A letter to first year me: Ellis

Posted on: 4 July 2024 by Richard Finch in Student experiences

Ellis is a Class of 2024 BSc Psychology graduate. Here, she looks back at her time at the University of Liverpool and thinks about what she would tell her first-year self.

Wow, you’re in for a ride!

After a stressful summer of predicted A-Level grades due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and uncertainty as to whether you would have to defer a year or not, you made it to university, even if you did only have 3 weeks’ notice!

You should be incredibly proud of yourself after getting into a top Russell Group University to study Medicine, all your hard work and effort has paid off. Your parents are immensely proud and most of all, 9-year old Ellis’ dreams have finally come true.

A year of COVID restrictions, countless all-nighters studying and many emotional phone calls to your Mum (thank-you Jayne!) will make you question all of your hard work, childhood dreams and your entire future. Endless tears will be shed but trust me, changing courses will be one of the most difficult but best decisions you will ever make.

Ever since you stepped foot in Mrs K A-Level Psychology class you knew that Psychology was your true passion. Over the next few years your interest in human communication and behaviour will grow significantly. You will meet some of the best people and will make friends for life. You will even start to work as a Career Coach at the University for 2 years where you will learn so much and gain incredible life experiences.

In final year, your dissertation will push you to breaking point, job applications will be super stressful and personal challenges will test you even further. But you will be ok. Again, your hard work and effort will pay off. You will continue to meet the most fabulous people and a massive weight will be lifted off of your shoulders when you submit your dissertation. A summer full of festivals, travelling and an amazing graduate job awaits you. You can finally say that you have survived university (even if you didn’t think you would at some points!).

I am proud of you and remember; believe in yourself, celebrate your achievements and most of all, relax, you will do amazing!

Ellis 😊 x