Dear mini-me

Dearest mini-me

Wow, I can’t believe that it’s been almost nine months since you’ve embarked on the journey that is university. I can still remember your nervous excitement during that excruciating eleven hour drive to Grahamstown, followed by that sinking feeling when you finally pulled into High Street and realised just how small town really is.

Little did you know how familiar you would become with town and all its little streets as well as how the quaintness of Grahamstown would grow on you, despite its rather limited shopping scene. So, instead of indulging in one of your favourite pastimes, shopping, you have to find other ways to keep busy, be it taking make-up lessons with friends, having spur of the moment “sleepovers” or movie nights in Res and more importantly experimenting with and learning cook all the important food groups namely: chips, popcorn, cheese, noodles and croissants in the microwave!

Another great way to make use of your somewhat limited free time is by taking driving lessons. It’s a great move toward independence but believe you me, it doesn’t come without its ups and downs. No, you didn’t injure yourself or anyone else for that matter...well...not yet, but you did however fail the road test. Now, I know you’re probably upset by this news but don’t let it get to you. In hindsight, failure was just what you needed to keep you level headed especially as all the other aspects of your life were going well and you started to view the world through rose tinted glasses.

Looking back and considering all your reservations about leaving the comfort and security of home, I would say that you really have nothing to worry about. Rhodes is great, well except at the end of short terms when you’re swamped with work and have to meet seemingly impossible deadlines. Other than that, I’m sure that you’ll find this never ending adventure and quest for self-discovery and independence to be quite fulfilling. You will also meet some of the most amazing and interesting people here. You’ll also see more bare feet in your first two weeks here, than you’ve seen your whole life!

I’d like to leave you with a word of advice before you embark on this journey: take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, you’ll soon discover that it really is worth it and remember what Bliss Blass says, “when in doubt, wear red”!

Bon Voyage!

Love,
Your older and slightly wiser self