What I wish I’d known before Herts by Esther

1. Looking back, what's one thing you wish you'd known when you first started at Herts? 

Try not to be a loner or trying not to socialise. As a commuting student, I was just a come-to-class kind of girl and go back home. I didn't think I needed to partake or attend any of the activities the Uni and Herts SU provided. It wasn't until I started working a School Community Organiser for Herts SU that I saw how much I was missing from not being part of the student life, networking and social events and the amazing long-lasting friendships I got along via the activities I attended. I thought I wouldn't be able to juggle Uni, being an SCO and working as a bar staff for stadiums, but I was able to, my grades weren't affected, I finished with Distinctions, got to plan events and initiatives as an SCO. Everything is just up to you. 

2. What advice would you give to international students starting their studies? 

Be calm, yes everything is new but take time to explore and understand it. Don't just focus on your academics and part-time jobs. Remember to make the most of the free services and activities provided by the Uni and Herts SU, such as the HertSquad Active programme, advice from the Herts Advice and Support Centre and Herts SU societies, because outside of Uni people pay a lot for it. When applying to graduate jobs they don't just focus on your grades, they need to see you are a well-rounded person academically and socially. 

3. What opportunities or support do you think students often overlook? 

The academic and wellbeing support is something I think students can easily overlook, and I’m guilty of this as well. I thought the academic services were only for when we failed our courses, but because I didn’t, I never made use of the services. I also thought the wellbeing service was about support for disabilities rather than mental health. When I did some proper research into the services and opportunities available, I realised how much I was missing and how much the academic services could provide. 

4. What's one thing every student should do before they graduate? 

Have a good relationship with your lecturers because you will need them for your academic references😁and make an appointment with the Careers team to go through your next steps after you graduate, especially if you have no idea what you want to do after uni. Make sure when you look back, you can say I had a great time as a student. 

5. If you could give one piece of advice to help students, make the most of their time at Herts, what would it be? 

No one will force you to do anything; it is all up to you to make the research because the Herts SU and the Uni have everything you need, to make the most of your time; it is just one click away. 

6. Is there anything else you'd like to share with current or prospective students? 

Have a blast! Grow, explore and learn. Remember you will find new things that you might just enjoy don’t be rigid in your ways be curious. As a London girl, I can honestly say Hatfield isn't boring. Trust me, the University of Hertfordshire has so much to offer, so make the most of it!

Esther Adesina, President (Community) at Herts SU, BSc Mass Communication, University of Lagos, a soon to MSc Management with Digital Marketing graduate from the University of Hertfordshire by September. 

My journey with the Herts SU began when I became a School Community Organiser for Hertfordshire Business School in September last year, a role that gave me the opportunity to work closely with students, organise events, and help create a stronger sense of belonging on campus. I loved being able to make a real difference to the student experience, which inspired me to run for President Community and I became elected. Now, I am working with the university, as a trustee of Herts SU, to advocate students’ interest and run campaigns that impact all students at the Uni.