Going to University - Is it the right step for me?

by Eve
(UK)

Hi Dawn,

First off, let me just say that I think your website is amazing. The mp3's have been a shining light for me in the negative stuff I have been through in the past. The first time I listened to one of them I burst into tears, but only because how at peace I felt. It will only take time for it to get to a point where I can completely switch off, but I am willing to be patient.

My question is one that I have been thinking of since I left school, three years ago.

This year, I finish college and have to go to University. But with the recession and financial problems, I really have no idea if this is the right step for me. I'm 18 and I study Media in college, I hope to go to University to take some kind of creative course (creative writing, media production, journalism etc.)

Thing is, is this really the right step for me?

When I go to university, won't all of the passion I have for writing just leave me, as I have to do this every single day? Or will it just grow?

I need help right now. I don't know what the best path for me is, how I'm going to pay for it, how I'll afford to come home to visit my family...

I love life, but bullying in the past has taught me to be very cautious, and now that paranoia has stopped me from making any decisions.

I can't talk to my parents about this as they are adament that they will help me financially, but the way I see it is that they have raised and supported me for 18 years, and it is time I got a taste of the real world and stepped out on my own.

Don't get me wrong, I have a job, but I want to leave. I want to get out. I need this. But is University really the only way?

Thank you for any help that you may provide :)