Here’s five ways to channel Tube Girl energy as a Leeds student

Navigate uni with the same style and sass as Sabrina Bahsoon

7 months ago

Starting uni can be intimidating, but don’t stress – the experience is universal. Beginning a life in a new city is daunting for most people but give it a few weeks, and everyone soon settles down.

To help you along the way in the meantime, however, we thought we’d show you how you can channel your inner Tube Girl – aka Sabrina Bahsoon – and take Leeds by storm. Tube Girl is confident and embraces her uniqueness, using her platform to encourage others to do the same. She doesn’t care what other people think, least of all other Tube passengers, so neither should you.

Ready to become that girl or guy? Here are some tips.

1. Smile and fake it till you make it – you’ve got this!

As you’re out and about on campus, channel your inner Tube Girl by putting on at friendly smile. Be approachable, because you never know who you might strike up a conversation with at the local coffee shop or while waiting for that seminar. Most importantly, fake it till you make it! It doesn’t mean you have to pretend to be someone else; instead, it’s all about manifesting that confidence until it becomes real. Before you know it, you’ll be giving the same energy as our Underground icon.

2. Everyone is in the same boat

You may be feeling nervous chatting to new people, but, chances are, so is everyone else. Moving to a new city and starting a degree is intimidating. We all feel the same mix of nervousness and excitement, so be confident and chat with everyone as others will definitely appreciate the effort. You have nothing to lose – if it’s awkward, or you mess up, it doesn’t matter because there’s an equally good chance that you could be making potential lifelong friends.

3. Ditch the comparison game!

During the first weeks of uni, it can feel like everyone’s formed tight-knit circles. This often occurs because people are nervous and they cling to people out of fear. From my experience, yes, some friendships might continue through the three years, but equally, many fizzle out just as quickly as they formed. DEFINITELY do not sort out your second year house two weeks after starting as you are still getting to know people!

4. Join university societies

Tube Girl energy is all about being yourself and what better way to do that than joining a society? There are so many there’s bound to be one up your street. Most societies welcome newbies with open arms, regardless of skill level, so if a club or group sparks your interest, try it out – you’re almost certain to meet like-minded people. Societies also usually host many socials, which’ll help you break the ice and find your confidence. So, whether it’s salsa dancing or cheese appreciation – go give it a whirl, girl.

5. Talk to friends

Feeling a bit lost in the maze of uni life? Everyone has their worries – even Tube Girl I’m sure. Don’t be afraid to chat with friends from back home or your newfound buddies at uni. Sharing your challenges and struggles with others can be comforting and, generally, you will find that everyone has a wobble now and then.

It can be exhausting introducing yourself a million times or saying what course you do, so it’s always good to check in with friends and chat about anything you’re struggling with. Engaging with others isn’t just reassuring either; it can boost your self-confidence throughout the rollercoaster that is university life. These interactions are the hand on your shoulder when you’re navigating the ups and downs of your student journey.

In the grand scheme of things, starting uni is just one stop on your lifelong journey. So, embrace your Tube Girl energy, mind the gap between who you were and who you’re becoming, and enjoy the ride.