Another Uni Year Done & Dusted

It's that time again. I have officially finished Uni for another year.

It feels like only yesterday I was deciding on which trains to catch and what buildings I had to find my way to. Now, I'm doing TV packages and actually getting paid to write.

This last year has been completely full on, but in the best way.

My first semester felt like a marathon and my stress levels were definitely put to the test. There was a moment where I thought I might actually have to repeat a subject. It turns out Sub-Editing is a lot harder than just a few comma's. I also found a love for writing feature articles, even if they didn't reflect what my tutor thought they should. I realised I love getting to know just what makes a person tick and being given the privilege to do their story justice.

This semester was a breeze in comparison but gave me a bunch of different skill sets. I got even more frustrated with unreliable QUT staff and being offered no direction but that taught me to dig deeper and work out the challenges for myself. My radio and TV prac pushed me to be a better journalist and a stronger person. I had to pick myself up, no one else was there to do it for me. In saying that, this year at Uni has shown me the importance of true friendship. I have met some of the most beautiful, kind-hearted and thoughtful people. Our journalism cohort is one of support and admiration. I love that although we are competitive, we are also so happy for each other.

I'm going to have to get a little soppy and mention a few of my favourite girls. Without them I doubt I would have succeeded to the same level or be, at least somewhat, mentally stable.

Shaye.

I first met Shaye in my first week of Uni last year. We pretty much clicked instantaneously. Although she is no longer studying journalism she is still there for me every step of the way. She is easily one of my biggest supporters and is always so happy when I'm achieving.

Kate.

I also met Kate in my first week of Uni although we didn't really start speaking until the end of last semester. She is seriously the nicest person I have ever met, can't say a bad word about anyone and is always so sweet. During my radio breakdown I went up to Kate and asked for a hug. She handled the whole situation perfectly, mothered me a little and talked some sense into me. I just love her caring nature.

Emma.

We survived our first group assignment together and have been friends since. She is also such a beautiful friend and someone I admire. She has her life together and knows where she wants to go. I love her sense of humour.

I honestly feel so lucky to have made such beautiful friends. These girls are all such go-getters and I know surrounding myself with them makes me even more determined to get where I want to go.

I now only have one more year of Uni and can see that light at the end of the tunnel. I am, however, going to enjoy every little precious moment and keep taking the positives from this crazy learning experience.

#ashleighdwan #beyondthestory #journalism