Thiery shares his list of university dos and don'ts to help you through your journey at the University of Portsmouth.
So, you’re going to uni, congratulations. Your family, friends and acquaintances have probably filled your mind with stories of how it will be. The friends you will make, the groups you will join, ideas you will have. Their stories have probably also come with a list of dos and don’ts for you.
Here the list of the dos and don’ts, I wish I knew in my first year. And as Bruce Lee once said: “Adapt what is useful, reject what is useless, and add what is specifically your own”, so take what is helpful to you and add your own twist.
- Do organise yourself. With a trillion things to do and only 24 hours each day, it is easy to get lost. So, make a note of your priorities, add your deadlines to your calendar, and at the end of each day tick off what you have accomplished.
- Don’t overthink it. Many come to uni with a purpose, others are not sure of their next steps. Either way, enjoy it and don’t compare yourself with others.
- Do de-stress. Whether it’s painting, reading, running, or gaming, find time to do relaxing activities - but don’t drift off into a game and forget to submit an assignment. The frequency should depend on your schedule.
- Don’t remain in a bubble. Some of you might be leaving home for the first time, going to a different city or country where you don’t know anyone. It is only normal that you get homesick, don’t worry and don’t isolate yourself. Whenever I get homesick, I remember why I am at university. I have met so many exciting characters, done the craziest things and gone to mind-blowing places. Reaching out to those back home also helps but my advice would be not to overdo it.
- Do sleep. Staying up for two days straight with no sleep won’t earn you a medal. Instead, you will probably crash. Download a sleep calendar and try to get at least 7 hours a day.
- Don’t skip seminars. I think this one is self-explanatory, but it is a worthy addition. At seminars lecturers will explain topics in detail and maybe even introduce topics that were not in the reading. Plus you get to meet others on your course. Some of my lecturers even gave hints of what would come in the exams or assignments. Bottom line, try and attend as many seminars as possible.
- Do be curious. University provides an environment for you to discover the world and yourself. Ask questions, keep an open mind, and learn. You are here to learn and make unforgettable memories (and have fun).
The goal is to make university your own. So I would encourage you to create a note titled “Dos and Don’ts” and, as you go through your journey, give yourself advice and look back.
Enjoy your time and good luck!