Congratulations! You did it! You made it to the school of your choice, moved into residence, and sat in your first-year university lectures! Life is great… or is it?
Transitioning from high school to post-secondary is hard. You’ve worked your butt off to get to this point and sometimes it might not meet your expectations. You’re not alone! It might not seem like it but there are many doubts and insecurities students around you are feeling too—we have all been there! Take a second to breathe through it and focus on one step at a time.
Grades
You worked hard in high school to get into your post-secondary school, but your grades have dropped… a lot. It’s not the end of the world! Most first-year university students find that grades can drop as much as 20% lower. Professors are trying to challenge you as much as possible and this is, unfortunately, one of the ways that they do this. It’s a well-intended kick in the butt but it does hurt when you’re on the receiving end. Try to learn from your consistent mistakes and remember that each professor is different!
Home
Feeling like a small fish in a big sea? It might feel like you’re all alone but keep in mind that everyone around you is doing the same thing. They’ve left their families and friends back home to set off on this first-year university adventure too. This is the time in your life that’ll introduce you to friends you’ll know in 20 years and some that you’ll avoid like the plague. So don’t be shy, put yourself out there! Something will click with someone and then you’ll forget to be homesick.
Competition
Your first-year university experience is great, but there’s no denying that there’s a level of competition that is DIFFERENT from high school. Maybe that will push you harder or you’ll worry more, but every person moves at a different pace. Don’t compare yourself to other people because success isn’t constant! Don’t be discouraged by other students’ success! And don’t be too proud to reach out if you need help!
Yourself
People CHANGE when they leave high school. That is totally okay, but it’s also okay to not change everything. You’re a unique person that has unique things about you. Take this opportunity to be proud of the things that make you special and own them. Furthermore, do not let your individuality be intimidated by the new environment that a university or college presents. Learn to love yourself as you are and I guarantee that you’ll be much happier for it!
