Meet People.

It’s your first year. It’s also hundreds of other students’ first years. So meet them. Why? Because it only gets harder. It’s tough going through first-year of post-secondary in a new environment without buddies you can lean on throughout the journey. It may be scary, intimidating, or out of your comfort zone, but go out and meet as many people as you can. And if you feel totally awks in a box, it’s okay; just get involved in school clubs, events, and committees that you have an interest in and bam, you have something in common to talk about.

If You Have Class, Go to Class.

Why? Because you don’t want to be the one that flunked out first year. Think of this as an “undercover self-discipline exam” that no one tells you about and it’s not during exam time—it’s all year. Also, it’s not a pass or fail kind of thing; it’s a “you’ll be kicked out” kind of thing. Besides, I hear it’s a great place to learn things and meet people!

“You probably should have taken advantage of that during the beginning and middle stages of puberty.”

Work Smart, Play Smart.

Why? Because if this is not balanced, there can be some major consequences. Now, I’m not saying this will be difficult, but this is one of those things that may take some time to figure out. Once you do, accept it. Go with what works for you. You’ll notice that school becomes a lot less stressful and having fun becomes a lot more… fun! A tip to guide you in the right direction: plan it out. If you know you’re going out for the weekend, make sure you complete your assignments and readings. You’ll be doing yourself a favour because when you go out, you won’t have this huge weight on your shoulders preventing you from truly having fun. And no, it doesn’t matter how much you lift, bro. That weight will still be there.

You Probably Don’t Need to Consume That Much of Everything.

Why? Because the “Freshman 15” is not a myth. Just because you’re in post-secondary doesn’t mean your stomach can have three times the meals you used to have in high school. You probably should have taken advantage of that during the beginning and middle stages of puberty. Also, just because you’re in post-secondary doesn’t mean you’re immune to unlimited alcohol consumption: know your own limits. You don’t want to be that guy/girl. Too much of anything will make you and your body feel incredibly uncomfortable—I’m just sayin’—but it’s your call.

Be Yourself.

Why? Because in case you hadn’t heard, an original is always worth more than a copy. At the end of every day, you’re not living for anyone else but you, so do what makes you happy and excited about life.

Photo courtesy: Tulane Public Relations

Thanks to our friends at Jobpostings for sharing these student tips. If you have any tips that will help first-years, let us all know in the comments.