Don’t Take It All So Seriously

And other advice from a washed-up Saint

Illustration: Calum Mayor

I mean it — take it from me. It’s so easy to take St Andrews way too seriously. It’s the isolation, it’s the people, it’s the culture. Either way, don’t let it get to your head. There’s no one way your St Andrews experience is meant to play out. Expectations and regret bog you down, and it makes things really hard. Here are a few other lessons I’ll put you on the fast track for.

First off, never stop being a fresher. Like ever. Even when you start thinking about summer internships or the wide world of postgrad. That means always trying something new, even if it makes you uncomfortable. For example, try a sport. Genuinely, try golfing at least once! It also means never stop putting yourself out there, even after Freshers’ Week ends. If you have a group of friends, always keep branching out and reaching out to other people. And be silly! Especially in your academic family. Commit to the cult-bit. Some of the most important people in my life I didn’t meet until second-year. This is not a destination, this is one long journey you’re trying to survive. Welcome to adulthood. Sometimes it’s rocky, sometimes it’s smooth, but here in Fife it’ll always be interesting. 

As you try to stay afloat in our quaint town, always call home. And on that note, don’t wait for your mum to point out how sick you sound over the phone. You’ll likely get sick. Don’t stretch yourself too thin and rest when this happens. Medicate. Set limits for yourself, and others. This is the first time many of us live in communal spaces with strangers. Do not be the terrible roommate or flatmate! Make your bed, don’t steal, clean up after yourself. When you suck, other people will actually hear about it — and word gets around here. St Andrews is a gossip haven. As dear David can attest, I am a gossip fiend. However, always remember the difference between innocent, fun gossip and mean rumours. What you say about other people will affect how people feel about you.

When you’re well and healthy, remember: we actually do go to uni! Do some of the readings, go to some of your lectures. I don’t care if you have to find someone cute in your classes or at the library to motivate you to go, or you just need a reminder that, yes, this will all be on the test. Whatever it takes. And do not be rude to your tutors. They consistently deserve so much credit and respect. 

When you need a break from being an academic weapon, find what works for you. Maybe it’s Dog Walking Society, maybe it’s Pablos in 601, maybe it’s both. If nights out are your jam, try all the pubs. They’re all different and mostly wonderful. The same goes for drunk food. Try all the outlets before you pick favourites (Rocca superiority!) Just remember, give yourself a break sometimes. They will play ABBA again, you’re not missing out! You’ll survive just fine if you go to bed early just once. 

No matter your academic style, studying style, unwinding style, or street style, I am confident you’ll find St Andrews a place unlike any other. Take advantage of being here and in this unique ecosystem. Walk the Fife Coastal Path, visit Crail. You’ll find that for centuries, this landscape has inspired different versions of faith. Faith by definition is a “complete trust or confidence in someone or something”. Let this place give you faith in yourself. You are here for a reason and deserve to be here. Have faith that things will work out exactly as they should. The best things for you aren’t usually easy, never expect them to be. And, almost most importantly, have faith your second year housing will be completely fine!