Welcome to First Year! Here are 4 things you should do
If I could use one word to describe my thoughts about finally being back on campus, it would be exciting. The thought of finally being able to walk to class with friends, join in person events, and actually enjoy my dream campus experience is unmatched and I’m so glad that I can finally do so.
The University of Waterloo has opened up campus fully and if this is your first year or your first time on campus, keep reading to find out the best ways to maximize your experience.
1. Join a club
Not only is this a great way to make friends, but clubs also provide you with the opportunity to network professionally, build skills, and enhance your resume. The university offers a wide variety of clubs and societies, all of which provide diverse experiences and opportunities.
2. Participate in school events
I’m being 100% honest when I say that there is always something to do on campus. This could be sports games, fun activities, or academic seminars. If you’re more interested in being physically active, our physical activities complex (PAC) offers intramurals and fitness classes including, but not limited to, yoga, zumba, squash, swimming and kickboxing. Getting involved in school is a great way to learn more about your school and make amazing memories.
3. Remember to study!
It's easy to get carried away by social events, school activities and the party life that campus might have to offer, but it’s important that you remember the main reason for you being here. Believe me, there will be plenty of events to attend and missing out on one will not ruin your experience. However, there are only a set amount of assignments in one course and missing one because of a party may not be the best idea.
4. Prioritize your mental health
While it is normal to feel anxious about change or sad about being away from family, don't let those emotions constantly cloud your thoughts. If you find that your thoughts are often negative and that the transition is quite hard for you to handle, I strongly urge you to utilize the school’s counselling services. You can book individual sessions, group sessions, or even join mental health training programs, all of which are catered towards helping you achieve a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Furthermore, staying physically healthy is also a great way to work on your mental health. The school gym, located in PAC, is free for all students and is a great way to de-stress and stay active.
The change to university always leaves room for a mix of feelings, including anxiety or even excitement. These feelings are completely valid, and if you’re nervous about being here, I can guarantee that there are hundreds of other students who also feel the same way. I know I did and as someone who has already been through this, I can confidently say that you will be okay.
