Saturday 14-07-2018 - 00:00

Mathew Ball studied BA Hons Animation and hopes to go on to study a Master’s degree within his chosen field.

Manchester is a diverse city, where anyone can fit into easily. As a person with autism and having an uneasy time settling into new places, it was comforting that I was close to home, and had that sense of experience of being more independent and accepted by others.

When I first started at Manchester Met back in 2015, it was the first step into the real world. Yes, you have to study hard, but it is worth it in the end. Even having a disability such as autism, or having a mental illness such as anxiety and depression, both of which I have. Don't let things like this prevent you from succeeding in university.

When you’re in university you’re in control. There is help all around you.

 We are all equals, so don't be afraid. I've been afraid - it was a new place for me, and a whole new chapter in my life. There are people to help all around you. Even trying to find love at university (which I have tried to do), which perhaps wasn’t wise to do in one of the most crucial times in my life. When it comes to having thoughts of being in relationships whilst at university, don't force anything on yourself. Just let fate take its course. Otherwise you’re not going to enjoy the university life you have always wanted or dreamt of. If love at university doesn't work out, don’t let it bring you down. I let it drag me down into a deep depression, which didn’t help me in anyway regarding my mental, physical or academic state. Please don’t do the same as I did guys.

Be confident, be yourself, achieve, and succeed to new heights. You only get one shot at university, don’t mess it up. Have fun, study as hard as you can, and be you. Good luck!

 

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