Moving On: Goodbye University, Goodbye Blog

I have been blogging for the University of Leicester for over two years now, beginning towards the end of my first year, and through that time I’ve posted almost eighty blog posts via both the Film Studies and History of Art page. But now, today, as my university journey comes to an end I am also having to say goodbye to this blog.

I am due to graduate next month and in all honesty I have mixed feelings, in the midst of job hunting and getting into a more normal routine, I have really reflected on my university experience; what I might have done differently, what I would repeat, and thinking about things that I did or did not want to happen that shaped me nonetheless. The only conclusion I really came to was that although there’s certainly a couple of things that have happened over my time at university that I wouldn’t wish upon anyone, I’m very much proud of the person I’ve becoming, emerging from the other side.

Although I still experience struggles with mental health, I feel as if university in some ways has helped me take control a little more; with the independence I have definitely become more confident, and the world doesn’t seem quite as scary as it used to. Academically my confidence has been restored as, after a rather rocky road in my A-Levels, I’m proud to say I will be graduating with 1st Class Honours in July, and I can’t wait to see where that can take me.  That being said, I have no idea what’s in store for me in the next few weeks, let alone months/years, so I think I’m going to have to play it by ear a little.

Whether you’re a couple of months away from starting your university journey, or years down the line in your degree, treasure the experience, whether good, bad or ugly, because you’ll never experience anything else quite like it. Equally take and savour the opportunities you are able to; this blog, my other universities jobs/volunteering, and my experience as a Walt Disney World Cast Member really shaped my university life and I really wouldn’t change those experiences. Really make the most of what you are learning, as for many of you this will be the last time you get get the chance to shine academically. Try your best, and do not give up if things get rough; it really will be worth it in the end, I promise.

I hope whoever takes on this blog next has as much fun as I did with it, and if this my successor reading this; good luck with everything university throws at you…and don’t forget to document some of it here.

I equally hope if there’s anyone out there who has been reading a while, has popped back here and there, or has simply read a single post, I hope this blog gave you whatever you were looking for; help, advice, encouragement, reassurance, or even just light entertainment. It’s been a pleasure writing for you.

I realise my usual concluding sentence won’t cut it this time, as I cannot ‘Speak to You All Soon’, but I really do hope you ‘Take Care’ as always, and are looking forward to the new content, and new creator, to come.

Goodbye Everyone, and Good Luck in the Future,

Charlotte D.