When you reach university, typically, that will be a period of your life when you’re given more independence. That may seem overwhelming to some people, but there's not much difference for others who already grew up doing things independently. Me? I already had a good handle on basic labor, including cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc. However, I dreaded going to public areas, like grocery shopping alone. It wasn’t the task itself but the idea of being alone in an environment where I was used to having someone with me. Luckily, I was comfortable enough to make it a routine once I went by myself several times. In this blog, I want to share why independence is essential, especially during university! 

Develop Essential Skills

University allows you to develop valuable life skills. Whether you’re living at home or on campus, it can teach you to manage your time effectively, think critically, and become self-motivated. Outside of and within your academics, university life can provide you with these critical skills, which will be beneficial once you’ve finished your education. Not only will this help you while you’ve entered the workforce, but it will also help you establish relationships and improve overall well-being. 

Improves Academic Performance

During university, a lot of independent learning is involved. This allows students to have a more active role in their education, where they can adopt their study routines and better understand how they best thrive in an educational setting. Independence can encourage students to find their strengths and weaknesses and adjust their learning strategies to help them improve their performance.

Prepares You For Adulthood 

I like to think that university is also a step toward adulthood. You must take more responsibility for your academics, finances, and social life. Developing independence during this period will provide you with the skills needed to help you navigate life once you’ve completed university. By doing so, adulthood won’t seem as jarring as society makes it out to be. 

Getting You Out of Your Comfort Zone 

I know it can seem scary to have to do things on your own. This may be an uncomfortable change for you, especially if you are so used to depending on your parents/guardians. However, I think that becoming independent during university opened up many opportunities for me. I am incredibly grateful to have stepped outside my comfort zone because if I had not, I would not have been as involved in my campus community and gained valuable friendships. 

I hope you take from this blog that this is all a process. Growing up can seem scary, but rather than dreading it, consider ways to elevate and improve your life to give yourself an optimal university experience. Also, it's okay to lean on someone now and then. That's what's so special about our connections with family and friends. But also recognize where to set boundaries to ensure you can thrive with or without them.

Good luck!