Ace Your First Year: Tips from Upper-Year Students
Starting university can feel overwhelming, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can thrive during your first year. Upper-year students have shared their insights to help you navigate this exciting new chapter. Here’s how to make the most of your time at Saint Mary’s University and set yourself up for success!
- Learn how to manage your time
Managing your social, academic, and extracurricular activities in university is widely considered one of the biggest obstacles for underclassmen. That’s why creating an organizational system that works for you is so important. With the extra freedom come extra responsibilities in university. So, experiment! Pick and choose different resources to manage time and attend SMU’s various student workshops to become a time management master.
- Make your classes a #1 priority
This one seems like an obvious tip, but you’d be surprised at how many students slowly start to neglect their classes as the semester progresses. It would be best if you aimed for perfect attendance in all your classes. This might seem like overkill, but attending your lectures is one of the best ways to retain knowledge on the course. The professor might even drop important information about an upcoming midterm or exam while in class. It would be best if you also remembered that hefty sum of money to attend university. Don't let your opportunities go to waste!
- Establish a good connection with your professors
Maintaining a polite and mature distance from professors does not mean that you should be afraid of their position. True, they have publications, degrees, and bookshelves abounding, but they are there to support your success! Consider them as your advocates and build a relationship with them. Who knows? It might even land you with an opportunity to study or work for them.
- Know where your University Supports are
As a new student or a returning student, you might not be aware of the various resources we have available on the SMU campus. From the Peer Coaches to the you need to become familiar with all the campus supports because you never know what may happen. University is a very twisting and winding road full of potholes; the campus resources will help you throughout your journey. Be sure to check out SMU’s resource list and reach out should you need to.
- Cultivate Those Connections
Living on campus is an overwhelming experience with diverse students from various backgrounds. Despite the differences, it's important to focus on shared interests and approach people with an open mind. Create a close-knit group, like a new family, and have a strong support system to navigate the challenges.
Conclusion
University can seem like a daunting task but if you learn to manage your time and form connections with your peers and professors, you’ll be a campus connoisseur in no time.