First-year in university is one of the most confusing moments for students. You are coming from a system where you were regarded as a senior but are now a junior. You also feel as though you have all your life ahead of you. The freedom of being away from parents and guardians could also be a delicate trap. Â
The start you make in your first year will determine your trajectory to the end. Some students maximize their potential before others can even settle. You may get an idea ‘I would like to pay someone to do my homework in college to allow me to focus on other chores and opportunities.
It must be noted that all first-year students do not take the same trajectory. Every day is an opportunity to make the most out of your first year and college life. Here are valuable tips for first-years to hack college, and especially take advantage of the opportunities university life offers.
- Start planning your exit
A first-year student feels the air of freedom from day-1. This feeling is deceitful and will result in one of the most catastrophic failures. You think you have four years ahead yet each day brings you closer to the exit. The wise students begin plotting their exit on the first day. It comes out of the realization that each minute you spend on campus is bringing you closer to your graduation.
The ultimate goal at exit is to graduate with honors. The best planning you can do about it is to attend classes and complete your assignments. However, there is more to exit than earning a certificate. Begin looking at corporations and businesses that require your services. Check whether they offer internships while you are still in college to familiarize yourself with the work environment.
Part of preparing for your exit is sharpening your skills. While everyone will graduate with a degree, what additional skills will give you an edge? Talk to your seniors and career guidance personnel. By the time you will graduate in the final year, you will be more prepared for the industry, and especially competitive.
Build a believable personality. Polish your interaction skills. Be more organized and diligent with your skills. You may also choose to exit college as an entrepreneur. Begin learning what all these exit routes require. You have more time and opportunities in the first year to plan a smooth exit than when you start the journey in the final year.
- Balance your lifestyle
First-year does not involve a lot of studying. Most of the courses are introductory and a reminder of what you may have covered in high school. It leaves you with a lot of time for social and personal engagements.
Some students report to university with the mentality of spending all their time in the library. While you are expected to pursue academic work, you also need a social life and personal development. Create time to join the athletics team, form social relationships, develop personal talent, and such engagements that give you a holistic life. It will be boring and stressful to spend all your life holed in the library.
- Studies first
While you are advised to strike a study-life balance, your academic pursuit takes priority. Sleep all you wish. Party as much as you can afford. However, you must be up-to-date with your academic work.
Complete your assignments on time. Attend lectures. Sit for exams. Participate in discussion groups and projects. If your academic boxes are correctly ticked, you can turn to social and personal engagements without fear.
- Get more than a degree
College is not a place to pursue singular goals. Beyond academic pursuit, you must chase other skills and opportunities. Network with alumni and professional bodies to increase your attractiveness in the market. Form social and academic groups that you can extend to other aspects of your life.
The bonds you create in college will be stronger and valuable once you graduate. Some of the best business partners will come from your friends on campus. You will also meet your future employer through student engagements. Take advantage of such opportunities and the degree will be a rider.
First-year offers numerous opportunities when harnessed. Get the best research paper topics in your essays and enjoy a rewarding college experience. Learn from your seniors even as you set your path. Take full advantage of opportunities at every step in college and you will multiply your potential in the end.
