A successful transition to university life involves a multifaceted approach, encompassing academic adaptation, social integration, emotional well-being, practical considerations, and a flexible mindset.
Based on Corinne's experiences and Elizabeth Gillies' insights discussed in Episode 96 of the Successful Student Transitions Podcast, several crucial factors emerge:
Academic Preparedness and Adaptability
- Understanding the difference in academic demands between high school and university is paramount. Universities expect a higher level of effort and independent work.
- Choosing a course carefully and genuinely enjoying the subject matter can significantly enhance the academic experience, preventing disappointment that can lead to dropping out.
- Developing effective study habits tailored to individual needs is crucial. This includes finding suitable, distraction-free study spaces (e.g., a quiet section of the library or a preferred reading room). What works for others may not work for you, so self-discovery is key.
- Recognising and adapting to the different grading systems at university compared to high school is vital. Good grades in high school do not automatically translate to the same at university, and new students may need to learn new skills to meet the university standard. Reading feedback and grading schemes provided by lecturers is essential for academic improvement.
- Utilising available support for academic help, such as tutors or friends, is beneficial, though Corinne primarily sought feedback from friends and family.
- Understanding that "resits" (retaking exams) are common and not a sign of failure is important, as many students experience them. However, be aware that the preparation time for resits can be very limited.
Social Integration and Friendship Building
- Prioritising making friends is highly important for a positive university experience, rated by Corinne as an 8 or 9 out of 10. University offers a "fresh start" to redefine oneself socially.
- Being proactive in seeking out new connections is essential. Corinne actively looked for other students sitting alone in lectures and initiated conversations. Corinne said she had to "push myself to walk out and be more social" despite being extroverted.
- Joining societies is strongly recommended as an effective way to meet people with similar interest. Corinne notes that she probably "should have" joined societies but was busy with many other non-university related activities – one of the benefits of living at home while studying..
- Committing time and effort to forming relationships is necessary. Developing "really good friends" can take approximately five months of consistent, intense interaction (e.g., three hours at a time, repeatedly), according to research conducted by Dr Robin Dunbar cited by Elizabeth. Corinne confirmed this, explaining she actively messaged people to arrange meet-ups, which was "worth it in the end.
- Being aware that initial friendships often form in university accommodation can be a disadvantage for students staying at home.
Emotional Well-being and Self-Care
- Recognising and addressing tiredness and exhaustion is crucial. University life can be "frenetic and busy".
- Prioritising rest and self-care is vital to prevent burnout. Corinne suggests taking "alone time," going on "solo dates," or engaging in self-care activities to recharge.
- Acknowledging that "burnout is quite common" among students, often manifested as a lack of motivation, reduced effort, or not attending lectures. Taking advantage of prescribed breaks like Christmas is helpful.
- Understanding the "dip"– a period after the initial "honeymoon period" where the reality of university life sets in, the weather changes, and motivation may wane. This "roller coaster" of highs and lows is a normal part of the university experience.
- Being aware that talk of "dropping out" is often a way students cope with anxiety or difficulty, rather than a serious intention. Maybe when things are new and uncertain, holding this thought gives students a sense of control in the early days.
Practical Decisions and Mindset
- Considering accommodation choices and their implications for finances and social integration. Studying locally and therefore being able to live at home saves money and provides access to existing support networks but can make initial socialising harder if new friends are in halls.
- Choosing a university location that aligns with personal comfort and convenience can be beneficial. Staying in a familiar city or close to home can reduce the "mental preparation" needed for a completely new environment and allow students to thrive more effectively.
- Having realistic expectations about university life is key. It's important to understand that university isn't for everyone, and not having a degree doesn't imply a lack of intelligence or work ethic.
- Being willing to put in effort in all aspects– academic and social – and to "go out of your comfort zone" at least once is strongly advised for a fulfilling experience.
- Accepting that one may not always be the "well-rounded" ideal student they envisioned is part of the process; the goal is to create an experience that "suits you as a student and to hold that vision of how you want to be lightly.
In essence, navigating university successfully is like learning to sail a new boat. You need to understand its academic mechanics (the course, grading system), learn to steer its social rudder (making friends, joining societies), manage your personal energy (avoiding burnout, resting), and chart a course that suits your comfort and financial currents. It requires continuous effort, adaptation, and the wisdom to know when to push forward and when to drop anchor and recharge.
Listen to the full Episode 96: Real Talk With Corinne: What I Learned About Starting and Succeeding at University on the Successful Student Transitions Podcast HERE
Learn more about our online course Thrive in Your Transition To University, designed to support students preparing to start University HERE
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