Tips for first year students to set themselves up for success
New year, new beginnings, new chapter...
As we gear up to take on the new year and that long list of goals, many students are starting off a new chapter in their lives. A chapter that pretty much sets the tone for the rest of their lives.
So we wanted to equip first year tertiary students with some valuable tips to take on during this new and sometimes daunting chapter of their lives. Natasha Madhav, senior head of programme at The Independent Institute of Education, says that first-year dropout rates are a problem in South Africa.
So, of course, these students need more guidance as they move into this rite-of-passage. Some of the reasons for dropping out includes, "the relative loss of adult supervision and institutional structure of schools and the need to work more autonomously, the increased academic demand at university, the culture shock of campus life, the temptations of the social scene, personal circumstances and a lack of support." (BizCommunity)
Of course these are all understandable, and as a country there is a lack of support when it comes to preparing high school students for the 'real' world. So we love and approve of these tips that Madhav has put forth.
Up at one, is to make sure that you are enrolled for the right qualification at the right institution. Madhav suggests answering the following questions to put your mind at ease.
- "When considering whether you have made a good decision about your studies, ask yourself the following questions:
1) Have I chosen a qualification that matches my interests and my vision for my future?
2) Has my institution been clear about the curriculum and its relevance to what is required in the industry in real life?
3) Am I clear about how my qualification will help me enter a specific field or career, or am I still vague about my prospects post-graduation?
4) Does my institution have a demonstrable track record in helping graduates bridge the gap between the world of study and the world of work?" (BizCommunity)
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Be prepared and stay up-to-date with the communications at your chosen institution. These are the things you require for each class, some information about your lecturers, any technology and readings that you need to do before kicking off the year.
"Of course for many, not all of the above will realistically be in place on day one, but by understanding where the gaps are, and what you have to work with, you can at least start out with a plan." (BizCommunity)
The last one is probably the most important.
If you haven't already sought out advice on how to best transition into student life, then it's best to start now.
Think about what you want from your time in higher education, the outcomes you wish for yourself, and the challenges that might stop you from reaching your dream. How will you handle the party life? How serious are you about attending all lectures – even 8am ones - and submitting assignments timeously? What are your daily, weekly, monthly goals and how will you ensure you reach them? Do you know where you will be able to go for assistance – emotionally or academically - at your institution should you require it?
We love the way she put things into perspective when it comes to starting this new venture in life. In fact, it doesn't just apply to new students, but to everyone starting this year off on a note of change. In place of 'studies' below, you could insert the project you are undertaking this year...
As with all things, first year students must start as they wish to finish. Don’t leave it up to fate – take control of your life and your future from the outset, so that you can step into your studies with confidence next year.
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