Self-confidence doesn’t always come easy. Trust me, I know. It’s a long process, and it’s also quite abstract when you actually think about it, because the experience is different for everyone. It’s also something that you never really realize you acquire, unless you actually think about it (look, I’m sure we all have those nights where we just lie in bed and get philosophical with ourselves). Nevertheless, university provides a convenient platform to help build up your confidence!
Here are some quick, general tips (as highlighted in the video):
- Presentations and participating in class seminars is a good way to build up confidence (even if the very thought of talking in front of a class gives you the heebie-jeebies!) Think of it as a practice-run for future endeavours.
- Being away from home helps, because you’ll have to learn how to carry yourself in a different environment (especially if you’re an international student)
- Don’t let what people think of you influence the way you carry yourself, especially among peers. There’s a difference between adapting to a situation based on discourse and just completely changing yourself for the sake of acceptance. Likewise, there’s also a difference between CHANGING and IMPROVING yourself.
- University in general is a great platform to build your confidence! It’s a place where you’re encourage to form and argue your ideas and opinions. Plus, you also learn how to develop thick skin, which means you’re less prone to insecurity.
- Sometimes, ‘faking it’ isn’t a bad idea. Honestly.
- Most importantly, believe in yourself! At the end of the day, you need to be the one willing enough to make the change!
