Catherine O'Connor: Your Journey to University: New Challenges
Many thoughts will occupy your mind as you prepare for university.
Will I make new friends?
Will I fit in?
Will I be academically able for my chosen course of study?
You may also be worried about moving away from home and from the familiar setting and routine of your last years at school. Going to university is one of the biggest transitions you will make in life. Rest assured that most of your concerns will pass without too much complication and you will welcome a fresh and exciting start on a new journey of growth and development, from both personal and academic perspectives. A successful transition is about taking ownership of that journey; read on for our top tips to help you do just that!
Communication Channels
At school, the relationship was between you, your parents and the school. At university it’s between you and the university and your parents will be depending on a healthy relationship with you to let them know how you are getting on. Each university (and course of learning) will have its own unique way of communicating with you, likewise each lecturer will too.
Handouts
Every course has a handbook to guide you through the academic year. It is vital to read your course handbook to find out key information including dates, deadlines, examinations and what supports and services are available to you. It will also guide you regarding absences from university and the key people/offices you should contact. You will need to visit and revisit this handbook regularly.
Fitting in Socially
University life is more than an academic experience. The pressures of making new friends can bring on anxieties and fears. Fresher’s week is an exciting and eventful week in which you will be introduced to university life, sports, clubs and societies. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people from a variety of cultures and interests and to form lasting friendships. Attend as many events as you can, whether virtually or on campus.
Finances
Attending university is expensive and funding can often be a major issue for students as costs continue to rise. It is important that you create a clear budget and more importantly that you stick to it. Financial pressures fuel anxiety.
"Will I make new friends?" "Will I fit in?"
"Will I be academically able for my chosen course of study?"
Managing the Learning Process
To be successful at university you need to be proactive and take ownership and responsibility for your own learning. Universities provide supports for students as they become self-directed learners and critical and independent thinkers. Find out what is available to you and make use of workshops and seminars. Talk to your tutor if you are finding things overwhelming.
Homesickness
Most students suffer some homesickness when they move to university, missing the daily exchanges at school, community and home. Getting involved in clubs and societies will help you overcome this. There are also endless volunteering opportunities. There is something to suit every student. Try to find what suits your needs.
Believe in Your Own Ability
Anxiety about academic performance and achievement is normal. Almost all students, whether top or bottom of the class, go through an anxious time trying to settle into a new way of learning and assessment. You have come this far, don’t stop now. Things will seem very strange at first: new structures, new people, new systems. Read your handbook, attend everything and push your social boundaries to make friends.
Know Yourself
It is important to understand your strengths and weaknesses, to know your confidants, to know when you are comfortable in situations and when you feel threatened. Remember there is help at hand at every university for all situations whether you get into social, personal or academic difficulty. It’s good to talk.
Making Friends
At university, you will meet many new people and make lifelong friends and networks. Adopt positive people. Be kind and it will be repaid in abundance. Your friends will shape and define your student experience and be a source of joy and comfort to you on your journey.
Mind and Body
A healthy diet, regular physical exercise and good sleep hygiene will serve you well. Try to take some downtime from technology and allow your mind to rest.
Make things happen
Going to university is about becoming part of a new community, taking control and responsibility and making informed decisions.
Be your own driver in all that you do.
Catherine O’Connor is an Education Consultant and Author with 25 years’ experience at Trinity College Dublin in research, teaching and latterly as Head of External Relations at the School of Computer Science & Statistics. She engages regularly with other universities, National Adult Literacy Association and Further Education and Training Boards. She is also a regular contributor to TV, Radio, online and print media as subject expert in transition to higher education, career development and the future of work. Learn more at her websites: www.catherineoconnor.uk (UK) and www.catherineoconnor.ie (IE).
Surviving Your First Year at University, by Catherine O'Connor with Liz Thomas, is available for puchase now.