Returning to the hilly landscape of Bristol was long-awaited over my summer. Although it was great to be back in London seeing friends and family, the freedom and exciting experiences awaiting me in Bristol were always at the back of my mind.
Second year is undeniably a step-up from first year and, at times, the amount of reading we are expected to get through has been a struggle. However, I am finding this year much more intellectually stimulating, especially since I made the decision to start Latin. Although I took Spanish at A-Level, I was still concerned that taking this famously complex and grammar-heavy language would be nothing but stressful. However, I’ve been pleasantly surprised with how I’ve been able to engage with it and my only regret is not doing it last year!
In addition to my academic work, I’ve been trying to take advantage of the many opportunities that Bristol has to offer. Attending Freshers Fair and helping out on the Classics and Ancient History stall definitely inspired me to get more involved in the plethora of extra-curricular activities available. I’ve joined Pottery Society and my first lesson official lesson is next month where I (ambitiously) hope to make an amphora! In addition, I’ve written a handful of articles for Epigram, something last year I was too scared to do. I had no idea I would feel such a sense of pride from seeing my name in print and I can’t wait to write more! In an attempt to enhance my CV (and accept my fate of becoming an adult) I have started the Bristol PLUS Award, a scheme which aims to equip students with the essential skills required to be successful in the working world. Fortunately for me, I already have the required work experience under my belt so I hope to have it completed by Christmas.
Exploring a new area has been another highlight of second year so far. Last year I lived in shared accommodation at Churchill Hall in Stoke Bishop for a month or so before moving to my own room in Unite House so I felt as though I was already quite well-travelled when it came to Bristol. Turns out I was wrong, which, to be honest, is only a positive as it means that there are lots of fantastic new places just waiting to be discovered and explored. One such example is Cotham Hill which has been a real treat with all its charity shops and an amazing café called ‘Health Hub’ where I’ve picked up an organic juice when I really need a pick-me-up. Next, I hope to learn the ins-and-outs of Gloucester Road!
Fingers crossed that all goes well in this term and my pottery dreams become a reality!
– Flora
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