Now in my final year at university I decided to not only hear the thoughts of freshers who had finished up their year, but to also hear from the students that are over half way through their university journey just like me. The first post is from a now final year student, who has been lovely enough to share her story, so without further ado here is Natalie, a Keelite just like me:

'Something definitely happened over the course of second year. I'm not entirely sure when, but one day I woke up and felt aware of everything; words, feelings, etc. I felt changed and ready to take on everything. But first, let me back track.

My first year was disappointing. It was an experience to say the least, but I had to deal with situations that were above my head. I wasn't used to being surrounded by people who cared so little; perhaps I had a childhood accompanied by a bit too much cotton wool, but nothing could have prepared me. I was far too innocent and naive, and though I did make a couple of close friends, I felt disheartened and disappointed with my first year. I felt like I'd missed out.

Despite this, I was determined to try again - and I am glad that I did. In second year, I made an effort to find new friends with a similar work ethic and because of this, I excelled academically. We were able to bounce off of each other with thoughts and opinions, developing my own ideas and building on others - and when you're studying literature, this is the best way to learn. I owe a lot to these individuals who have not only been there for me when I'm stressed (it's a disastrous sight) but have listened when I needed a calm response.  

It is because of this that I was suddenly aware of my confidence and became comfortable within myself to go out and make Keele my own. This did contribute to my decision to run for Editor-in-Chief of Concourse. I know it's going to be very stressful, but I want to help students who were like myself. When I started writing during the previous summer, I found that I wasn't the only one in this situation - many felt the same! I found not only comfort in writing, but happiness. Something has changed within me and I like the new me.'

How did you feel about your second year? 

If you'd like to know anything about Keele University, feel free to ask little old me, or I can put you in contact with Nat! If you have any questions about first or second year, don't hesitate to ask, and keep an eye out for the rest of my Over Half Way There series to hear about the experience of students from all over the country. 

MissIsGoode