The warm welcome back to university is always a great feeling, but this year, as I’m nearing the end of my undergrad, that warmth comes with a big sense of relief—knowing it’s almost over. For those of you starting out, the journey ahead might feel daunting. So, I thought I’d pass along some advice that I’ve picked up along the way.
First off, relax and be yourself. Yes, it’s a cliché, but when you’re stressed and nervous, it’s hard to think clearly and you might miss out on important things. Whether you’re coming straight from high school or returning to university after some time away, the key is to embrace the experience and let go of who you think you need to be. In high school, you might have acted a certain way to fit in, but university is your chance to rediscover yourself. If you don’t, your university experience might feel like an extension of high school. This is your opportunity to start fresh and explore who you truly are.
Another piece of advice: join clubs or student organizations. Don’t limit yourself to just one—explore different options! Whether it’s Debate Club, the Fencing Society, or the Chemistry Club, joining multiple groups is a great way to find your crowd. If you don’t enjoy one, move on and try another. Don’t let your major define your extracurricular activities. University is about exploration, and by trying new things, you’ll gain a clearer sense of what you truly enjoy. A university experience without participating in at least one club or group is a missed opportunity.
Next, you’ll need to learn how to handle stress, judgment, disappointment, and regret. These emotions will pop up at different times during your university journey, sometimes all at once—especially around finals. Developing a solid coping strategy early on is essential to managing the demands of university life.
Another great tip is to find a mentor. Having someone older and wiser to guide you can be invaluable. When I was at Coast Mountain College, I became friends with someone much older than me, and our friendship has shaped who I am today. The life lessons I learned from him are things I carry with me every day. Like me, you should seek out your own “Obi-Wan Kenobi” to help you navigate university.
Lastly, find a buddy. While university isn’t a war zone, having a friend going through the same experiences can be comforting. You’ll face challenges like changing majors, breakups, disagreements with colleagues, and even the occasional failed class. Having someone to lean on during these times will make the tough moments easier to manage.
