Going to University

My first year at the University of Southampton has been the best of my life so far. The step to university from school or college is a big one because it’s often your first time living away from home and the learning style is totally different to school with a much greater emphasis on independent learning.

University life is about a lot more than the course too, I’d say that being part of societies is definitely as important as your course itself because they’re a great way to meet others and try new skills. I’m lucky enough to be both studying Aerospace Engineering at the University of Southampton and also to be Factual Executive for SUSUtv, the University’s student TV station. This role has seen me produce a documentary on the Spitfire which provided me with the opportunity to interview a real Spitfire pilot, something which I definitely did not think I would be doing when I started University! I’m also fortunate enough to have been elected as a Course Representative for my year group too which involves representing the views of students to Faculty staff. Now the reason for me mentioning these experiences of mine is that, being both Factual Executive and Course Representative, communicating to groups of people is absolutely crucial, whether that be a video production team or the year group on the course. Without being in Facebook groups I doubt that I’d be able to do this as they are such an effective means of communication. They also provide a wonderful open environment to discuss ideas as well as meaning that you are always contactable.

So how is this relevant to the NMC? During this summer 2015 I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to volunteer here and part of that included setting up a Facebook group in order to provide an open forum for discussion on the topic of moving to University. Having had such a great experience at University this year I do truly feel that other people who have muscular dystrophy such as myself should have the opportunity to attend University. This is the purpose behind the Facebook
group, allowing everyone to make a well informed choice about their future. The group is open to everyone at the NMC, whether you’re looking to go to University, are currently there or have finished your degree it’s the ideal place to find out about all aspects of University life or help those looking to go. The group is only visible to members so it is a totally secure place for an open and honest discussion.

Of course the most important aspect of any group is the people in it so if you are looking to go to University, are there or have been in the past, this is definitely the group for you. To join the group you need to be registered on Facebook and search for “NeuroMuscular Centre University Discussion Group”.  If the group doesn’t come up go to the top menu and click on the MORE tab, then click the GROUPS tab.  The link has a button where you can request to join.