An Incoming Sophomore's Guide to Freshman Year in University

BY AUDREY WONG

As the school year is fast approaching, reflecting on my freshman year of working towards my Bachelor of Business Administration is a key component when mapping out how I want my sophomore year to look. I have spent the past year finding what works and what doesn’t in an entirely new school, curriculum, and environment. Below is a list of my top five sophomore secrets to help you navigate your first year with success.

1. Build your habits early.

A common mistake that freshmen make is in their start. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the work and cram to study or finish a project the night before it's due. To avoid such procrastination, find an organization system. Begin your semester by organizing all the key due dates, exams, and weights of assignments. Get a planner to divide your study time, class time, and breaks. Find study methods that work best for you and continue them. With this foundation, you can not only focus on what you have to do each day but plan ahead for your busiest times. 

Student dashboard. Notion

My favorite tool for organization is Notion. I plan out upcoming assignments and exam dates, using different colors to differentiate my classes.

2. Make connections.

It can be easy to feel alone in a huge school. That’s why it’s important to make connections with your classmates and faculty. Whether it’s a study buddy, someone to attend events with, or even a connection to future employment, everyone you meet offers something new. You can find someone to help you academically or someone to talk to when in need of company. Whatever it may be, connections are critical for growth and learning.

3. Try new things.

When going to university, it’s important to understand the opportunities the school offers. As much as academics are important to success, being well-rounded in extracurriculars is equally as important. Business clubs are a great way to get involved with the school and gain experience through a variety of roles and friendship opportunities.

Personally, my experiences in coordinating and delegating roles in school clubs and case competitions have been rewarding experiences beyond the classroom. 

4. Use your resources.

Even with planning, studying, and putting in the time, it can be difficult to keep up. University workload often comes as a shock to many high school students, so it’s important to use the resources your school offers. If you’re struggling in a class, attend office hours or set up a meeting with a teaching assistant or professor. If you’re struggling with course selection, see an academic advisor. Many universities also have study sessions. Connect with people who can help you work towards your success because they are there to guide you.

Why universities should support more student entrepreneurs. World Economic Forum

For me, meeting one-on-one with a teaching assistant was beneficial in a class with 200 other students.

5. Embrace new challenges.

Whether you look forward to it or not, change happens and many challenges arise with it. University is full of new challenges, especially learning about what you want to do and who you are as a person. Business clubs especially can get competitive with many students competing for spots. It’s important to not get discouraged by the challenges you will face but instead embrace them. Every experience will teach you something, and you have to keep moving forward. Accepting challenges as a learning opportunity helps you to change your mindset that things aren’t happening to you, but for you.

I faced many highs and lows in my first year, but without the bad, I wouldn’t be able to appreciate the good.