. It tells your brain that you’ve got this, even on the messy days. It’s your foundation for this new normal you’re building.

You can’t run from yourself, so don’t

Sorry to break it to you, but it’s the truth.

There will be moments where you’re completely by yourself. And you need to be ready for those. Know yourself. Know what makes you feel like you. Learn what it feels like to spend time alone with your own thoughts.

In my opinion, this is the scariest and most rewarding part of moving out. Because at the end of the day, it’s you. You’re the one making choices. You’re the one deciding to enrich your life, be creative, be resilient, excited, and enthusiastic.

And yes, you’ll also be your own worst enemy sometimes. That self-sabotage hits different when you’re alone for the first time. But don’t run from it. Face it. Learn to sit with it.

Get comfortable saying no. Learn to overcome FOMO. It’s all about that sweet, elusive balance.

Hope this helped, even just a little.

Signing off for now, Shiv