Tips and my personal journey in University
- Jan 1, 2017
- 2 min read
1) Should you skip class in University?
Answer:
No - Why?
You paid your tuition, so it is worthwhile to see what the professor has to say in the course. They often give hints on exams and assignments if you go to class and it sets you up to be punctual in the workplace environment. Online courses should not take priority in your schedule and should only be reserved for introductory classes or you physically can't be in class. MOOC should be the only self-learning online course you take. On another note, if you only rely on MOOC, you are less marketable and gain less experience in student group work and participation exercises with other students and the professor.
2) Should you join student clubs and associations?
Answer:
Yes
Curiosity in student clubs is what is exciting about University and it is great to meet new people. I am a really shy person coming out of high school so I forced myself to join as many student clubs and associations while in University. In addition, you should try to join athletic clubs as well to get some much needed exercise in University. I was totally out of shape in high school because I was only focusing on my studies. I joined basketball intramural, tennis, karate, archery and fitness classes while I was in Waterloo University.
3) What are some tips for surviving University?
Answer:
- sleep, getting 7 hours of sleep on average over the week is important for you health. I learnt this the hard way by staying up all night trying to study and work on assignments.
- do your readings and study regularly. I have trouble keeping up with readings but on the weeks that I did I felt I was on top of my work and I will tend to find what I don't understand and ask the TA right away.
- use the TA, there are some courses that are bound to produce more questions than answers and just relying on your notes and listening in class is not enough. You should ask and clearify with the TA or the professor if you are not sure of something. I also learnt this the hard way on one of my courses and I did really poorly.
- save money. Don't go on a spending spree during black friday or you will regret it. Don't buy books you don't need. I spent too much money on coffee =p
- help each other out. There is bound to be a friend worse off than you in certain areas of their life and better in other areas.
4) WIll I have a social life in University such as if I was in engineering?
Answer:
You often have to make opportunities and make the best of what you have in relationships. One trick I tend to use is I pair up with a really outgoing individual, which brings me out of my shell when I am around others.
5) What if I get super stressed to the point that I will do drugs or smoking?
Answer:
I personally will not do drugs or smoking, but there are many ways to destress and calm down... Some of which is exercise, play light video games, listen to calm music, take a nap, drink water, volunteer, or talk to someone face to face like your roommate.
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