‘I was terrified of uni – now I help freshers find their confidence’

Abz has bipolar, autism and ADHD, but tailored support and determination have helped him transform his life

A young Mancunian who nearly quit university on day one due to severe anxiety is now inspiring the next generation of students.

Muhammad ‘Abz’ Abby, who lives with bipolar disorder as well as autism and ADHD, says he always had felt like he didn’t belong and feared people judging him.

“In my first week, I had an anxiety attack outside the classroom and thought maybe I shouldn’t even be here,” he recalls.

In high school, Abz was selectively mute. He struggled to speak to anyone and often felt isolated.

The first few weeks of his journalism course at University Academy 92 felt just as terrifying. Abz developed nervous tics, felt overwhelmed and debated quitting. Within a few  weeks, his mental health worsened and he was hospitalised.

“From day one the team at UA92 were so supportive and made sure to stay in regular contact even after I was discharged. At uni, people really looked out for me, classmates reassured me, the tutors and Wellbeing team believed I could do this. That belief changed everything.

“Since then, it would be true to say I’ve made a 180-degree turn. I’m confident and unashamedly myself” says Abz.

Small adjustments helped him navigate university life. From emails worded to avoid triggering panic, to having a fixed half-day timetable.  Alongside a Learning Support Plan evolved as his confidence grew.

With support, Abz slowly found his voice. He embraced his differences and began to enjoy student life.

“With all this support, I felt like I could finally be myself” he says. “I started speaking in class, making friends and even giving talks, things I would never have imagined in high school.”

Abz also credits the support from UA92’s Wellbeing and Inclusive Support teams for helping him thrive.

Abz has since chosen to pursue a career as a neurodiverse public speaker and content creator. He still returns to every open day and graduation to share his story with new students and show his passion for UA92.

“I wouldn’t have imagined doing any of this six years ago,” he says. “I run marathons, speak to hundreds of people and take on new challenges every day. I’m joyful and that wasn’t the case when I first arrived at UA92.”

Abz wants new students to know it’s normal to feel scared.

“Take a deep breath, be brave and speak to someone straight away. Step out of your comfort zone, go to Freshers’ events, talk to new people and be authentic. You’re not alone, I was there and you can do it too.”

Mental health challenges are the main reason students drop out of higher education, according to research by TASO (Transforming Access and Student Outcomes in Higher Education). A recent survey by charity Student Minds also found that 57 per cent report current mental health issues, highlighting how challenging starting university can be.

Sara Prowse, CEO said: “Our Welcome Week events aim to help students settle in quickly, feel confident about the start of their higher education journey and ensure they not only continue with their course but also enjoy student life to its fullest, just like Abz did.

University Academy 92 is a higher education institution co-founded by Gary Neville, the ‘Class of ’92’ and Lancaster University.

For more information, visit: UA92.ac.uk

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About University Academy 92 (UA92)

University Academy 92 (UA92) is a groundbreaking higher education institution co-founded by the Class of ‘92 and Lancaster University.

It is committed to making higher education accessible to all no matter the background, through its founding principles of accessibility, social mobility and inclusivity.

UA92 offers a portfolio of degree and higher education courses across business, sport, media and digital disciplines, preparing students for the world of work by offering industry-led courses.

UA92 gives students a clear route into industry by opening the door to leading businesses.

Working in partnership with the likes of Microsoft, TalkTalk, KPMG and Manchester United, students benefit from mentors, guest lectures and work experience opportunities, in addition to a character and personal development programme, along with financial support beyond traditional scholarships and government loans.

UA92 also offers apprenticeships tailored to meet employer requirements, equipping learners with industry-recognised and real-world skills. The main UA92 campus is based in Old Trafford, Manchester, with a Business School in the city centre.

UA92 degrees are awarded by Lancaster University.

For more information, visit www.ua92.ac.uk