What is something you have learned about yourself since starting University?
Since commencing University, one thing I have learned about myself is just how much change I am capable of navigating. Transitioning from high school to university was a much bigger shift that I ever anticipated. I began my first year like everyone does —open-minded, motivated, and ready to tackle the workload. But I will say it hit me harder than I expected. The weekly academic demands piled up fast, with one missed lecture turning into ten in the span of a couple days! Juggling everything else on top of this, from work and college life to new friendships, socialising, and personal downtime was just overwhelming.
One of the hardest parts was trying to build and stick to a routine, and not in the sense that I lacked discipline, but more so about learning how to prioritise balance without burning myself out or neglecting my studies. The university lifestyle was completely different from what I had been used to for the past 18 years, and moving away from home added an entirely new layer of responsibility on top of that. Suddenly, it was all on me. I had to keep track of every class, every meeting, every commitment on my own. That level of independence was new, and honestly, it was pretty intimidating. But I liked the challenge and soon enough, I got familiar.
What no one really warns you about is Imposter Syndrome. I thought it might fade after first year—that I’d grow out of the self-doubt and constant comparisons. But the truth is, it never fully goes away. It lingers, especially on my worst days when everything feels like too much and the negativity starts to consume me. It’s that quiet voice convincing you that you’re not good enough, even when you are. Learning to manage that inner critic is still a work in progress, but at least now I can recognise that I’m learning. And that alone puts me a step ahead of where I was when I first began this journey.
Despite all that, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of being patient with myself. To actually listen to my body and honour the boundaries I know deep down I need—whether that’s getting a good night’s sleep instead of studying more or saying no to a night out. I have come to trust my own instincts when making decisions, even if that means letting go of the fear of disappointing others or caring about what people think. That’s a huge step for me.
When embarking on this next chapter in your life that is University, you will realise that growth often comes hand in hand with discomfort. And while it might sound cliché, you really do have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Change brings rejection, failure, and self-doubt—but also resilience, clarity and strength. Soon enough, you’ll realise that, yes—university can be some of the hardest years, especially as you try to settle into an unfamiliar environment far removed from everything you’ve ever known. But with that challenge comes incredible growth and maturity as we shape our path into early adulthood.
This journey has taught me that while university already demands so much of us, it is also full of moments that redefine who we are. It is the time to take risks, meet new people, and step outside of our comfort zone. It’s about showing up, even when every bone in your body is telling you to give up. In order to persevere, I really do have to remind myself that all of the blood, sweat and tears are slowly building towards becoming the best version of myself. And that, to me, is something truly invaluable.
In 2025 Emmanuel College is celebrating 50 years since women were admitted to the College. If you know of an inspirational female-identifying alumnus who you think should be featured, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at alumni@emmanuel.uq.edu.au.
