Beyond the classroom
Make the leap from high school to university a success.
University is a whole different experience from high school due to a shift in expectations and the results that come with it, making it overwhelming for many students. As a fellow University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) student, many challenges pushed me out of my comfort zone and urged me to rethink how I approached academics, social life, and personal growth. Unlike high school, where assignments were often quick write-ups and time management was more straightforward, university life required a significant shift in how I balanced priorities and managed my time.
One of the most significant differences between high school and university is the level of responsibility that is placed on students. In high school, I could get away with completing assignments the night before they were due, and still managed to receive a good grade. However, university requires a higher level of commitment and discipline. Suddenly, I had to juggle multiple assignments, exams, and lecture readings while managing my social life and well-being.
At UTM, I had to develop new habits. I learned to approach my assignments and tasks step-by-step, and to create schedules that helped me stay on track. This change along with creating realistic goals stopped me from being overwhelmed by the work and expectations. Success in university is not all about academic achievements, however. For me, academic success means persevering through challenges and learning from past mistakes. It’s about making concrete steps to improve, whether that involves attending professors’ or TAs’ office hours, joining Facilitated Study Groups (FSGs), or seeking tutoring. Understanding the material thoroughly and being proactive about addressing areas of weakness are key components of academic success. All of this begins with the choice to take initiative, even when it’s easier to be stuck on old, familiar routines.
On the professional side, success means getting involved in campus life through clubs, work-study programs, internships, and various research opportunities. These experiences are incredibly helpful in building a strong resume and developing skills that you can use in your future career. Or you can use them to simply learn about yourself, which is equally as important. In my experience, I found that taking on leadership roles in student organizations not only improved my professional skills but also helped grow my network.
Social success is equally important yet oftentimes undervalued. University can be stressful, and having a supportive group of friends can help you stay motivated. Finding a balance between work and social life supports your mental well-being and helps you balance your academic life.
Personal success, meanwhile, is about self-satisfaction and fulfillment. It’s the feeling you get when you achieve your goals, whether that’s acing a difficult course, improving your study habits, or simply finding a hobby that reduces stress. For me, personal success is about being happy with where I am and feeling confident in my abilities as a student.
One aspect of university life that many new students underestimate is the importance of building connections. Creating relationships with professors and TAs can open doors to a host of professional outlets, and attending office hours and actively participating in class can help you stand out and make an impression. In fact, a friend of mine, who regularly attended a professor’s office hours, was later offered a research position in the professor’s lab. In addition, even though LinkedIn seems intimidating, it is another excellent tool for building connections, allowing you to network with professionals and showcase your goals and achievements.
During the first few months of university, it’s important to test out different study methods, environments, and schedules to find what works best for you. This can include discovering your study routine by trying out active recall, spaced repetition, or studying in the quiet area of the library.
Surrounding yourself with a strong support system is the next important tip. Your friends can motivate and encourage you, helping you stay focused on your goals while also providing the emotional support you need during stressful times. Or they can distract, drain, and mislead you. It’s crucial to pick your friends wisely. Additionally, setting clear academic, professional, and personal goals will give you a blueprint to start off with. Getting through university at such a time of growth requires adaptability and perseverance, as one should be flexible and open to change.
The transition from high school to university is a big leap that invites many unfamiliar and daunting challenges, and that’s okay! However, with time, the right mindset, and strategies, you can overcome these challenges. Success at university involves managing your time effectively, building strong connections, and being proactive about your goals. This will help you find your way through university successfully and make the most of your experience at UTM.
