Hey, guys, it's Maro here. And today I'm going to be talking about my experience moving to new city for University, as well as give you guys some tips on how to cope. Moving to Birmingham for university has honestly been such an amazing experience because I've grown, I've grown a lot and I've also learnt so much about myself as well. I remember when I first came to the city, I was so excited, guys, because it was like a new adventure, you know, I was excited about all the new things I'd experience and the new people and meet. But then also, I was really nervous because it was my first time living away from home and I didn't really know anybody. And honestly, I just don't really know what to expect. But what helped me cope on my first it is research before coming to university. And another tip is doing a dummy run. So exploring Birmingham before coming to university because it just gives you a chance to take a look around, you know, walk around campus, see how far away is from the station. It also gives you the opportunity to physically look at the accommodations and just really get a feel of the city and accommodation you're going to be living in. I have discovered quite a few things, I discovered that it has the largest public library in Europe, and it has the most beautiful canals. And apparently Birmingham has more canals then Venice. Take this opportunity to explore restaurants and experiences that may not be available in your home town or city. I went to the Alexandra Theatre, to Getto Golf, in the Custard Factory, and around that area there are cocktail bars and arcades. I went to the National Sealife Centre, which is so cool because you can see penguins and like sharks and fish. I also went to the Frankfurt or German Christmas market, which was so nice. Everyone was in a Christmassy mood. There were stalls. It was just so lovely. I ate at an Eritrean restaurant for the first time. Moving to a new city, it really forces you to explore and communicate with new people because if you're lost, you're going to have to ask somebody for help, and that is a great way to spark a conversation. My next tip on surviving moving to a new city is make friends on your course. In first year, after the first day of lectures, my course mates and I had lunch at the Eagle and Ball, which is just lovely because it's just a lovely way to break the ice and get to know the people you're going to be working with throughout the three years. Another tip I give is connecting with people via social media before coming to university. So on Facebook, on WhatsApp there are university accommodation and course groups and group chats. Going into second year this is something I did and I met the most amazing friend this way. My next tip is in regards to keep in safe. So the first thing I'd say is guys, please don't get too drunk, know your limits and don't cave into peer pressure. Also, another thing that makes me feel just that tiny bit safer is if I do have to walk home alone, I will just invest in taking the Uber and send my location to a loved one so that they know where I am. If you're staying at home in your accommodation feeling sorry for yourself and your friend texts 'hey, do you want to go grocery shopping or you want to go to town?' Say yes. Join societies so you can meet like minded people. Find a church, something that I really recommend is if you do go to a church back home, find one a university because it is really easy to lose yourself and is a great way to stay grounded. Also, guys get involved in events. A great event to go to is of course the Freshers Fair, which guys I love. You can join societies, you can get so many discounts. You get free pizza, you get Megabus discounts, gym discounts, experiences like escape room discounts, club discounts. It's just a great way to get free things and to socialise as well. Take time to do what you love, dance, play music, that's something I did so much because it just it just allows you to transform and forget about all your worries. Paint, cook, whatever you find fun, do that. Meditate, do yoga. Also keep active, there are at home workout videos you can find on YouTube. Take a jog or walk, go to the gym, just anything to keep your body moving. I would also advise reaching out BCU has Student Support Services. Reach out to your flatmates, your friends, and you'll be surprised at how many people are actually feeling the same way you're feeling. Thank you so much guys for watching. I hope you liked the video, bye!
