October 2021

EXPERIENCE

- In the first week we had a design sprint. Our group was formed on the macro trend we individually felt more interested in. Working with different people was really fun, and allowed us to each show off our best qualities for the project. My role was the researcher.

Able to see who was in our groups for our workshops and tutorials, meeting my tutor and lectures more.

- Have had blended sessions of online and offline.

- Started going to the SU gym for classes.

- Getting support and guidance from Student Support.

FEELINGS

- The first month of univeristy was challenging and fast paced but exciting. Coming back onto campus and seeing people face to face again was a slightly weird sensation. But strangely it felt normal. We have been able to work in our tutorials and workshops and I am really happy with the people who are in my groups; some are old friends and now I have new ones. Especially with our tutorials, I feel very comfortable, with the people in my group and my tutor. I love how close these groups are and do allow you to express your feelings directly. Naomi who is my tutor I feel like its very knowledgeable and I look forward to getting to know her more especially in the future.

EVALUATION

- (GOOD) I really like the blend of sessions being both in person and online. The design Sprint I found really interesting. I really enjoyed the topic and getting to know people who I haven’t worked with before. Also with this group, I didn’t take the lead – this I do normally do as I do quite like them roles but I decided not to put myself forward and actually felt less pressured and stressed. Also, I am currently enjoying researching about my macro trend for the future thinking project. I have got possible ideas of where to take it but not focusing on them at the moment. Following on from showing our macro trend presentation, I got some really good feedback! I felt really comfortable with my group and am looking forward to continue to get to know my group and tutor.

- (BAD) I am getting overwhelmed and did burn myself out – with the stress of balancing uni with work and having a social life as well as having a lot of life changes recently its been tougher. But I have to say nothing has been bad/ terrible.

WHAT I AM TAKING AWAY

- I think for myself, I probably needed to put less pressure on going on and being sociable in the first weeks of uni. But with being in COVID for so long wanted to get things going and go out for that drink or meal. In regards to my uni work, I feel like I have been productive and started my assignment quite well. I actually love the current direction it is heading in. I feel confident with exploring different narratives of my work and want to continue to develop my knowledge around the subject. I plan to look to the rubric assessment criteria and make sure I am meeting the objectives. In the past, I wouldn’t ask for help. Normally, I have felt I haven’t needed it but due to having out tutorials this year I feel really comfortable with my group and tutor now.