When I first came to UCLan, I didn’t expect the rollercoaster it would turn out to be. Between financial stress, homesickness, and the pressures of assignments, I often questioned whether university was really for me. One of my teachers in college once told me, “I don’t think university is for some people, and you’re one of those people.” But instead of accepting it, I decided to prove them wrong. 

Growing up as a working-class, neurodiverse kid, my childhood was a journey of misunderstanding and resilience. Home wasn’t always a haven, and school was a maze where I struggled to find my way. The education system didn’t recognise or support kids like me, leaving me grappling with challenges that had no name. But my teenage years found purpose in activism, co-founding Youth Strike 4 Climate, where I learned the power of collective action and giving a voice to those unheard. 

University felt like the next challenge. I entered UCLan through clearing, which initially seemed like a step back. Yet, it became a turning point. Clearing showed me that there are many routes to success, even if they aren't the ones we initially planned. And it was here at UCLan, through the Students’ Union, that I found my community—the people who made this place feel like home. My involvement with the*9k4what campaign connected me to students who shared the same struggles, frustrations, and hopes for a better student experience. These connections kept me going, reminding me I wasn’t alone. 

My story isn’t about finding the perfect path; it’s about the messy, difficult, and ultimately rewarding process of carving out a place in the world. It’s a reminder that even when the path to success is unconventional, it’s still a path worth taking. 

 If you’re feeling the weight of university life—whether it’s homesickness, financial stress, or just being overwhelmed by deadlines—I want you to know that UCLan has support for you. It’s in those small moments of reaching out and connecting with others that make all the difference. We’ve got a variety of opportunities coming up, and I encourage you to join in: 

• Library & IT Support Drop-In (Monday, 11th November): Get one-on-one help with your academic work and library resources. 
• "Unibattle" Financial Wellbeing Competition (11th-22nd November): Learn financial tips and have a chance to win prizes like cash or air fryers. 
• Advice & Slice (Tuesday): Grab some free pizza in Burnley while getting advice from the SU team. 
• Craftanoon (Tuesday): Join a well-being-themed crafting session in Preston to de-stress. 
• Amnesty Day (Wednesday): Return overdue books or equipment with no fines—an easy way to get a fresh start! 

Throughout the week, we’re also distributing Well-Being Packs and Postcards. These postcards are a way to show support and acknowledgement to students, staff, services, or even strangers. It’s a small gesture, but it can have a big impact. Sometimes, a kind word or a thoughtful message is all it takes to make someone’s day. 

University can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. My journey here at UCLan hasn’t been without challenges, but finding my family through the Students’ Union and the 9k4what campaign kept me going. I want you to feel that same connection. 

So whether you need support, a break, or just want to feel more connected, join us at one of these events. We’re here for you every step of the way. 

You can find a full diary of events here 

Charlotte Lastoweckyi
VP Education