10 tips for a smooth start to university life

THE transition from school to university can be challenging as you are suddenly your own boss.

MARYANNE ISAAC

WHETHER you attended from a small community-based high school where everyone knew each other or a large school, the transition to university can be daunting.

Change is part of life and growth, and integrating into a university environment also helps shape your career.

“Once at university, students should make the most of what’s on offer for first-year students. Join clubs, get a peer buddy who has already successfully navigated the first year, attend all lectures, life skills workshops, familiarise yourself with the environment and facilities, get to know the important places and people, make friends and don’t be afraid to ask for help,” says Angeline Stephens, psychologist and manager of the College of Humanities, UKZN.

With lockdown regulations still in place, social activities will slightly different – remember to wear your mask.

South Africa has more than 20 public universities and many private colleges.

Stephens advises that you give yourself time to plan and don’t leave registration to the last minute. Registration dates differ depending on the institution and your choice of degree.

According to Career Wise, universities want to see you succeed, and every student is important, but they do not offer the same support structures as your high school.

“It will be up to you to take charge of your university experience and motivate yourself to think and work independently.”

Here are a few guidelines to help you navigate a tertiary education environment.

1. Check your application status within your chosen institute and note down important dates for registration and first-day orientation. Google calendar is an easy and reliable tool for important reminders.

2. University correspondence will clearly indicate the dates you are expected to register on and what documents are needed for registration. Make sure that you have a registration flip file or an A4 envelope to store these.

3. Read through all university correspondence and familiarise yourself with the guidelines and faculty handbook so you know which subjects you will be able to choose. The more you know, the more informed your subject choice will be.

4. If you’re studying away from your home town or city, make your travel arrangements in advance and ensure your application for student residence has been confirmed.

5. If you have secured a bursary, liaise with your sponsor company or person to ensure payment is made on time for registration and find out about the pay allowances.

6. From an academic point of view, you will need to motivate yourself and attend all your lectures and tutorials. Try not to miss important lectures as it can be difficult to play catch-up in a new environment.

7. Get to know your lecturers and form support structures with your peers.

8. Manage your time and challenge yourself intellectually. Apart from your lectures, do independent research in your chosen field to stay one step ahead.

9. Select a career you will enjoy and find stimulating and that matches your personality, interests and aptitude.

10. Read up on the local and national ‘gaps’ within the employment sector. How do these relate to your interests?