My First Day At University Essay 1000 Words

My First Day At University Essay 1000 Words, My first day at university was associated with a wide variety of feelings, including nervousness and excitement. Even though I had lived away from home for a while, I still made a point of seeing my parents around the holidays.

The realization that I would be living away from home hit me like a tonne of bricks, and I was simultaneously terrified and excited to live independently while attending school. 

All of my high school worries returned as soon as I set foot on the campus of my college. It was already scorching outside around nine in the morning. On either side of a long, winding route that sliced through dense grass, the trees were arrayed like soldiers.

It appeared that everyone on campus had somewhere to be except for me as the leaves fluttered and danced as if they were in a hurry to reach somewhere significant.

I began to consider how much more responsibility being a college student would entail for me as I made my way deeper into campus because, for the first time in my life, there would be no one else to blame if something went wrong.

Thinking about this, I suddenly made the decision to look for my dorm. I felt like everyone was looking at me as I walked across campus in search of my dorm, and I could see the reddening of my face. Everyone around me looked exactly like me, but more self-assured, as I walked along a different hallway with people passing by.

I didn’t even sure which building to enter to find my accommodation; it appeared like everyone else knew where they were going except me. I eventually found it after going through a few different buildings!

I entered after noticing two strangers conversing on their mattresses since the number on my door matched the one on my paper.

When they saw me walk in, they stopped talking and gave me an odd look. One of them inquired about my questions and then informed me that she would shortly be going because she had class. When everyone finally left the class, I was left alone, so I made the decision to go.

Table of Contents

My First Day At University  Essay 1000 Words From Day 1

1st day at university:.

On my first day at university, I spoke with a number of new people. Most of them were friendly and supportive. I appreciated the chance to learn more about what they do at work, their friends, etc. during lunch with them. I was excited to soon meet more folks and make friends here!

My First Day at university PDF:

My First Day At University Essay 1000 Words usually started with a memorable introduction. I have never really been interested in going to university or even going to college, as far back as I can remember.

  • I never ever considered going to university for a long time, much less choosing to stay for four years without any intention of completing any other kind of education or training.
  • Having said that, nothing compares to your first day at university, and you’ll probably never experience as many feelings and thoughts in your life in such a brief amount of time.
  • But when it comes down to it, I can honestly say that my first day was one of the best days I have ever had.

Fresher week:

Freshman week and the beginning of independence are two terms used to describe the first day of university. After two years in college, most students don’t feel like freshmen anymore.

However, if you entered as a freshman, you might claim to have just been a newcomer for a year. And this is why: As soon as I set foot on that university campus, my life underwent a significant change.

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All around me seemed new and strange to me, with the exception of my roommate from the previous semester.

University memories:

My first day at university seems like it was yesterday in my memory, but time has flown by so quickly. I’ve changed so much as a person now that I am an upper-class man and have lived in dorms for four years, among other experiences, that it almost seems impossible for me to be the person looking back on all of these experiences.

With a gasp, I awoke. For a brief period, I had no idea where I was; after that, my memories suddenly came back to me. Ah, sure. It ended here! I was prepared to start classes that morning after waking up in my dorm room.

Conclusion:

My First Day At University Essay 1000 Words was wonderful. I just want to say that university is a phase where you can make your career and find several new opportunities. Therefore, university life is best and it will remain in your memory the most.

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My First Day at University: Narrative Essay

The first day at university marks the beginning of a new chapter in life, filled with excitement, anticipation, and a hint of nervousness. It’s a day that symbolizes new beginnings, fresh starts, and endless possibilities. In this narrative essay, I will recount the experiences of my first day at university, from the nervous excitement before to the exhilarating moments that followed. Stepping onto the university campus for the first time was a whirlwind of emotions. Excitement bubbled within me as I imagined the new friends I’d make and the knowledge I’d gain. In this essay, I’ll share the story of my first day at university, from the excitement before to the experiences that unfolded.

Getting Ready and Feeling Excited

In the days leading up to my first day, I was a jumble of emotions—nervous yet thrilled, anxious yet excited. The prospect of embarking on this new chapter in my life filled me with a sense of anticipation unlike anything I had ever experienced before.

I dedicated hours to preparing for the big day. I meticulously planned my schedule, making sure I had everything in order. I went over my checklist again and again, ensuring that I had all the necessary books and supplies. Each item I ticked off the list brought me one step closer to being ready.

Arriving on Campus

On the morning of my first day, I arrived on campus early, eager to begin this new adventure. The campus was buzzing with activity, and I felt a sense of belonging as I joined other students in orientation sessions and explored the campus.

As I walked around, I was impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities, from the well-equipped libraries to the modern lecture halls. Everything was designed to support students in their academic journey, and I felt reassured knowing that I had access to such excellent resources.

Orientation and Welcoming Atmosphere

During orientation, I was introduced to the university’s facilities and services, which helped ease my nerves. I also had the chance to meet other students and begin forming friendships that would last throughout my university years.

One of the highlights of orientation was meeting other students who were also starting their university journey. We bonded over our shared excitement and nerves, and before long, we were chatting and laughing as if we had known each other for years. These early friendships would prove to be invaluable throughout my university years, providing support, friendship, and a sense of belonging.

Making Connections  Settling In and Finding My Way

Throughout the day, I engaged in conversations with my fellow students, exchanging stories and experiences. These initial interactions played a crucial role in helping me feel more comfortable and enthusiastic about the journey ahead. The shared laughter and companionship we experienced during these conversations created a sense of belonging and anticipation for the friendships that would blossom in the coming years. These interactions also helped me realize that I was not alone in my feelings of excitement and nervousness; we were all embarking on this new adventure together. By the end of the day, I felt a renewed sense of confidence and excitement about the experiences that lay ahead, knowing that I had already formed connections that would accompany me on this journey.

Settling In and Finding My Way Lessons Learned

Throughout the day, I attended my first classes, immersing myself in the academic side of university life. The workload was challenging, but I was eager to learn and grow. The professors were engaging, and the material was fascinating. I felt a sense of accomplishment as I completed my assignments and participated in class discussions. These early experiences reinforced my excitement about my chosen field of study and motivated me to excel in my academic pursuits.

Lessons Learned

Thinking back to my first day, I realize how much I’ve learned and grown already. I learned to accept change and try new things, which made me feel more independent and sure of myself. This experience has helped me become more confident and able to handle new challenges. Each day brings something new, and I’m grateful for the chance to learn and grow even more.

Excitement for the Future

Conclusion:.

My first day at university was a mix of emotions, but it was also a day filled with excitement, new beginnings, and endless possibilities. As I continue my journey, I’m grateful for the experiences that have shaped me and excited for all that lies ahead.

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Narrative essay My first day at the University

Narrative essay: My first day at the University

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The 2nd of march, 2015 year was the day that helped me to overcome one of my greatest fears. This was my first day at one of the most prestigious universities in Uzbekistan and nothing was familiar. I had just entered the doors of INHA University and started my life-changing journey.

I was trying to find the lecture room, but eventually I got lost in the labyrinth of the majestic building. I was embarrassed and many questions were running in my head. Where was my class? Where was the professor’s room? How should I behave with new classmates? However, all this questions were minor in comparison with my main fear. I began to panic.

From my earliest childhood, I was introvert. Therefore, I was afraid of talking to new people because I might look foolish and embarrass myself or just because I thought that, I could do everything by myself. In addition, by reason of nervousness I could start to stammer. Anyway, I had to find someone to help me because I could not be late for the first lesson!

Scraps of foreign speech were traveling from the room at the end of long corridor. Gathering courage, I decided to enter that room and ask for the help. Fortunately, a passing manager asked me if I have problems and kindly offered to accompany me to the classroom.

In a minute, we took a lift and I was on the threshold of the auditorium. To make a step forward was the most difficult action because the noisy classroom was full of new faces. Almost all places were occupied and I sat at the end of the row. In 5 minutes, the calculus professor Lee Yoon Weon came and silence reigned. Subject was not simple, but that was just a starter. I faced some difficulties related to educational process, but my classmates were very kind and were ready to help me at any time. Thereby I made new acquaintances. By the end of the day, I had learnt a lesson.

After the first day at INHA University, I understood that all problems can/could be solved much faster and easier, when you have a supporter. People around us not angry and always willing to help, just forget about your fears and make step forward to them!

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Sentence: However, all this questions were minor in comparison with my main fear. Description: A determiner/pronoun, singular is not usually followed by a noun, plural, common Suggestion: Refer to this and questions

People around us not angry People around us are not angry

Attribute Value Ideal Score: 4.0 out of 6 Category: Good Excellent No. of Grammatical Errors: 2 2 No. of Spelling Errors: 0 2 No. of Sentences: 27 15 No. of Words: 384 350 No. of Characters: 1678 1500 No. of Different Words: 203 200 Fourth Root of Number of Words: 4.427 4.7 Average Word Length: 4.37 4.6 Word Length SD: 2.569 2.4 No. of Words greater than 5 chars: 109 100 No. of Words greater than 6 chars: 81 80 No. of Words greater than 7 chars: 48 40 No. of Words greater than 8 chars: 36 20 Use of Passive Voice (%): 0 0 Avg. Sentence Length: 14.222 21.0 Sentence Length SD: 6.5 7.5 Use of Discourse Markers (%): 0.37 0.12 Sentence-Text Coherence: 0.308 0.35 Sentence-Para Coherence: 0.511 0.50 Sentence-Sentence Coherence: 0.106 0.07 Number of Paragraphs: 6 5

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How can I write an essay about my first semester at BIGA COLLEGE OF EDUCATION.

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Essay on My First Day at College

Students are often asked to write an essay on My First Day at College in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My First Day at College

Anticipation and excitement.

My first day at college was filled with a mix of anticipation and excitement. I was eager to meet my new classmates, learn from experienced professors, and explore the vast campus.

Class Introduction

The day began with a class introduction. I was nervous but soon found myself chatting with fellow students, sharing our dreams and aspirations.

First Lecture

The first lecture was intriguing. It was different from school, more interactive and engaging. I could feel the academic rigor and was thrilled.

Exploring the Campus

Post-classes, I explored the campus, discovering libraries, cafeterias, and the beautiful green spaces. It was an enriching and memorable day.

250 Words Essay on My First Day at College

The anticipation of a new beginning.

The day I had been waiting for had finally arrived – my first day at college. The blend of excitement, nervousness, and anticipation was a unique emotional cocktail. I had spent my entire summer imagining what this day would be like, but reality was about to exceed my expectations.

Embracing the Unknown

Walking through the grand entrance, I was immediately struck by the sheer size of the campus. The hustle and bustle of students rushing to classes, the diversity of faces, and the grandeur of the architecture made my high school seem like a distant memory. I felt like a small fish in a vast ocean, ready to explore the unknown.

Breaking the Ice

As I entered my first class, the room filled with unfamiliar faces, I felt a twinge of anxiety. However, the ice-breaking session, designed to introduce us to each other, eased my nerves. We shared our backgrounds, interests, and aspirations. It was a comforting reminder that we were all in the same boat, navigating the waters of this new life together.

Lessons Beyond the Classroom

The rest of the day was a flurry of lectures, introductions, and tours. But the most profound lesson I learned was not academic. It was the realization that college was not just about acquiring knowledge, but also about learning to adapt, making connections, and growing as an individual.

My first day at college was a whirlwind of emotions and experiences. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life, a chapter filled with opportunities, challenges, and the promise of growth. As I walked back to my dorm that evening, I knew I was ready to embrace this new journey with open arms.

500 Words Essay on My First Day at College

Anticipation and apprehension.

The transition from high school to college is a significant milestone in a student’s life. My first day at college was an amalgamation of emotions ranging from anticipation to apprehension. I was stepping into an environment that promised intellectual growth, new friendships, and a journey towards self-discovery.

The New Academic Culture

As I walked through the gates of my college, I was immediately struck by the sheer diversity of the student body. The campus was teeming with students from different backgrounds, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. This was a stark contrast to my high school, where the student population was relatively homogeneous.

My first class was an introduction to philosophy. The professor, a renowned scholar in his field, challenged us to question our beliefs and assumptions. The class was interactive, and students were encouraged to voice their opinions. This was a departure from the rote learning methods I was accustomed to in high school. The emphasis was on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in the real world.

Building New Relationships

Another significant aspect of my first day was the opportunity to forge new relationships. I met my roommate, a friendly person from a different city. We found common ground in our shared love for music and literature. The day was also filled with introductions to future classmates, professors, and administrative staff. Each interaction was a step towards building a network that would support me throughout my college journey.

Extracurricular Activities

The college also showcased a plethora of extracurricular activities. The clubs ranged from debate societies to sports teams, each offering a platform to pursue passions outside the academic realm. I was particularly drawn to the student-run newspaper, seeing it as an opportunity to hone my writing skills and stay informed about campus affairs.

Embracing Independence

Perhaps the most profound aspect of my first day at college was the sense of independence. For the first time, I was responsible for my schedule, managing my time between classes, extracurricular activities, and personal time. This newfound freedom was both exciting and daunting. It signified the beginning of my journey towards becoming a self-reliant individual.

My first day at college was a whirlwind of new experiences, filled with anticipation, excitement, and a bit of nervousness. It marked the beginning of a transformative journey, a journey that would shape my intellectual growth, personal development, and prepare me for the challenges of the future. As I reflect on that day, I realize that it was not just about the start of my college education, but also about the start of a new chapter in my life, one that would be filled with opportunities, challenges, and lifelong learning.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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MY FIRST DAYS IN THE UNIVERSITY: BY OWHORHU JOSEPH SOLOMON

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3.3: Narrative Essays

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  • Georgia Perimeter College via GALILEO Open Learning Materials

Writing a Narrative Essay

Once you have a general idea of what you will be writing about, you should sketch out the major events of the story that will constitute your plot. Typically, these events will be revealed chronologically and climax at a central conflict that must be resolved by the end of the story, although you might consider using a flash-forward or flash-back for dramatic effect. The use of vivid details is crucial as you describe the events and characters in your narrative. You want the reader to emotionally engage with the world that you create in writing. To create strong details, keep the human senses in mind. You want your reader to be immersed in the world that you create, so focus on details related to sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch as you describe people, places, and events in your narrative. As always, it is important to start with a strong introduction to hook your reader into wanting to read more. Try opening the essay with an event that is interesting to introduce the story and get it going. Finally, your conclusion should help resolve the central conflict of the story and impress upon your reader the ultimate theme of the piece. See the student and professional essays to read sample narratives.

Sample Narrative Essays

My College Education

The first class I went to in college was philosophy, and it changed my life forever. Our first assignment was to write a short response paper to the Albert Camus essay “The Myth of Sisyphus.” I was extremely nervous about the assignment as well as college. However, through all the confusion in philosophy class, many of my questions about life were answered.

I entered college intending to earn a degree in engineering. I always liked the way mathematics had right and wrong answers. I understood the logic and was very good at it. So when I received my first philosophy assignment that asked me to write my interpretation of the Camus essay, I was instantly confused. What is the right way to do this assignment, I wondered? I was nervous about writing an incorrect interpretation and did not want to get my first assignment wrong. Even more troubling was that the professor refused to give us any guidelines on what he was looking for; he gave us total freedom. He simply said, “I want to see what you come up with.”

Full of anxiety, I first set out to read Camus’s essay several times to make sure I really knew what was it was about. I did my best to take careful notes. Yet even after I took all these notes and knew the essay inside and out, I still did not know the right answer. What was my interpretation? I could think of a million different ways to interpret the essay, but which one was my professor looking for? In math class, I was used to examples and explanations of solutions. This assignment gave me nothing; I was completely on my own to come up with my individual interpretation.

Next, when I sat down to write, the words just did not come to me. My notes and ideas were all present, but the words were lost. I decided to try every prewriting strategy I could find. I brainstormed, made idea maps, and even wrote an outline. Eventually, after a lot of stress, my ideas became more organized and the words fell on the page. I had my interpretation of “The Myth of Sisyphus,” and I had my main reasons for interpreting the essay. I remember being unsure of myself, wondering if what I was saying made sense, or if I was even on the right track. Through all the uncertainty, I continued writing the best I could. I finished the conclusion paragraph, had my spouse proofread it for errors, and turned it in the next day simply hoping for the best.

Then, a week or two later, came judgment day. The professor gave our papers back to us with grades and comments. I remember feeling simultaneously afraid and eager to get the paper back in my hands. It turned out, however, that I had nothing to worry about. The professor gave me an A on the paper, and his notes suggested that I wrote an effective essay overall. He wrote that my reading of the essay was very original and that my thoughts were well organized. My relief and newfound confidence upon reading his comments could not be overstated.

What I learned through this process extended well beyond how to write a college paper. I learned to be open to new challenges. I never expected to enjoy a philosophy class and always expected to be a math and science person. This class and assignment, however, gave me the self-confidence, critical-thinking skills, and courage to try a new career path. I left engineering and went on to study law and eventually became a lawyer. More important, that class and paper helped me understand education differently. Instead of seeing college as a direct stepping stone to a career, I learned to see college as a place to first learn and then seek a career or enhance an existing career. By giving me the space to express my own interpretation and to argue for my own values, my philosophy class taught me the importance of education for education’s sake. That realization continues to pay dividends every day.

Sample Student Essay

One type of narrative essay you may have reason to write is a Personal Statement. Many colleges and universities ask for a Personal Statement Essay for students who are applying for admission, to transfer, or for scholarships. Generally, a Personal Statement asks you to respond to a specific prompt, most often asking you to describe a significant life event, a personality trait, or a goal or principle that motivates or inspires you. Personal Statements are essentially narrative essays with a particular focus on the writer’s personal life. The following essay was responding to the prompt: “Write about an experience that made you aware of a skill or strength you possess.” As you read, pay attention to the way the writer gets your attention with a strong opening, uses vivid details and a chronological narrative to tell his story, and links back to the prompt in the conclusion.

Alen Abramyan

Professor Jones

English 1101

In the Middle of Nowhere Fighting Adversity.

A three-punch combination had me seeing stars. Blood started to rush down my nose. The Russian trainers quietly whispered to one another. I knew right away that my nose was broken. Was this the end of my journey; or was I about to face adversity?

Ever since I was seven years old, I trained myself in, “The Art of Boxing.” While most of the kids were out playing fun games and hanging out with their friends, I was in a damp, sweat-filled gym. My path was set to be a difficult one. Blood, sweat, and, tears were going to be an everyday occurrence.

At a very young age I learned the meaning of hard work and dedication. Most kids jumped from one activity to the next. Some quit because it was too hard; others quit because they were too bored. My father pointed this out to me on many occasions. Adults would ask my father,” why do you let your son box? It’s such a dangerous sport, he could get hurt.” My father always replied, “Everyone is going to get hurt in their lives, physically, mentally and emotionally. I'm making sure he's ready for the challenges he's going to face as a man.” I always felt strong after hearing my father speak that way about me. I was a boy being shaped into a man, what a great feeling it was.

Year after year, I participated in boxing tournaments across the U.S. As the years went by, the work ethic and strength of character my father and coaches instilled in me, were starting to take shape. I began applying the hard work and dedication I learned in boxing, to my everyday life. I realized that when times were tough and challenges presented themselves, I wouldn't back down, I would become stronger. This confidence I had in myself, gave me the strength to pursue my boxing career in Russia.

I traveled to Russia to compete in Amateur Boxing. Tournament after tournament I came closer to my goal of making the Russian Olympic Boxing team. After successfully winning the Kaliningrad regional tournament, I began training for the Northwest Championships. This would include boxers from St. Petersburg, Pskov, Kursk and many other powerful boxing cities.

We had to prepare for a tough tournament, and that’s what we did. While sparring one week before the tournament, I was caught by a strong punch combination to the nose. I knew right away it was serious. Blood began rushing down my face, as I noticed the coaches whispering to each other. They walked into my corner and examined my nose,” yeah, it’s broken,” Yuri Ivonovich yelled out. I was asked to clean up and to meet them in their office. I walked in to the Boxing Federation office after a quick shower. I knew right away, they wanted to replace me for the upcoming tournament. “We’re investing a lot of money on you boxers and we expect good results. Why should we risk taking you with a broken nose?” Yuri Ivonovich asked me. I replied, “I traveled half-way around the world to be here, this injury isn’t a problem for me.” And by the look on my face they were convinced, they handed me my train ticket and wished me luck.

The train came to a screeching halt, shaking all the passengers awake. I glanced out my window, “Welcome to Cherepovets,” the sign read. In the background I saw a horrific skyline of smokestacks, coughing out thick black smoke. Arriving in the city, we went straight to the weigh ins. Hundreds of boxers, all from many cities were there. The brackets were set up shortly after the weigh ins. In the Super Heavyweight division, I found out I had 4 fights to compete in, each increasing in difficulty. My first match, I made sure not a punch would land; this was true for the next two fights. Winning all three 6-0, 8-0 and 7-0 respectively. It looked like I was close to winning the whole tournament. For the finals I was to fight the National Olympic Hope Champion.

The night before the finals was coincidentally the 200th anniversary of the city. All night by my hotel, I heard screams of laughter and partying. I couldn’t sleep a wink. The morning of the fight I was exhausted but anxious. I stepped into the ring knowing that I was tired. I fell behind in points quickly in the first round. I felt as if I were dreaming, with no control of the situation. I was going along for the ride and it wasn't pleasant. At the end of the second round, the coach informed me that I was far behind. “You’re asleep in there,” he yelled out to me, confirming how I felt. I knew this was my last chance; I had to give it my all. I mustered up enough strength to have an amazing round. It was as if I stepped out and a fresh boxer stepped in. I glanced at my coaches and see a look of approval. No matter the outcome, I felt that I had defeated adversity. My opponent’s hand was raised; he won a close decision, 6-5. After I got back to my hotel, I remembered Yuri Ivonovich telling me they expected good results. “How were my results,” I asked myself. In my mind, the results were great, with a broken nose and with no sleep, I came one point shy of defeating the National Olympic Hope Champion.

Even from a very young age, I knew that when my back was against the wall and adversity was knocking on my door, I would never back down. I became a stronger person, a trait my family made sure I would carry into my adult years. No matter what I’m striving for; getting into a University; receiving a scholarship; or applying for a job, I can proudly say to myself, I am Alen Abramyan and adversity is no match for me.

External Links

“ Sixty-nine Cents ” ( https://tinyurl.com/ybjasq9c ) by Gary Shteyngart: In “Sixty-nine Cents,” author Gary Shteyngart describes a coming-of-age experience as a first-generation Russian-Jewish immigrant in modern America.

Sherman Alexie grew up on the Spokane Reservation in Washington State. He chronicles his challenges in school, starting in first grade, in Indian Education ( https://tinyurl.com/hlshngr ).

Sandra Cisneros offers an example of a narrative essay in “ Only Daughter ” ( https://tinyurl.com/y7hzxhz6 ) that captures her sense of her Chicana-Mexican heritage as the only daughter in a family of seven children. 

Annie Dilliard offers an example of a narrative essay in an excerpt, often entitled “ The Chase ” ( https://tinyurl.com/y7udsl88 ) from her autobiography An American Childhood , outlining a specific memorable event from her childhood.

Contributors and Attributions  

Adapted from  Successful College Composition (Crowther et al.) . Sourced from  LibreTexts , licensed under  CC BY-NC-SA  .

Adapted from  Let's Get Writing (Browning, DeVries, Boylan, Kurtz and Burton) . Sourced from  LibreTexts , licensed under  CC BY-NC-SA  .

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'One day at a time': My first days at university

A University of Bristol student from New York shares her experience of her first few days in the UK...

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We have another new student blogger, also from the   University of Bristol . Her name is Emilia Morano-Williams, and she comes to us from the US. She is currently a fourth year Italian student, originally from New York. In her first entry she takes us back to her first few weeks in Bristol, including the attention her accent attracted, and more....

'I had seen Bristol a couple of times before I arrived there for university, but, from the moment I landed in Heathrow, I could tell that this time would be different. There was no return ticket, there was no easy lifting the suitcase and there was no way to enter the country without having my fingerprints scanned. I was here as more than a tourist, I was here to live.

Things have changed a lot since then, but my first few days in  Bristol  as a student have become the benchmark by which I measure how much I’ve grown since arriving at university. The awkward exchanges with possible friends, the blank room with a single university-issued poster hanging on the wall and even the frequent inability to eat this completely foreign food felt all encompassing back then. Little did I know that all those funny moments wouldn’t last.

I moved into halls much like the other students. My parents and I arrived with a couple suitcases at Churchill Hall in Bristol and walked into the painfully bare room. Within a few minutes everything was out and had a place. I had barely any belongings and my room resembled a bare Travelodge rather than a place in which I would be spending my first year of university. I glanced out onto the quad, a unique feature of my hall, and saw the other students moving in box after box. Could I ever forget the kid who brought his own television or a box of beer? Nope, not yet anyway.

Of course, the first day all passes in the longest whirlwind of your life. Soon my parents left and I went to say hi to the other students who I could see and hear chatting happily from my window. Once I said hi and began meeting people, it was easy to keep going. People heard my accent from the moment I began speaking and, just like that, we had a conversation going. There seemed to be a shockingly large amount of people who knew each other already, but I just shrugged it off with a smile that’s largeness probably betrayed the nerves that I felt.

Things got easier and harder after the first day. My first week of university life fell into the predictable pattern of attending induction talks, getting lost wandering around the university, trying to make friends and figuring out where to find the most basic of items. All of a sudden extension cords, mouthwash and folders became exotic items. When I wake up the first morning, I made the mistake of counting how many days until Christmas break would begin.  In that moment, as the fear of spending ninety days away from home hit me, I learnt the most important lesson of my university career: take it one day at a time. I’ve been living peacefully with that mindset ever since.

During the first few weeks, I was hyper aware of not wanting to seem too foreign. All my images of international students came from movies and television shows where they were put into the corner and observed as if their culture was so completely different. Yet, I soon realized that because I was fortunate enough to speak English as a first language and to have spent many months travelling through England before arriving at university, the cultural differences weren’t as stark as I expected them to be. People would ask me questions about where I came from, but when we discovered common interests, those queries quickly gave way to other topics. If people thought of me as foreign, they certainly didn’t show that. I soon began to stop thinking of myself as foreign and just thought of myself as a Bristol student.  Sure, it was hard when I talked to friends back home who were pleasantly ticking off all the required college experiences and got to go home at the weekend, but living abroad became less about being an American in a new country and turned into me having new experiences.

For me, the social and cultural struggles of arriving at university occupied more of my mental space than academic issues. I found it relatively easy to integrate into new classes and soon began to enjoy my schedule. The beginning of university is difficult for everyone, but as an international student it can be easy to think that you are the only one experiencing these issues because you are international. I didn’t realize it until later in the year, but everyone was struggling with the shift to university in their own way. It’s a culture shock to everyone; we just experience it in different ways.'

Interested in studying at the University of Bristol ? Read more about the University , watch their video, and browse the many courses they offer.

If you enjoyed this blog entry, read more posts by Emilia  as she navigates life in the UK as an international student.

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37 Student Narrative Essay Examples

The pot calling the kettle black….

“You aren’t acting normal,” my dad said with a dopy, concerned look on his face. He was a hard-working, soft and loving man. He was smaller than my mother, physically and figuratively. She sat beside him. She had a towering stature, with strong, swimmers’ shoulders, but she was hunched often. She didn’t really have eyebrows, but she didn’t need them. She had no problem conveying emotion on her face, especially negative ones.

“What’s wrong?” my mother asked. She took my hand frantically. Not the way one might take someone’s hand to connect with or comfort them. She needed reassurance more than I did.

My parents were sitting across from me on cushioned, bland-colored chairs in my dad’s office, while I sat on a rickety, torturous wooden chair. My dad’s office generally utilized natural light due to the expansive glass windows that allowed the light to drown the room, enclosing us in the chamber. I felt like an inmate being prepped for lethal injection. The weather was particularly gray and dismal. Perhaps it was the ambiguous, gray, confusing feelings I was breathing through. My parents had somewhat regular “interventions” to address my somewhat regular (sometimes public) emotional breakdowns, my self-medicating habits, and my general shitty attitude.

This week in particular, I had purposely destroyed two of my mother’s collectible horses. She had a maniacal obsession for them. She also maniacally collected sunflower artwork, which was the one obsession, of many, I found endearing. My old babysitter noted at one point there were 74 collectible horses in the house. After my outburst, there were 72.

I could see behind my parents, through the glass-paned door, my two younger sisters were secretly observing the altercation from the dining room, hiding under the table. They were illuminated by the ominous weather, which was also watching in on the dismal conversation through the windows. I was envious, jealous even, of my spectating sisters. My sisters didn’t have overflowing, excessive emotions. They didn’t have emotions that were considered “excessive.” I felt like an offender being put at the stocks: my parents were the executioners, and my sisters were the jesters.

“I’m angry.”

“What about?” my dad asked, puzzled. “Did someone do something to you?”

“Honey, were you—” my mother looked to my dad, then concealed her mouth slightly with the other hand, “ raped ?”

I couldn’t help but raise my voice. “No, Mom, I wasn’t raped, Jesus.” I took a moment to grind on my teeth and imagine the bit I was chomping at. Calm, careful, composed, I responded. “I’m just angry. I don’t feel—”

“What don’t you feel?” She practically jumped on me, while yanking my imprisoned hand toward her. She yanked at my reins.

“I don’t feel understood!” My mind was bucking. I didn’t know why I needed to react by raising my voice. It felt instinctive, defensive. Shouting forcefully, I jerked my hand away from her, but it remained in her clutches. I didn’t feel satisfied saying it, though what I said was the truth.

“What are you talking about?” my dad asked mournfully. I knew he felt betrayed. But he didn’t understand. He didn’t know what it’s like for things to be too much. Or to be too much. My dad looked at me longingly, hoping I would correct what I had said. He looked lost, incapable of understanding why I was doing what I was doing. My mother interjected, cutting off my dad’s hypnotic, silent cry for connection.

“You’re crazy!” she said, maintaining eye contact. My mother then let go of my hand, flipped it back to me. She reclined in her chair, retracting from me and the discussion entirely. She crossed her legs, then her arms. She turned her head away, toward the glass windows, and (mentally) left.

I was and am not “too much.”

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 18 years old.

I had just stepped off a squealing MAX line onto a broken sidewalk slab, gnarled from tree roots, when I felt my phone buzz rhythmically.

“I need you to come to the hospital. Mom had a little accident.” My dad’s voice was distant and cracking, like a wavering radio signal, calling for help.

“What’s going on? Is she okay?” I asked while making my way to campus.

“Where are you?” He wasn’t going to tell me anything over the phone. Adrenaline set in. I let him know I was downtown and headed to campus, but that I would catch a Lyft to wherever they were. “We’re at Milwaukie Providence. How soon can you get here?

“I’ll let you know soon.” My assumption was that my parents had been in an argument, my mother left the house in a rage, and crashed her car. She’d been an erratic driver for as long as I could remember, and my parents had been arguing more than usual recently, as many new “empty-nesters” do. The lack of information provided by my dad, however, was unsettling. I don’t really recall the ride to the hospital. I do remember looking over the river while riding from the west to east side of town. I remember the menacing, dark clouds rolling in faster than the driver could transport me. I remember it was quick, but it was too much time spent without answers.

When I arrived at Providence, I jumped out of the sedan and galloped into the lobby of the emergency room like a race horse on its final lap. My younger sister and Dad were seated on cushioned, bland-colored chairs in the waiting room. There were expansive glass windows that allowed the light to drown the room. The weather was particularly gray and dismal. Perhaps it was the ambiguous, gray, confusing feelings I was breathing through. I sat down beside my dad, in a firmer-than-anticipated waiting room chair beside him. He took my hand frantically. He took it in the way one might take someone’s hand to connect with or comfort them. He needed reassurance more than I did.

“Where did she get in the accident?” I asked.

My sister, sitting across from me with her head in her knees, looked up at me with aquamarine, tear-filled eyes. She was staring through me, an unclouded window. “Mom tried to kill herself.”

“What?” My voice crescendoed from a normal volume to a shriek in the span of a single word. My mind felt like it was bucking. I grabbed at my hair, pulling it back tight with my spare hand. The tears and cries reared, no matter how hard I yanked my mane.

“We got in another argument this morning, and she sent me a message saying she didn’t want to be in pain anymore. She told me to tell you girls she’s sorry. I’m so sorry.” I’d never seen my dad cry before; I didn’t know he could. I didn’t know his tears would stream like gushing water from a broken dam. He looked lost, incapable of understanding why she was doing what she was doing. I looked from my dad to my sister to my hands. One hand remained enveloped by my dad’s gentle palm. At this point in life, I had not yet learned to be gentle with myself, or others. I cut off my dad’s hypnotic, silent cry for connection.

“She’s crazy!” I let go of my dad’s hand, flipped it back to him. I reclined in the

chair, retracting from the situation entirely. I crossed my legs, then my arms. I turned my head away, toward the glass windows, and (mentally) left.

“Crazy” is a term devised to dismiss people.

My mother was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 50 years old.

Teacher Takeaways

“This essay makes excellent use of repetition as a narrative strategy. Throughout the essay, terms and phrases are repeated, generally with slight alterations, drawing the reader’s attention to the moment in question and recontextualizing the information being conveyed. This strategy is especially powerful when used to disclose the separate diagnoses of bipolar disorder, which is central to the narrative. I also appreciate the use of dialogue, though it mostly serves an expository function here. In itself that’s effective, but this narrative would be strengthened if that dialogue could serve to make some of the characters, especially the mother, more rounded.”

– Professor Dunham

My College Education

The following essay, “My College Education” is from Chapter 15.2 – Narrative Essay , Writing for Success , University of Minnesota Libraries.

The first class I went to in college was philosophy, and it changed my life forever. Our first assignment was to write a short response paper to the Albert Camus essay “The Myth of Sisyphus.” I was extremely nervous about the assignment as well as college. However, through all the confusion in philosophy class, many of my questions about life were answered.

I entered college intending to earn a degree in engineering. I always liked the way mathematics had right and wrong answers. I understood the logic and was very good at it. So when I received my first philosophy assignment that asked me to write my interpretation of the Camus essay, I was instantly confused. What is the right way to do this assignment, I wondered? I was nervous about writing an incorrect interpretation and did not want to get my first assignment wrong. Even more troubling was that the professor refused to give us any guidelines on what he was looking for; he gave us total freedom. He simply said, “I want to see what you come up with.”

Full of anxiety, I first set out to read Camus’s essay several times to make sure I really knew what was it was about. I did my best to take careful notes. Yet even after I took all these notes and knew the essay inside and out, I still did not know the right answer. What was my interpretation? I could think of a million different ways to interpret the essay, but which one was my professor looking for? In math class, I was used to examples and explanations of solutions. This assignment gave me nothing; I was completely on my own to come up with my individual interpretation.

Next, when I sat down to write, the words just did not come to me. My notes and ideas were all present, but the words were lost. I decided to try every prewriting strategy I could find. I brainstormed, made idea maps, and even wrote an outline. Eventually, after a lot of stress, my ideas became more organized and the words fell on the page. I had my interpretation of “The Myth of Sisyphus,” and I had my main reasons for interpreting the essay. I remember being unsure of myself, wondering if what I was saying made sense, or if I was even on the right track. Through all the uncertainty, I continued writing the best I could. I finished the conclusion paragraph, had my spouse proofread it for errors, and turned it in the next day simply hoping for the best.

Then, a week or two later, came judgment day. The professor gave our papers back to us with grades and comments. I remember feeling simultaneously afraid and eager to get the paper back in my hands. It turned out, however, that I had nothing to worry about. The professor gave me an A on the paper, and his notes suggested that I wrote an effective essay overall. He wrote that my reading of the essay was very original and that my thoughts were well organized. My relief and newfound confidence upon reading his comments could not be overstated.

What I learned through this process extended well beyond how to write a college paper. I learned to be open to new challenges. I never expected to enjoy a philosophy class and always expected to be a math and science person. This class and assignment, however, gave me the self-confidence, critical-thinking skills, and courage to try a new career path. I left engineering and went on to study law and eventually became a lawyer. More important, that class and paper helped me understand education differently. Instead of seeing college as a direct stepping stone to a career, I learned to see college as a place to first learn and then seek a career or enhance an existing career. By giving me the space to express my own interpretation and to argue for my own values, my philosophy class taught me the importance of education for education’s sake. That realization continues to pay dividends every day.

Model Student Essay

Innocence again.

Imagine the sensation of the one split second that you are floating through the air as you were thrown up in the air as a child, that feeling of freedom and carefree spirit as happiness abounds. Looking at the world through innocent eyes, all thoughts and feelings of amazement. Being free, happy, innocent, amazed, wowed. Imagine the first time seeing the colors when your eyes and brain start to recognize them but never being able to name the shade or hue. Looking at the sky as it changes from the blackness with twinkling stars to the lightest shade of blue that is almost white, then the deep red of the sunset and bright orange of the sun. All shades of the spectrum of the rainbow, colors as beautiful as the mind can see or imagine.

I have always loved the sea since I was young; the smell of saltiness in the air invigorates me and reminds me of the times spent with my family enjoying Sundays at the beach. In Singapore, the sea was always murky and green but I continued to enjoy all activities in it. When I went to Malaysia to work, I discovered that the sea was clear and blue and without hesitation, I signed up for a basic diving course and I was hooked. In my first year of diving, I explored all the dive destinations along the east coast of Malaysia and also took an advanced diving course which allowed me to dive up to a depth of thirty meters. Traveling to a dive site took no more than four hours by car and weekends were spent just enjoying the sea again.

Gearing up is no fun. Depending on the temperature of the water, I might put on a shortie, wetsuit or drysuit. Then on come the booties, fins and mask which can be considered the easiest part unless the suit is tight—then it is a hop and pull struggle, which reminds me of how life can be at times. Carrying the steel tank, regulator, buoyancy control device (BCD) and weights is a torture. The heaviest weights that I ever had to use were 110 pounds, equivalent to my body weight; but as I jump in and start sinking into the sea, the contrast to weightlessness hits me. The moment that I start floating in the water, a sense of immense freedom and joy overtakes me.

Growing up, we have to learn the basics: time spent in classes to learn, constantly practicing to improve our skills while safety is ingrained by our parents. In dive classes, I was taught to never panic or do stupid stuff: the same with the lessons that I have learned in life. Panic and over-inflated egos can lead to death, and I have heard it happens all the time. I had the opportunity to go to Antarctica for a diving expedition, but what led to me getting that slot was the death of a very experienced diver who used a drysuit in a tropic climate against all advice. He just overheated and died. Lessons learned in the sea can be very profound, but they contrast the life I live: risk-taker versus risk-avoider. However, when I have perfected it and it is time to be unleashed, it is time to enjoy. I jump in as I would jump into any opportunity, but this time it is into the deep blue sea of wonders.

A sea of wonders waits to be explored. Every journey is different: it can be fast or slow, like how life takes me. The sea decides how it wants to carry me; drifting fast with the currents so that at times, I hang on to the reef and corals like my life depends on it, even though I am taught never to touch anything underwater. The fear I feel when I am speeding along with the current is that I will be swept away into the big ocean, never to be found. Sometimes, I feel like I am not moving at all, kicking away madly until I hyperventilate because the sea is against me with its strong current holding me against my will.

The sea decides what it wants me to see: turtles popping out of the seabed, manta rays gracefully floating alongside, being in the middle of the eye of a barracuda hurricane, a coral shelf as big as a car, a desert of bleached corals, the emptiness of the seabed with not a fish in sight, the memorials of death caused by the December 26 tsunami—a barren sea floor with not a soul or life in sight.

The sea decides what treasures I can discover: a black-tipped shark sleeping in an underwater cavern, a pike hiding from predators in the reef, an octopus under a dead tree trunk that escapes into my buddy’s BCD, colorful mandarin fish mating at sunset, a deadly box jellyfish held in my gloved hands, pygmy seahorses in a fern—so tiny that to discover them is a journey itself.

Looking back, diving has taught me more about life, the ups and downs, the good and bad, and to accept and deal with life’s challenges. Everything I learn and discover underwater applies to the many different aspects of my life. It has also taught me that life is very short: I have to live in the moment or I will miss the opportunities that come my way. I allow myself to forget all my sorrow, despair and disappointments when I dive into the deep blue sea and savor the feelings of peacefulness and calmness. There is nothing around me but fish and corals, big and small. Floating along in silence with only the sound of my breath— inhale and exhale . An array of colors explodes in front of my eyes, colors that I never imagine I will discover again, an underwater rainbow as beautiful as the rainbow in the sky after a storm. As far as my eyes can see, I look into the depth of the ocean with nothing to anchor me. The deeper I get, the darker it turns. From the light blue sky to the deep navy blue, even blackness into the void. As the horizon darkens, the feeding frenzy of the underwater world starts and the watery landscape comes alive. Total darkness surrounds me but the sounds that I can hear are the little clicks in addition to my breathing. My senses overload as I cannot see what is around me, but the sea tells me it is alive and it anchors me to the depth of my soul.

As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: “The lover of nature is he whose inward and outward senses are truly adjusted to each other; who has retained the spirit of infancy even into the era of manhood.” … In the presence of nature, a wild delight runs through the man in spite of real sorrows….” The sea and diving have given me a new outlook on life, a different planet where I can float into and enjoy as an adult, a new, different perspective on how it is to be that child again. Time and time again as I enter into the sea, I feel innocent all over again.

Write What Matters Copyright © 2020 by Liza Long; Amy Minervini; and Joel Gladd is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Crafting a Winning Narrative Essay Outline: A Step-by-Step Guide

Many students struggle with crafting engaging and impactful narrative essays. They often find it challenging to weave their personal experiences into coherent and compelling stories.

If you’re having a hard time, don't worry! 

We’ve compiled a range of narrative essay examples that will serve as helpful tools for you to get started. These examples will provide a clear path for crafting engaging and powerful narrative essays.

So, keep reading and find our expertly written examples!

Arrow Down

  • 1. Narrative Essay Definition
  • 2. Narrative Essay Examples
  • 3. Narrative Essay Examples for Students
  • 4. Narrative Essay Topics
  • 5. Narrative Essay Writing Tips

Narrative Essay Definition

Writing a narrative essay is a unique form of storytelling that revolves around personal experiences, aiming to immerse the reader in the author's world. It's a piece of writing that delves into the depths of thoughts and feelings. 

In a narrative essay, life experiences take center stage, serving as the main substance of the story. It's a powerful tool for writers to convey a personal journey, turning experiences into a captivating tale. This form of storytelling is an artful display of emotions intended to engage readers, leaving the reader feeling like they are a part of the story.

By focusing on a specific theme, event, emotions, and reflections, a narrative essay weaves a storyline that leads the reader through the author's experiences. 

The Essentials of Narrative Essays

Let's start with the basics. The four types of essays are argumentative essays , descriptive essays , expository essays , and narrative essays.

The goal of a narrative essay is to tell a compelling tale from one person's perspective. A narrative essay uses all components you’d find in a typical story, such as a beginning, middle, and conclusion, as well as plot, characters, setting, and climax.

The narrative essay's goal is the plot, which should be detailed enough to reach a climax. Here's how it works:

  • It's usually presented in chronological order.
  • It has a function. This is typically evident in the thesis statement's opening paragraph.
  • It may include speech.
  • It's told with sensory details and vivid language, drawing the reader in. All of these elements are connected to the writer's major argument in some way.

Before writing your essay, make sure you go through a sufficient number of narrative essay examples. These examples will help you in knowing the dos and don’ts of a good narrative essay.

It is always a better option to have some sense of direction before you start anything. Below, you can find important details and a bunch of narrative essay examples. These examples will also help you build your content according to the format. 

Here is a how to start a narrative essay example:

Sample Narrative Essay

The examples inform the readers about the writing style and structure of the narration. The essay below will help you understand how to create a story and build this type of essay in no time.

Here is another narrative essay examples 500 words:

Narrative Essay Examples for Students

Narrative essays offer students a platform to express their experiences and creativity. These examples show how to effectively structure and present personal stories for education.

Here are some helpful narrative essay examples:

Narrative Essay Examples Middle School

Narrative Essay Examples for Grade 7

Narrative Essay Examples for Grade 8

Grade 11 Narrative Essay Examples

Narrative Essay Example For High School

Narrative Essay Example For College

Personal Narrative Essay Example

Descriptive Narrative Essay Example

3rd Person Narrative Essay Example

Narrative Essay Topics

Here are some narrative essay topics to help you get started with your narrative essay writing.

  • When I got my first bunny
  • When I moved to Canada
  • I haven’t experienced this freezing temperature ever before
  • The moment I won the basketball finale
  • A memorable day at the museum
  • How I talk to my parrot
  • The day I saw the death
  • When I finally rebelled against my professor

Need more topics? Check out these extensive narrative essay topics to get creative ideas!

Narrative Essay Writing Tips

Narrative essays give you the freedom to be creative, but it can be tough to make yours special. Use these tips to make your story interesting:

  • Share your story from a personal viewpoint, engaging the reader with your experiences.
  • Use vivid descriptions to paint a clear picture of the setting, characters, and emotions involved.
  • Organize events in chronological order for a smooth and understandable narrative.
  • Bring characters to life through their actions, dialogue, and personalities.
  • Employ dialogue sparingly to add realism and progression to the narrative.
  • Engage readers by evoking emotions through your storytelling.
  • End with reflection or a lesson learned from the experience, providing insight.

Now you have essay examples and tips to help you get started, you have a solid starting point for crafting compelling narrative essays.

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Narrative essay

Home / Essay Samples / Education / University / My First Day at Campus: Reflections on an Unforgettable Experience

My First Day at Campus: Reflections on an Unforgettable Experience

  • Category: Life , Education
  • Topic: A Day to Remember , Personal Experience , University

Pages: 1 (514 words)

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