Newswise — University can be one of the most exciting -- and nerve-wracking -- times for any new student. Here are some handy tips on how to make the most of out of your first year at university or college:
Reasons to Get Involved• Getting involved in university activities is not only fun, but the more involved students are in creating their experience the greater effect it has on their success.• Students that are more engaged in university life have been shown to be more satisfied with their university experience, more likely to report personal growth and development and more likely to graduate.• Extracurricular activities give you a creative outlet to deal with and help reduce the stress of academic demands.• Employers are looking for well-rounded employees. Student life can beef up your resumé and give you skills you might not learn in the classroom, such as: leadership, event management and interpersonal skills.• Practise your work/life balance which will become crucial when you move into the workforce permanently.• Save money by entertaining yourself with free on-campus activities.
Ways to Get Engaged• Participate in a study group• Talk with a faculty member outside of class for more than 10 minutes• Make friends in your classes• Join a student club• Start your own club• Run for an elected position (student government/institutional committees)• Try out for a varsity team• Live in residence• Write for the student paper• Work at the campus radio/TV station• Attend campus events• Take a group class at the gym• Become a peer tutor• Get an on-campus job• Find and use your campus multi-faith space• Attend Orientation Week / Welcome Week events• Check to see if your school has a student life/club fair to check out all your options
Making Friends• Reach out. Initiate conversations. Smile. Invite someone to study with you or join you for a coffee or lunch. Join a club or an activity group. Volunteer with a campus or community organization.• Share. Talk about your experiences, interests, ideas, passions. Let your enthusiasm show.• Ask questions. Be curious and intrigued about other people and their lives and interests.• Be positive. Let people know when you enjoy or appreciate their company or something they do.• Risk trying something new. Attempt something you have often wanted to do but have never tried. Try something you might be interested in, even something you might never have thought yourself capable of doing.
Getting Along With Roommates
Eliminate potential future arguments on day one by:• Making a cleaning schedule.• Making a quiet hours schedule (for sleeping, studying, etc.).• Defining which belongings are private vs. shared.• Being clear about allergies.• Discussing daily routines (exercises, religious ceremonies, etc.).
Experts available for interviews:
Martin M. Antony, PhD, Professor, Department of Psychology, and author, Shyness and Social Anxiety Workbook and 10 Simple Solutions to Shyness: How to Overcome Shyness, Social Anxiety, and Fear of Public Speaking
Glen Weppler, Director, Student Community LifeRyerson University
For more back-to-school tips from Ryerson University, please go to: http://www.ryerson.ca/news/media/spotlight/bts2010/index.html
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