The UCAS system can be one of the most stressful experiences of your school career. That said, it also opens the doors to one of the most fantastic opportunities you could take up: university. As someone who went through the UCAS system not just once, but twice, here are my five top things to avoid while you’re applying for university.
1. Posting about the application process on social media
With so many people today sharing anything (and everything!) on social media, it can be so easy to get sucked in to sharing all of your university application news on social media. While it might be nice to get 100 likes on your status about getting an offer, or to get sympathy from people if you don’t, don’t forget that many of your friends will be going through this process too. Share your news with those you are close to, but don’t broadcast it!
2. Refreshing your emails
I’ve done it: sitting for 20 minutes constantly refreshing my emails in the hope that something will come through from UCAS. Driving yourself insane with waiting isn’t going to do you, or your A Level grades any good, so close that internet window and go do something else. Your emails will still be there when you get back!
3. Becoming complacent
One of the worst things you can do once you start to get offers through is to become complacent. Once you have an offer, if you’re applying while still at school you need to make sure that you get those grades. So go out and celebrate your offers, you deserve to, then use them as motivation to work hard!
4. Letting other people influence your choices too much
Obviously the opinions of your family, your teachers and maybe even your friends are important in the decisions you make about university. However, ultimately it is you that is going to spend the three years actually studying there. So make sure that deep down it is your decision.
5. Stressing yourself out, worrying and generally letting it take over your life
At the time, applying for university will seem like the most stressful thing you’ll ever have to experience. You’ll have ups and downs, celebrations and commiserations, and that’s all part of the process. But, don’t forget there is life outside of the application process. It will work out, or it won’t, and if it doesn’t there are always other options, so don’t panic, stay chilled, and make sure you enjoy the other things in life too!
What did you avoid during the university application period? Let us know in the comments below!
Photo: Jeremy Keith / Flickr
I’m a serial multi-tasker who loves having no spare time. Also an English Literature student.
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