Letters from the dorm: Variety is the spice of life

Four weeks into the second term of university, I can finally say that I have settled in and become more familiar with the surroundings. Like everybody else here, my first term was spent participating in club events, including the Islamic Society's Quiz Night, aerial arts sessions, and rowing. I am able to manage my time more effectively (for revision, for example) now because I have committed myself to several societies and I know exactly what my responsibilities are.

At most British universities, your grades in your freshman year don't count towards your final degree.

So my first year is really the only time I can afford to try out new activities without worrying too much about how it will affect my graduation. I personally think it's a brilliant idea - not because I don't want to study! As a freshman, I have to adapt to a lot of changes, such as different essay-writing styles, new friends and a new learning environment. But because my first year doesn't really count, I can experiment with different study methods and devote more time to extracurricular activities. I am trying aerial arts, learning Russian (a new language for me), and I've even launched the Tea and Cake Appreciation Society.