Ladies, it’s 2013 and education has never looked so fabulous. If we girls are really going to define the decade then what better way to get where we need to be than via university? Fellow females fought for centuries to give us equal educational opportunities, and I am here to help you take advantage of the education you have earned.
My forte is Literature, and now that I’m almost through with one very manic fresher’s week I could not be more excited to dive straight into my course. I’m no longer at that teenage stage in my life where lessons are boring and homework is a drag. Now education is one of the most exciting aspects of my life; with a reading list that includes iconic authors from Jane Austen to Caryl Churchill, and entire modules dedicated to the female sex, it’s hard not to be inspired!
The University environment is filled with examples of successful women, so my brain is already bursting with ideas of what I could do after my degree. Having just met with one of my supervisors today, a kooky American Studies academic who was impressively passionate about her subject, I have even begun considering the career of a lecturer. There are also plenty of opportunities to prove yourself whilst still in education; just one walk around the society fair overwhelmed me with extra-curricular prospects. I think I may have overstepped the mark a bit by joining four different societies, but what is a driven girl to do when faced with so many chances to improve her abilities? For an aspiring writer like me, the university newspaper was a must, and who can resist the English society when they offer Sunday morning book club over cupcakes? For those looking for another outlet for their creativity follow my footsteps to the Drama club: I could never resist the stage! And last but not least there was Amnesty International; what could be more rewarding than helping to defend human rights? If you really need convincing have a read about Scriptoeris’ September Inspirational Individuals article on the incredible Malala Yousafzai, one girl who is unstoppable in her fight for women’s education.
Of course academia and societies are not the only way to make yourself a star on campus. Sports teams can provide both super-stardom and a great time! A flat mate of mine made it onto the second hockey team in the first week. Obviously this was mainly due to her immense hockey skills, but she largely improved her chances by attending their socials and a practice session even before she’d made the team. Remember, making that little bit more effort can help you to stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re a pro on the football field, or you just fancy learning a brand new sport, it does not hurt to be enthusiastic!
Let’s face it: education is empowering. There’s nothing quite like that feeling of knowing you have done yourself proud, and knowing you have gone that extra mile to get what you want. Never be afraid to do your thing. Just dive in Scriptoeris girls, the water is beautiful!