Published in The Longford Leader on 25 August 2010
College. This one word strikes excitement and anticipation in some people, and a great sense of fear in others. But whether you are looking forward to this new chapter in you life, or dreading it, all first year students are in the same boat. As an experienced student, I can confirm that first year can be a little bit disorientating.
There are some huge differences between second, and third level education:
· In school, you know almost everyone. Everything is familiar. In college, you will be thrown into a sea of unknown! However there will be other young freshmen in the same boat, so I suggest you get to know them, and you can help each other out.
· You won't get in trouble for not attending lectures, or doing your homework in college. The lecturers won't care! But don't be tempted. Attendance at lectures, and completion of assignments all count in your final grade. The lecturers won't push you, because it's your life, your education, and your responsibility. So you're on your own!
· Having a laugh with teachers and friends is common in school. In college, however, there could be up to 500 students in one lecture! There's no talking to the lecturer – only listening. Tutorials are more close-knit, but there are always deadlines to get work finished.
Moving away from home is quite difficult, but there are a range of things you can do to combat home sickness:
· If you are living with other first years, get to know them. They are going through the same experiences, so talk to them.
· Call home regularly, and talk to your parents. Testing is always a good way to keep in contact with siblings.
· You may need to learn to cook for yourself. Beans on toast is quick and easy, but it gets quite boring after a while! A healthy diet is important. Eat regular meals, drink lots of water, and yes, eat the dreaded vegetables. Trust me, there's nothing worse than sitting in college, feeling sick, tired and unhealthy because of a bad diet. You're going to need to be healthy and alert if you really want to take in information. Also, there's no shame in bringing a few home-cooked meals to college, and storing them in the fridge!
· Save money. When shopping, buy the shop's own brand of food, rather than the expensive brands. Walk to college if you can. It's good exercise and will save money on buses. 2 or 3 miles isn't much! Bring a packed lunch. Food in college restaurants isn't cheap! Most importantly, make sure you get your student travel card. Facilities can be found in most colleges. This will allow you cheaper travel, and discounts in certain shops!
If I could go back to first year, there are a number of things I would change. Here are some great survival techniques to get you by:
· Attend as many activities and possible during orientation. You'll get to know people and could meet friends for life. If you don't attend many activities, it could take a while to make friends.
· If there are hundreds of people in a lecture with you, it's hard to make friends. Get to know the person next to you before the lecture begins. It can be daunting, but at least that will be a friendly face in the crowd.
· Do all your work, but have fun too. College will be where you gain most of your life experience, so treasure it and enjoy it.
· Don't plan to always stay with the same friends. Use first year to get to know new people, and have a large group of friends.
· Living with strangers can be scary, but this is an excellent way to make friends, so don't avoid house-mates!
· Join societies, clubs and sports. You are bound to meet people with similar interests to yourself!
The most important thing is to enjoy yourself. You have a new responsibility, but you also have freedom. Use this freedom to express yourself, make your own decisions, be creative. More importantly, be yourself.
25 Oct 2011
by Jessica Thompson
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