CAMPUS COMPASS Campus Survival Guide
ACING YOUR FIRST ASSIGNMENT Completing your first assignment in university might seem daunting or even downright terrifying. However, you have nothing to fear as coursesmalaysia has outlined some study tips to help you survive the first assignment of your tertiary education.
Consultation and assistance Once you’ve received your assignment, make sure you read and understand the questions thoroughly before attempting to answer. The best first-step is to discuss with your course mates. This is a great way to exchange ideas and will help you better understand your assignment! It is also the perfect opportunity to interact and gain some new friends. However, if you are still in doubt, look up the lecturer who assigned you the work. Lecturers are often receptive and would be more than willing to assist a student who shows initiative. Identify the sections that you are unclear about in the assignment, and make an appointment (this is a CRUCIAL step) to meet your lecturer. Do not hesitate to approach them out of fear or shyness as you will be the one on the losing end. Another group of people you can turn to for help are your seniors. After all, they have already gone through the problems that you are facing now and survived. Approach them for advice and quick pointers. If needed, borrow their notes and work samples to serve as reference but NEVER attempt to plagiarise or copy their work. Learn, not leech, from them.
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Test of time As a freshman in university, you might be tempted to spend your first year exploring the new environment around you, meeting new friends and embracing your newfound independence. However, remember to prioritise, so to not neglect your studies. Most first year students tend to find themselves stumped with a heavy workload during their first semester. This is partly due to them trying to adjust to the new education system, as well as completing the number of subjects or credits they are expected to fulfill. It is very unlikely that you will only have a single assignment for the semester, hence, it would be best if you plan and work ahead of time. A good practice is to allocate sufficient time for each of your assignments. Follow and commit yourself to the schedule you’ve created and avoid starting your assignment only at the eleventh hour! Remember, make sure time is constantly on your side and use it to your advantage.