5 TIPS TO HELP YOU GET THROUGH THE FIRST YEAR OF VARSITY

Starting your university career is an exciting adventure, a learning curve, and an essential part of your life. While this change might come as an exciting one, it is also important to remember that it will come with having to make some lifestyle changes that will not always be as easy. From learning to adapt to a new environment where you’ll need to make new friends, to meeting academic expectations and becoming independent.

Natasha Madhav, Senior Head of Programme: Faculty of ICT at The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE), says: “You have already demonstrated that you can get this far and deal with everything Covid and the lockdowns have thrown at you. You are already set up for success with your newly developed resilience and grit. Use these new skills to maintain your momentum. Don’t drop your resolve now, but rather give it your all.”

We have compiled a few practical tips, to help you keep your mental health in check and navigate through this important journey in the first few months of being a “newbie”:

You are probably thinking of the exciting things that tertiary life has to offer. It is important to enjoy the experience but first and foremost, remember that everything revolves around academia. The most successful students put their lectures first. Granted “you’re a big kid now”, and the responsibility is on you to take ownership of your studies. Your results will ultimately reflect the hard work you have put in.

Do not be afraid to speak up and ask questions. Lecturers are there to guide you and facilitate your learning experience. If the lecturer is going too fast or not clear enough, raise your hand and ask for clarification. Keep in mind that your questions may benefit the whole class.

Diligence is an important skill set in higher education. Do not allow the “better late than never” syndrome get to you. Draft your own study timetable and ensure that you know when assignments need to be submitted. This way you are better prepared and may even be able to submit earlier than the due date.

Feel comfortable to meet with the Student Admin staff on your campus, seeking guidance on which modules to enroll in, extra tutorials that may be available and be on top of your course map. Make sure you raise your concerns regarding your studies with the Student Admin team as early as possible.

Although the main priority of varsity is your studies, it is essential to take good care of your mental, emotional and physical health by participating in sports activities or social clubs. Take advantage of the extra-curricular activities offered to make new friends.

The bottom line is, you’ve got this! The fact that you are pursuing higher education in the first place means that you want to shape your future.