Upon reflecting on my undergraduate experience, I thought I was ready. But looking back, there are several insights I wish I knew from the start. Here are five personal lessons I acquired via experience that I hope will help make your transition smoother:
When I first started, I did not have a clear career goal. I felt lost many times, especially when my friends seemed to know what they wanted to do. Studying international management allowed me to expose myself into different business areas, helping me to discover what I genuinely wanted. For me, that turning point came during an exchange year in Singapore (NUS) where I took a real estate module that completely change my direction. I’m now heading to London to pursue a master’s in real estate – something I never would have predicted in my first year!
At high school, success was clear cut, based on grades, rankings, and achievements. But at university, I learned that success is much more than personal. For some, it’s landing a top ranked internship. For others, showing up to a 9am lecture they used to skip. My definition changed throughout my journey. For instance, from chasing top grades to simply learning how to balance my mental health, academics, and social life. I realised that everyone has their own timeline. Growth does not always look like a straight line. Sometimes, taking a break when things feel too much is okay, it does not mean you are weaker, or you are failing. The university helped me realise that success is not always visible, but it is indeed valuable. The moment you stop measuring your worth by someone else’s perspective is the moment you truly start owning your path.
Transitioning from a different education system, it was difficult to adapt to the UK’s emphasis on self-learning. At first, managing my study hours and understanding how to learn independently was a real challenge. But first year gives you the space to adjust and to figure
out your study habits, your time management, and how to stay organised. I eventually learned that I focus better on seminar work in the library or a café, but I prefer to revise in my room. Everyone is different, so take your time to discover what works for you.
During my first year, I became a member of the Spanish Society. Subsequently, I became a Student Ambassador, then a Global Ambassador. These positions helped me grow my confidence and where I met people from all over the world. I was nervous at first joining all of these different positions without knowing much. But saying yes to opportunities opened so many doors. If something interests you, go for it, even if it feels outside your comfort zone.
I have made remarkable and amazing friendships and have also distanced myself from people I once felt close to. That is part of the university experience. One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that it is okay to be alone. In fact, learning to enjoy your own company is empowering. Coming from a background where I moved countries and school often, I have realised that genuine friendships take time and that being emotionally independent is key to protecting your wellbeing.
Written by Jiaqian, a BSc International Management student at AMBS
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