Written by Geilan Nassir
You probably have or will constantly hear the question of “so how’s uni life going?” and you will probably give them an answer that you’re not sure about but give it anyway because it seems… the safest?! They say the first two years of university are the hardest and there’s no doubt about that. However, along the first two years, you also learn some really essential things, that are not just important for uni, but for life. So here’s seven of them that I learned in my first two (as a fourth year)!
Budgeting
Budgeting becomes important when you move out of home and then realise that you need not only earn a living but also watch your finances and how you spend them. So it is essential that you make wise decisions on how you spend it.
Independence
Starting university throws you into a world where you’re suddenly in charge of everything. From making your meals to managing your finances, it’s all on you. It can be extremely scary but incredibly freeing. You learn to rely on yourself, make your own decisions, and navigate life without supervision. It is a crash course in adulthood, but it’s also an opportunity to discover what you’re truly capable of when you’re calling the shots.
Setting Goals
In an academic world, setting clear goals becomes your anchor. It’s not solely based on passing exams; it’s about defining what you want to achieve academically, personally, and professionally. Breaking down big chunks into smaller, manageable tasks makes the journey less daunting.
Balance
Balance is quite a necessity. You have got to balance EVERYTHING…from studies to work and to social life and so the list goes on, but the trick is to keep balancing and keep moving. Ever seen Albert Einstein say “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”? Well now you do, keep that equilibrium.
Time Management
Not even realising, you become a pro at managing your time by the second year. From arranging your assignment and exam deadlines to work priorities, it just all happens automatically without feeling it.
Responsibility
University is like a playground…Well, a playground of freedom, but with that comes a huge responsibility. It’s about attending classes and lecture (whether online or in person), meeting deadlines, and managing your time effectively. But it’s also about taking responsibility for your actions and the consequences that may arise. This includes everything from respecting your roommates to making smart choices about your health and well-being. Learning to balance freedom with responsibility is a crucial skill that sets you up for success, not just in uni but life.
Routine/Self-care
I suppose one of the main things I have taken away from the first two years is the absolute necessity of routine and self-care. It’s easy to get swept up in your studies, work, and social life, but neglecting your well-being a recipe for disaster. I’ve thought myself to carve out specific times for exercise, hobbies, and relaxation, treating them as non-negotiable appointments. These small acts of self-care do make a HUGE difference in the overall happiness and academic performance. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury; it’s a vital part of succeeding in in university and in life.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
