Coping with the changes involved in making the transition to university

University will offer you new and wonderful experiences and treats you as a responsible adult able to make important decisions for yourself. Naturally, this is bound to cause some sense of apprehension, especially if you have not had to take on a great deal of responsibility before. Although this will be a challenge, increased independence will not only benefit you academically but also socially, helping you to become a more well-rounded individual.

To help you experience success you should:

• avoid being intimidated by the sheer size of the physical environment by getting to know your way around as quickly as possible;
• try to get to know other students as quickly as possible - a friendly, familiar face can dispel much of the tension generated by new surroundings and practices;
• maintain a high level of motivation by regular reflection on why you are at university and what you hope to achieve by being here;
• enjoy all aspects of university life but at all times remain focussed, be mentally and physically prepared for hard work;
• commence reading course material and texts as soon as possible;
• keep up to date with background reading as preparation for lectures and tutorials;
• attend all lectures and tutorials - once a session is missed the 'slippery slope' mentality takes over and it becomes increasing easy to miss more classes and thus fall further behind;
• complete and submit all assessable work by the due date, essentially because if you do not do this the amount of work which needs to be completed will simply accumulate until it appears too burdensome to even attempt;
• do not be discouraged by the possibility of initial results which may be disappointing - make the effort to see your tutors to discuss how the quality of your work can be improved;
• seek assistance as soon as possible if a subject, course or personal matters are causing concern - various advisers and counsellors within the university can offer constructive advice and/or assistance (do not allow what may initially be a relatively minor issue to become a major one); and
• investigate the facilities and resources available on campus, and make use of them if you feel the need.

Work toward becoming an independent learner. Essentially, this means that you must exercise:

• a mature, responsible attitude;
• effective organisation and efficient time management skills; and
• a self-disciplined approach to your studies.

Above all else learn to enjoy yourself and to enjoy learning.