Make the Most out of Your First Year of University

Going back to school can feel extremely daunting at first, especially if you’re starting university or college. You’ll quickly realize that it isn’t as scary as it seems, which is why I’m sharing my tips on how to make the most out of your first year in university.

Personally, I have always loved going back to school, but after I graduated high school I was extremely nervous about starting university. No longer would I have the same schedule as my friends or see them all the time. Most of my friends weren’t even going to the same school as me.

The first day of school was the most nervous I had been in a while. Would I meet new people? Or, would I have to sit alone at lunch every day? Would I like my classes? Would I get lost? These are all questions I had, and I’m sure many freshmen have as well.

I am here to give my best advice and tips to answer them! Here are 9 ways that you can face your fears and make the most out of your first (or second or third or fourth) year!

⇨ Everyone is just as nervous as you are

Remember, you are not the only one who is starting their first year, and returning students get nervous too! Everyone is experiencing something new, whether it be a new school or a new class. Take some deep breaths, don’t let the nerves get to you, and fake it until you make it. No one will know how nervous you are if you don’t show it. After a while, you’ll realize there was nothing to be nervous about at all.

⇨ Get used to being alone

In high school, there’s a ton of pressure to always be surrounded by friends whether it be in classes, at lunch, or during free time. Sitting alone is often seen as “uncool” and definitely makes you feel left out or isolated. However, it’s a whole different story when you’re in university.

Independence is a huge factor for university students. Sometimes your schedules with your friends don’t match up and you don’t have the same free time together, so there are days where you will have to eat lunch or study alone. And, it’s not a big deal!

It may feel a bit weird at first, but no one will even think twice if you’re sitting by yourself on campus. After a while, you may even enjoy sitting alone.

⇨ Get involved!

The best way to meet new people and show school spirit is to get involved! Join a club or attend events put on by the student union! Not only will you have a ton of fun, but you will feel like you are getting involved and really making the most out of your year. And, there may even be clubs that relate to your major which is a great way to gain experience in your field. Plus, it’ll look great on a resume!

⇨ Sit next to people you think you could be friends with

The best way to make friends is to sit next to people you think you will get along with in class. No matter what, always make at least one friend in each class because you never know when you might have to miss class and need someone to send you notes. Having a friend will also make the class more enjoyable, and you may even stay friends after the semester is over!

⇨ Take advantage of what’s included in your tuition

Many people don’t realize it, but oftentimes your tuition includes perks like a gym membership or a bus pass. Use them!

I was so scared to go to the gym my first year and it is something I definitely regret. You’re already paying for it, so you might as well get the most out of it. Take a fun fitness class or go to the pool with friends. Going to the gym is also a great stress reliever during exam periods.

Your tuition might also include a bus pass, which is great even if you don’t regularly take the bus. You never know when you and your friends might want to take an impulsive trip off-campus and giving up your parking stall can be a nightmare.

Sometimes, schools even give out free tickets to sports games as well. Check out what you are paying for and make the most out of it!

⇨ Do your readings!

This one sounds like common sense, but it is something that lots of people don’t do. Always stay on top of your readings because sometimes professors will use textbook material on exams, but won’t go over it in class. And, there are a few professors who check and will give extra credit for those who do the readings and take notes.

Not only should you do the readings, but try your best to stay on top of the readings. At first, your course load will seem light, but once you get a few weeks into the semester you’ll have assignments and readings due all at the same time in every class. Once you get behind, it’s harder to stay on track.

Write down everything you need to have done and schedule your time accordingly so you can stay on top of everything and succeed academically!

⇨ Wait to buy your textbooks

It’s always a smart idea to wait until after the first class to buy your textbooks because sometimes you don’t even need them.

The first class is always an introductory class where you go over the syllabus and talk about the course. Your professor will let you know if you need the book or not before you waste hundreds of dollars on it.

If you do need the textbook, then always buy it used. The bookstore offers used textbooks, but you can also see if your school has a used book exchange group on Facebook. Amazon is also a great resource for cheap used textbooks.

⇨ Don’t skip your classes! Even your 8 AM’s

This one goes hand-in-hand with keeping on top of your readings. No matter how tired you are and no matter how much you don’t want to go sit in that boring class that you hate, you should. Skipping class is a terrible habit to break, and even if you feel like you don’t learn anything, just being in class is helping you absorb information.

⇨ Make equal time for schoolwork and socializing

You’ve probably heard that your academics should take priority over everything else, but I don’t believe that to be the case. Yes, your grades should be a top priority, but if they are the only thing you focus on then you will miss out on so many life-changing moments and you will burn yourself out.

The best way to go about prioritizing school and your social life is a balance. A professor once told my class that we should have equal amounts of studying and socializing every week to keep ourselves sane and healthy.

Don’t go overboard and think that because you go to class every day than you can spend every night partying. Balance everything out so that if you, for example, have a midterm on a Monday then you study the days prior to the weekend so that you can spend the weekend with your friends.

It is possible to have fun and get good grades, you just have to work for it.