The end of the academic year typically comes with helpful reflections to guide your next steps. My overall experience of second year on the BSc Education course has been positive but when I started this academic year, I was initially nervous due to the online world typically labelling this year as a ‘step up’ from first year. So I was expecting to feel stressed and overwhelmed. But, I quickly learnt that stress can be dealt with, with the correct support and organisation. These all being pivotal reflections when approaching my third and final year.

Reflecting on Assignments

Assignments are sometimes a source of anxiety for students including myself. However, after completing the year and reflecting on how I engaged with these tasks, there are valuable lessons learnt.

Whilst assignment grades and outcomes can seem like the most important thing, there are other important aspects to think about. I found it useful to carefully utilise the class rubric and the feedback on assignments to find out the areas I was struggling in. This gave a clearer guide as to what I could work on in my study time. By the end of the year, I did notice improvement in my work and outcomes, demonstrating that focusing less on the grade or final mark, can be useful in focusing in other areas and generally reducing stress.

Further to this, another reflection that helped me complete this year was the importance of asking for help. Sometimes, asking questions can come as a struggle to some of us (which is okay!). But, I found putting myself out there and asking my tutors or Academic Advisor any queries to be incredibly helpful, not only in the assignment itself, but also in improving overall confidence in speaking up when I needed support.

Reflecting on Achievements

One of my proudest achievements was presenting my research proposal in the 2025 education conference ‘Education Matters’. As someone who does struggle with anxiety, the run up to the event became quite difficult. But, I persevered and presented my work. I found that my presentation became easier to handle as I spoke and interacted with attendees. Which made me realise that it was because I felt passionate about my work and took pride in sharing it. So, engaging in discussion about the topic eased my nerves completely. This being something I will carry with me in future events. Creating work you feel passionate about can be vital and rewarding!

A second achievement this year was working as a volunteer mentor with the local charity ‘Reach Out’. This contributed to my 40 hour placement unit on my course. However, I also volunteered during my first year, resulting in an award from the charity for how many hours I had completed. Reflecting on this experience has shown me how important taking opportunities is, in order to have a greater sense of community whilst also improving skills that can also benefit your own progression.

Final reflections

Overall, this year has been a success. I would confidently say that the opportunities presented this year such as the academic conference and volunteering have improved my overall experience. Going into my final year I would say a goal of mine is to try out more clubs or societies. Another reflection being that I could’ve utilised more of the university’s resources on offer to students. Therefore, trying out a society would be a good way of combating stress, having more social interactions whilst relaxing and doing something I enjoy.

Written by Olivia, a current BSc Education student

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