The Croissant Misunderstanding: A Lesson in Expectation

By Shola Morgan

I once brought croissants to a group heading off to choir practice. There were four of us in the car, five including her son, who, with his 6’4” frame, generously made more space for us and squeezed himself into the boot. You can imagine the struggle. But hey, croissants! I had surprised everyone that morning, and they loved it.

The next time, though, they assumed I'd be bringing them again. Spoiler: I didn’t. The result? A few fainting spells (true story!) as the lack of breakfast took a toll, all because everyone had banked on those flaky pastries. It was a lovely moment gone wrong, a reminder of the dangers of putting all your expectations into one basket—or croissant box, in this case.

Now, think about university life. Like my croissant drama, students often expect success to just happen because of all the effort they've put into one area—be it academic achievements, friendships, or personal goals. But here's the rub: when we place all our emotional or mental investment in one area, the slightest shake can cause the whole thing to crumble.

Three Ways to Avoid the ‘Croissant Trap’ at University:

1. Diversify Your Investments

Just like you shouldn’t expect croissants every time, don’t put all your hopes in just one area. Be ambitious, but make sure to nurture multiple aspects of your life—friends, hobbies, academics, and self-care. If one aspect falls short, you’ll still have something else to lift you up.

2. Manage Expectations

Assumptions, like expecting me to always bring croissants, can lead to disappointment. Be mindful of your expectations. University is a mix of highs and lows. Know that not everything will go according to plan, but that’s okay. A setback in one class or friendship doesn’t mean it’s the end.

3. Prioritise Balance

Students often invest too heavily in academics or social life at the expense of their mental health. It’s easy to focus too much on one "asset." Take time for yourself, have a balanced routine, and avoid over-relying on one area for your happiness.

This story highlights the importance of balance, humour, and the danger of over-investment. By drawing from your experience and expanding it to a university setting, it becomes an engaging metaphor that’s both light and meaningful for students.