It’s that time of year when enthusiastic newcomers are eagerly seeking enrolment in university. Some are filled with anticipation, believing they are on the cusp of achieving their dreams. Others are experiencing a mixture of excitement and fear. I should know, I’ve been there! I find myself standing at the crossroads of completion and obliteration—whether I'm about to finish school or if it's about to finish me remains an enigma. If you're already immersed in university life, or if you've long bid adieu to these hallowed halls, consider passing this on to the youngster next door, and let them learn from the elders. ALSO READ: Academic year set to commence on September 25 But before we delve into these tips for the newbies on the peculiar terrain that is university life, let's first wish a warm welcome to aspiring scholars. Put on your thinking caps and let's dive into some of the tips for a successful and entertaining university experience. Please sleep Ah, there will be alluring temptations of late-night Netflix binges and impromptu dance-offs with your newly made friends. But the truth is, sleep is the key to sanity and the occasional A+ on that dreaded 8 a.m. test. If you thought university was going to finally be that place where you explore the party monster in you, you may want to slow down a bit. Otherwise, you're going to say 'goodbye' to your white eyes and 'hello' to caffeine and more under-eye concealer! Work out!! It's probably the first time you are going to be sleeping and waking up at the time you want, eating whatever junk you fancy while spending a lot more hours seated in front of your laptop trying to meet deadlines. Well, if no one ever told you, this is the exact place and time where most of our big brothers and sisters first got their ‘love handles’. They hadn't grown bigger, they were unfit. Hit that gym, okay? ALSO READ: Rwandan university wins East African debate competition The art of procrastination You are soon going to discover that you are either a morning or a night person! And I will be the first to tell you; that's your ticket to procrastination. I mean, why complete your assignments right away when you still have tomorrow? It's true that delaying tasks to the eleventh hour becomes a source of adrenaline that fuels our innermost passions. However, you may laugh a little less in the face of impending deadlines—just adhere to your adequate sleeping schedule and work on your assignments in their due time. Dress to impress While some may argue that school is rather a casual place for sweatpants and disheveled hair, a touch of flair never hurts anyone. Please rock your best outfit, you never know who may be impressed. And no, I am not talking about potential lovers only, but also potential employers! Of course, fashion choices should reflect personality, therefore, do you! ALSO READ: Rwandan university ranks among top in sub-Saharan Africa Food chronicles Needless to say, pizza and burgers are quick to order! And yes, the limited finances are a factor too! But your blood still needs a bit of iron to reduce tiredness and fatigue, support good energy levels, and contribute to the normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin function, which carries oxygen around your body and improves both your mental and physical performance. Sounds like a lot of biology? Well, you won't have to hear it from your doctor if you quit surviving on questionable cafeteria cuisine. Social network Universities have long been known to be a trove of unruly adventures and freakishly talented, oddball companions. Go ahead, socialise, mark your calendar for the endless array of themed parties, festivals, and gatherings that pepper the university year, and create your own tribe if you want! Engage in awkward icebreakers, join random clubs, and bond over group work disagreements on overdue assignments. Keep in mind that university friendships can be both unpredictable and beautiful, but most of all, a sure source for long-lasting networks that may come in handy later in your career. Now, from pop quizzes to birthday parties, each moment is an opportunity to revel in laughter, growth, and camaraderie. Enjoy the ride of a lifetime.
