A Recent Grad’s Top 3 Tips to University Freshmen

Originally published on www.devanginimishra.com.

University for me was no joke. So much so, that sometimes it brought me to tears. That being said, it wasn’t impossible either or I wouldn’t be writing this post.

I graduated after 5 gruelling years of writing tests that dragged my self esteem to rock bottom, losing touch with my loved ones and sleep deprivation among other things, all of which left me feeling… just average. But I also graduated after 5 precious years of learning more about myself than I had ever before, forming long lasting friendships, and surprising myself by doing things I would have never imagined, all of which left me feeling… so much more than “just average”.

The last 5 years have been such a crazy ride and now, looking back, if I could give any incoming freshman just 3 tips, these would be it:

1. University is academically challenging. First year may be more challenging than other years.

University is definitely challenging. And some disciplines ARE much more challenging than others. So be ready to face your first ever 60%, fail grade or just major slacking while you try to barely keep up.

Real Deal: You were an A+ student in school but suddenly you’re in the middle of the pack. But remember, you’re in the middle of a pack that is full of brilliant and talented minds from all over the world. Being surrounded by such people should only inspire you to improve. If your first year GPA tanks, your life won’t be ruined. High school to university transition takes time and most future employers will get this.

Word of caution: If you really notice your grades spiralling down and it starts to affect you psychologically and/or physically, make use of academic or mental health centres on campus. It might also be a good time to stop and ask yourself if you are in the program for the right reasons.

2. Grow. Say yes first, doubt your decision later.

Growth is crucial. Inside the classroom but more importantly, outside the classroom. Try things you wouldn’t have before. Join a club. Lead a team. Meet some people. Make a fool of yourself. Before you know it, you will find yourself eating wasabi sandwiches like it was Nutella (umm…maybe, not). University is your chance to wipe the slate clean and start over. And you can be whoever you want.

Real Deal: Trying new things isn’t just for fun. These will make up the experiences that will allow you to leverage yourself with potential employers. Along the way, you will also learn about yourself and develop some of strongest bonds of friendship that could last you a lifetime.

Word of caution: I said try things you wouldn’t have before but at the end of it all, don’t be a lesser version of yourself. Be smart and stay away from vices. Don’t join clubs to pad your resume. And if you are unable to juggle new activities while being consistent in your academics, just take it slow.

3. Start planning your career from Day One.

Ok, I use “Day One” metaphorically but what I really mean is ASAP. What do you want to do in life? What career do you like (at the moment)? Do you know what careers exist for your major? Do you understand the importance of relevant work experience? Is there a company you want to work for? Do you have a university-level resume? Some people might argue that first semester is too soon to think about this stuff. I would strongly disagree. While you shouldn’t obsess over it, asking yourself these questions and then seeking their answers will keep you ahead in the game.

Real Deal: Make no mistake. RELEVANT work experience is extremely important. Apart from a strong network, it is the one thing that can get you a job and maybe even make up for a weak GPA or mediocre extra-curricular activities. You cannot wait till summer to start looking for a summer job. Go offensive on your job search. Get on LinkedIn. Cold email recruiters. Talk to upper-year students, alumni, friends and family.

Word of caution: Be ready for rejection. You are only in first year and may not have the right skills just yet. Don’t be let down. Don’t lose touch with recruiters. You may also find yourself in a catch-22 situation because in order to get a job you need work experience, but to get work experience you have to get a job first. There are ways around it. Just keep at it.

Not a freshman? What university advice would you share? If you are a freshman, tell me what areas of university life you’d like to know more about. Email me or let me know in the comments section below! :) Liked the post? Share it! :)

Originally published on www.devanginimishra.com.