College/University Survival Guide

School is around the corner, and for many of us, that means that the grand transition from high-school to University or College starts now. So here are 7 things to keep in mind, while you make the switch.

1.       Manage your time.

It is okay to disappear sometimes and make the library (or any other quiet area) your place. Reading ahead and brainstorming for work is good. It gives you time to complete assignments on time. Get things out of the way, so that you won’t have to scramble around near deadlines and give in poor quality work.

2.       Make time for friends and for meeting new people.

University/College is a great place for networking because believe it or not you’re going to need these people in the future and more than half of them will be your colleagues or working mates in the working world. So play nice, and make friends!

3.       Be stylish, trendy and unique but NOT RIDICULOUS.

Dress for success and with sense… it’s not a runway show. However, how you present yourself is very important as it speaks volumes on who you are before you even open your mouth; so ensure you make time for yourself and maintaining your look.

4.       Get involved.

Whether it’s your first or final year it is never too late to become active in your school. Join a club or two and don’t be afraid to nominate yourself for certain roles of responsibility. As long as you manage your time well (please see tip 1) responsibility and involvement shouldn’t be a burden, but a blast.

5.       Keep your mind open.

College/University is a place of diversity and it’s the opportune time to branch out and learn about the variety of things the world has to offer. So now isn’t the time to just stick to the old things you know and curl up in a shell. Put yourself out there and get in the adventure (try a party or two but don’t overdo it).

6.       Still stay focused

It’s great to keep an open mind, but while doing that, remember to keep your goals at the forefront of your mind, so that you don’t get sidetracked and taken completely off course by the wonders of your new environment.

7.       Strike A Balance

A healthy balance between fun and work needs to be found and it’s your job to find it. At the end of your University/College experience, you should be able to leave with pleasant memories and good friendships, as well as your degree! Certainly, those memories shouldn’t just be of the lamp on your table being too dull while you tried to study your nights away; so find time to have fun and make awesome memories with the great people you’ll meet.