My top tips for navigating university with CF

Like most people I was nervous about starting university. A large part of my anxiety came from having to manage my health while also having to navigate and adapt to university life. Having to be aware of things like hygiene and viruses can be quite isolating, especially during a time when the main focus is to meet and mix with as many people as possible. But I was able to find a balance that worked for me, allowing myself to socialise and meet new people, while also being aware of my health.  

Finding a balance that works for you 

Navigating university life took some time. By the end of the Autumn semester, I realised that I was neglecting my overall health and wellbeing, since all my time and energy was spent focusing on my studies. I realised that this wasn’t something that I could continue to do in the long run, as I also suffer from chronic fatigue. I contacted my tutors, who helped me make the decision to switch to part-time studies. This meant that I was able to focus more on enjoying my first year, instead of spending all my time and energy on my studies. 

Your health is always the priority and the university should do what they can to accommodate your needs and find a solution that works for you. I got in touch with the university’s disability team during the first few weeks of term. They gave me a rundown of the type of support and adjustments that I was entitled to, which came in useful during the year. I have found that making people aware of your CF helps them to understand and accommodate your needs, which is important when you're living with an unpredictable chronic illness.  

Cystic Fibrosis Trust’s Student Support Service can also be a great help. The team can help you consider what support you may need to get the most out of your studies and enjoy student life while living with CF.  

Being open and honest 

I also found being upfront about my CF with other students helped them to understand why I might be absent from class or why I wasn’t able to contribute as much to group projects if I was ill. My flatmates made sure that I had space in the fridge for my medication, and my friends were understanding if I had to cancel plans due to health reasons.  

I find that being open and honest about my situation makes it easier for both myself and others, but you will quickly figure out what works best for you! The most important thing is that you make sure to put yourself and your health first, and to not be afraid to reach out and ask for help when needed.  

Don’t be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone 

Although it might seem scary and daunting to make such a big life change, I promise that it is possible and was definitely worth it for me. Don’t be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone, and to not let your health stop you from living the life you want.  

Basic CF advice like keeping antibac in my bag and keeping my distance from people who were coughing or sneezing were a couple of the things that I did to help keep myself safe and healthy, especially during the first few weeks. Living alone and looking after yourself can be difficult, but the independence is worth it and shows you just how much you are capable of.  

Before starting university, I’d also make sure you contact the local CF team, informing them of your move, as well as contacting your student accommodation, so that they are aware of the situation and can best prepare and accommodate for your needs. For me, they were able to find me an en-suite room with a shared kitchen on the ground floor. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and support. At the end of the day, the university and your tutors want you to succeed and should help you in any way that they can.  

Thank you to Tess for sharing her top tips and good luck to all the new students starting university this month. 

You can find more information about our Student Support Service here.  

Find out more