On the summer before my freshman year, I wasn't sure how I'd cope. As someone who struggles with social anxiety and depression, it didn't feel like the experience was for me even though it was something I really wanted to do. Learning more about my chosen subject sounded brilliant, but the media portrayals of uni made it seem like my very own vision of Hell.

Luckily it wasn't like that at all. Most of the students were much quieter and more studious than the people on Fresh Meat. Setting up the support I needed was difficult at times, mostly because there was so much of it, but eventually things clicked into place. I had mentors from an autism care company as well as practical support to help me find my way around.

One thing that really helped was alternative assessments. Some of the tasks - especially big group projects - would have been impossible due to my anxieties. On those occasions the tutors were immensely helpful, and went out of their way to make sure that nobody was disadvantaged.

You've probably heard this before, but one of the big things with uni is to ask for help when you're struggling. If you're worried about an exam then email your tutor, and if you need extra support then definitely get in touch well before you start. Help is out there; you just need to ask the right person.

Jack