As a new school year is starting, I couldn’t help but reflect on some things I wish someone had told me when I was starting first year. Here are the top 5 things I wish I knew when I was in first year:
1. Go to Clubs Days and actually talk to people!
The University of Waterloo has ‘Clubs and Societies Days’ every term where many clubs will be on display with members in the Student Life Center (SLC) Great Hall. This Fall 2018 term, the days are scheduled to be on Thursday, September 20th and Friday, September 21st from 11am-3pm on both days. By going to Clubs and Societies Days you can meet other students that share similar interests and potentially make life-long friendships.
If you’re like me and you like to be prepared, check out the following link to view all of the Clubs and Societies available to join at uWaterloo: https://feds.ca/clubs/listing. Don’t see a group that interests you? You can form your own club/society with the help of FEDs.
2. Create a budget.
If you don’t already know how, learning to create a budget (and actually sticking to it) is a really important life skill. Having a budget can help you stay on track financially and ultimately lower some stress or anxieties you may be experiencing related to money.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
No matter what it’s for, please never be afraid to ask for help. I am by no means an expert, but no one should have to struggle alone. There are many resources offered on campus and I encourage everyone to take advantage! Some examples include: tutoring, study groups, UWMATES, counselling, and much more!
4. Have an open mind (about everything).
Some things to keep an open mind about include classes, people, and experiences! While academics are important, it’s also important to meet new people, make friendships, network, and have experiences!
5. Open your books!
Some people will purchase a course mandated textbook and not even open it! There’s a lot of really great information in them and they wouldn’t be listed as a required textbook if the professor didn’t believe it would be useful.
Photo Sources: Photo 1, Photo 2, Photo 3, Photo 4, Photo 5