Ideas of adult life would be like VS actual adult life

I rarely call myself an adult. I still live at home with my parents, sleep with a cuddly toy and throw a tantrum if I'm over tired (or things don't go my way!)

However, when facing facts I'm 22, in a full time job and need to start thinking properly about my life! (I've had more quarter life crisis' in the last few months then I thought possible.)

Whether it's due to the fact that the economy is a lot different to when I was growing up or whether my parents did a much better job at pretending adult life was fun, things are definitely not how I thought they would.

When I was younger: By 22 I would've finished uni have a great job and be living in my own place.

Actual Life: I managed to finish uni, and find a job (which I know I'm incredibly lucky in doing), but I will probably be living with my parents for the best part of my twenties.
To be honest, I love my parents and don't actually mind living with them at all, but who knew houses were so expensive, and renting basically means it's even harder to save for a deposit. Also, you have to get a deposit then pay a mortgage, you don't just buy the house! Who knew?!?

When I was younger: I wish I was older so I can buy everything I want to.

Actual life: I wish I had more money so I can buy everything I want to.

When I was younger: Being able to drive is so cool, you can go anywhere.

Actual life: Being able to drive is so cool, and I can go anywhere, as long as I have enough petrol, and I've paid my car tax, and I've got enough money saved for my insurance. Oh what's that? I need new tyres? There goes my savings again.

When I was younger: I wish I got more post.

Actual life: Oh great, another bill, a leaflet, more bills, I'm entitled to a credit card.... more bills.

When I was younger: Eugh, coffee is gross.

Actual life: Eugh, coffee is gross.  

How to make the most out of your University experience

Whilst the start of term is well and truly underway now, I thought that today I'd impart some wisdom on you which I wish I could've told myself whilst I was at uni. So, whether you're a fresher just getting used to your new surrounding or a third year who thinks they've got things down, listen up!

Don't put all of your eggs in one basket: This can be for so many things, friendship groups, groups you sign up for, lectures, seminars, work experience etc... I'm really bad for staying in my comfort zone. I find it hard to juggle lots of different groups of friends, so whilst I uni I stuck to just one, which backfired as others started to fall out. It's important to talk to and be friends with as many people as possible. You grow up and change and uni and others do too. Picking lectures because you know the lecturer will pass you or because you remember the subject from A-Level won't stretch or challenge you, try something new!

Do ask for help when you need it: University is completely different from any other type of education, and I don't think you're prepared for it enough at school. It can be tricky and difficult to adapt, but rather than struggling in silence, find somebody to ask who can help you.

Don't forget to get a good nights sleep: Sleep is so important, and whilst going to bed at 3am and waking up at 3pm still gives you plenty of hours, it's going to be a real struggle once you're in the real world. Also, a snooze in the middle of a lecture is not classed as a good night sleep!

Do ensure you look for work and/or work experience: Everyone and their mother has a degree these days so it no longer sets you apart once you enter the world of work. Whilst it may not feel like it uni gives you the most free time you're ever going to have, make use of the days where you have no lectures and go get some experience. It will really help you once you leave.

Don't forget to enjoy it: Make the most of every opportunity presented to you, do as much as you can and make as many memories as possible. It's a once in a life time experience, make the most of it.

Laura