Coping with Student Lockdown
Uni looks a little different this year. For the first time in my educational career, I’ve just completed a week of lectures entirely online. It’s been quite fun though to be honest, I’ve been able to listen along from the shower and from the kitchen whilst making fancy brunches – I’ve enjoyed it. However, I know full well that the year ahead is about to be a tough one, and one that will be so much more demanding on us as students than ever before. So, as I’ve been bracing myself for what’s to come, I’ve been trying to put myself in the best possible position to face this unprecedented, new normal and I think the most important thing we need to do is to be proactive.
For most of us, uni is the biggest opportunity we have had yet to really reinvent ourself and we have the freedom to truly be and do whatever we want. So, go for it! Sports, arts, languages, anything that you’ve ever fancied trying - just do it! You’ve probably never had so much time, or money, or resources so I would really encourage you to make the most of it. In the current coronavirus climate, stepping out and joining societies that offer these opportunities is going to take a lot more courage than normal, but it will be so worth it. You will meet people that you will know forever and discover skills and talents you never realised you had.
One society that I would really recommend getting involved with is the Christian Union. It’s something that I never planned to get involved with when moving to uni but hear me out. As soon as meeting them I realised its importance and the community was so helpful in a time of such sudden change. You will meet a family of students who simply want the best for you and want to help your transition into university life be as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Among lockdowns and self-isolation, they are still active and still waiting to meet you, whether you’re Christian or not.
But above that, I truly believe finding and joining a church when starting uni is vital. Christian Union is a great way to discover churches and find out how best to join a church community during COVID. To be fuelled by worship and teaching that directs you towards Jesus is so important and doing so among a student community is just so fun. Furthermore, being able to meet families and older Christians that can take you in and encourage and support and disciple you is so good!
The university experience is incredible, and I promise you’re going to have the best time and there are people praying for you that you probably don’t even know! Step out of your comfort zone and watch yourself become the person you’ve always wanted to be.