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So there’s only one more week left before the tertiary institutes reopen, and if you’re going to be a first year student there’s no denying you’ve heard thousands of stories about what to expect.
We know you’re eager to experience it all for yourself, but before you jump right in, here are five tips to help you prepare for those first few months:
1. It isn’t like high school
You’ve probably heard this before, but it is important that I emphasise how true this is.
No one is going to be calling you (or your parents) if you don’t show up. All of your studying is going to be self-driven. Seriously, remember the nice biology teacher who gave you notes and time to study in class? It won't happen here. You also won't be getting reminders about assignments submission dates. You're on your own, so be organised!
2. Take a tour of the university campus
Tertiary institutions are usually much bigger places than your high school was, so it's worth taking time to familliarise yourself with the campus and the various areas.
Get to know where everything is; the places to eat, lecture halls, the offices and your classrooms so that you know where you need to go at all times.
Read more: Failed matric? Here are your options
3. Learn to use the library in semester one
Remember how we said no one is going to help you study? Well, the library is your one resource. Using it properly is something I wish I had done in my first year of varsity. There is nothing more painful than learning how to do proper research, but there's no way around it. All those boring citation rules and research strategies are important.
Most university libraries offer orientation so take some time and attend, it will pay off!
4. Exchange email addresses with the person sitting next to you
But only if they seem like they’re serious about their studies, because some days you will miss class and this is the easiest way to catch up.
Read more: 5 careers that don’t necessarily require maths
5. Be obsessed with the requirements to graduate
Graduating is the main goal after all, so try to meet with a programme counsellor at least twice a year just to make sure you’re on the right track.
Some students end up having to take an extra year and others get stuck because they didn’t realise that the courses required for graduation may only be there for one semester - often in the beginning of the year.
It’s important to keep checking your performance.
It's great to meet new people and make new friends, so immerse yourself in the social activities but don't forget to work hard. You're an adult now.
Good luck!
Read more:
8 things I learnt as an intern
5 high paying SA jobs you don’t need a degree for
