Lone wolf’s guide to Uni life
For many of us, shifting to Rhodes University is often the very first time we are away from our families. Excluding the obvious task of academics, immersing yourself in campus life as an introvert can frightening, as while everyone around you is making friends, attending parties and having a good time. Rhodes is one of the smallest universities in the country, and we have a drinking culture unlike any other. Your first few weeks of university are conventionally consumed by meeting new people, socialising and having a grand old time.
But O-Week can be dreadfully unnerving if you’re introverted. The thought of socialising with people I didn’t know was something I only had in worst nightmares back in my first year. Not only is it an intimidating experience, but this new life can often leave you feeling drained. If you’re anything like me, you need to switch on your energy-saving mode.
It’s difficult not to come across as rude towards your res mates or room-mates when you simply want to retreat to your bed on a Friday night. But there are ways you can appreciate the university experience with an introvert’s hangover, rather than a real one.
Have a picnic in the Botanical Gardens
We are fortunate enough to have the gardens right on campus. Bots is an open, earthy and peaceful space where you can enjoy an afternoon walk, read a book or have a picnic, and it can be easier for you to have a time-out there when you’re with friends. Pack a bottle of wine (or juice) and some snacks and head to the lawns - but be careful not to stay there too late if you’re alone.
Coffee or milkshake dates
These are a great way to catch up with new friends and they’re safe because they don’t last too long, so you don’t have to worry about searching for conversation after an hour! Grahamstown doesn’t have that many restaurants, but what we do have are some nifty places to grab a hot drink or a milkshake. Try Red Cafe’s R20 cupcake and tea special from 8am -12:20pm and again from 2pm-4pm during the week.
A store run to get some snacks
If you plan on spending the evening alone to catch up with your favourite fictional characters while your friends are out, suggest taking a walk together to Spar or Pick n Pay first. That way, you can have a quick chat and gear up for your own crazy night with literature; or a movie on your laptop.
Chill by the fountain
If you had a frantic night, spend the next morning or early afternoon recuperating at the fountain behind the Admin building. It is a serene place to spend a Sunday afternoon, whether listening to some music or just revitalising to the sound of splashing water and the sight of Koi fish.
Sometimes, it’s not such a bad idea to have a night out with your friends, either. The best part about living in a small town is that if you feel uneasy you don’t have to stay, since the comfort of your safe space is close by.
When you are an introvert, there is nothing more gratifying than that feeling of anxiety leaving your mind.