How to handle the first weeks at college?

But after a few semesters, I have realised that university life is not just about lectures, studying, and exams. A big part of your experience depends on the people around you, the environment you create for yourself, and the opportunities you decide to take. 

Don’t worry if you feel lost at first

Whether it is understanding your timetable, learning how the university system works, or simply finding the right classroom, everyone feels a little confused in the beginning. Honestly, even now I sometimes stop and wonder if I am heading to the right room. 

Join the welcome event

If your faculty organises a welcome camp or orientation event, go for it. It is one of the best ways to meet new people and get an idea of what university life will be like. I am not saying that just because I helped organise one. I have seen how much it helps new students. You make friends, find people to share study materials with, and learn lots of useful tips about how everything works. 

Get Involved

During my first year, I thought university was all about studying: wake up, attend classes, go home, study, sleep, and repeat. But it does not have to be like that. There are plenty of activities and projects you can join. Get involved, meet new people, and make the most of the opportunities your university offers. Thanks to that, I now have the chance to represent my faculty at higher education fairs, such as Gaudeamus. 

Communication is key

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. At university, nobody will remind you about deadlines or responsibilities every day. You need to stay organised and keep track of things yourself.

Here are five simple tips that help me:

1. Keep a Calendar

   Write down important deadlines and check your calendar regularly. It is not enough just to save the date – you actually need to look at it!

2. Check Your University Email

   Ideally every day. I once travelled all the way to campus only to discover that a class had been cancelled because the lecturer had sent an email the night before. My mistake… but at least I got out of the house. :)

3. Ask Questions Early

   If you do not understand something, ask. Talk to your lecturers or classmates while there is still time. During the exam itself, there is usually no room for questions.

4. Create a Study Group

   Sharing notes, materials, and advice with others can make studying much easier and much more enjoyable.

5. Don’t Forget to Rest

   This is incredibly important. You might have assignments and tests piling up, but when you are stressed and exhausted, you will not learn any faster. Take a break, go for a walk, and get enough sleep. You will come back to your studies with a much clearer mind.

One Last Piece of Advice: University Is Not a Race

At the beginning, you may feel like you have to do everything perfectly. But you do not. Sometimes an exam will not go well. Sometimes you will feel overwhelmed. That is completely normal. The important thing is not to give up too quickly. Find your own pace, trust the process, and remember that everyone’s university journey is different.