UNIVERSITY SERIES, EPISODE ONE: A FRESHER’S FUMBLES

 Welcome, dears, to the start of a nostalgic journey through my university years! In this series, I'll be sharing a collection of stories and experiences that shaped me during those unforgettable times. So, join me as I recount the challenges, triumphs, and amusing moments of being a student.

 Let's begin with a tale that serves as a perfect introduction to the rollercoaster ride that is university life..." 

 Making the leap from secondary school to undergraduate life is a transformative experience, filled with anticipation, uncertainty, and a healthy dose of excitement. As I embarked on the journey to university, I couldn't help but reflect on the challenges that lay ahead.

 As my mother's daughter, she knew that my departure from home to school marked a significant milestone. After sharing hours of heartfelt advice, she concluded with the regular "I don’t have much to say but always remember where you are coming from and don't let us down." Her words resonated deeply within me, instilling a strong sense of purpose and determination. However, the initial fear that her words had instilled in me faded so quickly that I can't even recall when it vanished.

 ***

 On my first day, the first challenge was navigating public transportation. I took the wrong bus, ended up at incorrect stops, and paid extra fares for my error. The bus conductor's harsh words made me cry over something trivial, leaving sweet Lilian bitter about university life's realities. However, these tough experiences taught me resilience and adaptability, helping me find my way in a new environment.

 When I finally stepped onto campus, I felt like a lost puppy in a maze. I mean, I thought I was prepared, but I was wrong! The first thing that hit me was the sea of faces – so many people, all rushing to get somewhere! I wondered if I was the only one who had no clue what was going on. 

I clutched my admission letter like it was a treasure map, alongside the other way too many copies of my documents that I had photocopied due to misinformation—I even had up to 50 copies of my passport at one point! Even though it's been a few years, I still have a pile of those extra copies, which now serve as a funny reminder of the challenges we all face as we figure out university life together.

 

As I wandered, I stumbled upon a group of students who seemed to know what they were doing and where they were going. So, I approached one of them with a blend of curiosity and desperation, asking, "Excuse me, please, where is... uh... everywhere?" Lol.

 He chuckled and said, "Ah, fresher! Where exactly do you want to go?" ‘Faculty of Arts’, I responded and he pointed vaguely in some direction I nodded enthusiastically, and I decided to act as though I understood his instructions and followed them accordingly. However, it soon became apparent that I had mistakenly gone to the wrong faculty and found myself waiting in the incorrect line, which I only noticed after several minutes had passed. The frustration! 

Adjusting to university life proved challenging, especially since navigating new environments isn't my strong suit. I frequently found myself lost, even on my way to my house, submitting incorrect documents, and being reprimanded by staff members, especially non-academic staff (I’m sure we all have a story to tell about them). Asking questions was nerve-wracking, and I often called my mom for comfort, even crying over the smallest setbacks. We talked numerous times a day, and she empathized with my struggles.

 Living independently for the first time was a challenge since I couldn't secure campus housing. Staying alone brought unexpected issues; I didn't sleep in my bed for weeks due to mysterious sounds and shadows in my room and compound, I resorted to sleeping on the floor near the door in case I needed to escape quickly.

 

To add to my terror, the compound had a flickering security light that seemed straight out of those horror movies. This unstable, creepy light source only intensified my fear and anxiety, making me feel even more nervous in my already spooky living situation.

 Eventually, I realized that the apartment I had rented might have been haunted, adding a chilling and supernatural dimension to my university experience…

 …to be continued.

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                                                  ...Sweet Lilian