From High School to Lecture Halls: A Survival Guide to First Year
Written by: Sarina Kosari, 4th year Biology
Photo by: Western Communications
“University is like highschool, just harder”...I am sure you have heard of that one before or at least thought of it. I know I sure did. Four years ago, I genuinely believed that by colour coding my notes and studying for exams three days before, I’d be just fine.
I was wrong.
University felt like a completely new experience. The pace was faster, the expectations were higher, and the material could definitely not be learned in one sitting the night before. On top of that, no one is reminding you to go to class or updating you on due dates— well except for the syllabus (which will become your best friend!).
It took me a while to adjust. I made mistakes, felt very overwhelmed, and questioned whether I was in the right program. But eventually, I got the hang of things, and if you are feeling the way I did, I can promise you: it does really get better.
However, there are a few things I wish someone had told me before I started, so here is a quick guide to your first year university classes!
1. Get to Know the Syllabus as Early as Possible
The syllabus is like your course contract. It has everything you need to know and expect of the course you are taking for the semester. In the syllabus, you will find information like topics that will be covered, assignment due dates, how your grades are calculated, and even what the professor expects from you.
My suggestion is as soon as you enroll in your classes and have access to the syllabus, download it for each course and read it CAREFULLY. Then transfer the due dates, lesson plans and important information into any form of calendar so there are no surprises within the year.
2. Get familiar with a Schedule Software or Routine
This brings me to my next point, become familiar with a written or digital planner that can help you stay organized and on top of deadlines. In my first year, I planned out important dates using a Google Spreadsheet and color-coded the assignments/exams by course. However, recently I got introduced to Notion, and I highly recommend checking it out. With Notion, I can create weekly schedules, track assignment deadlines, and organize my to-do lists all in one place. It’s been incredibly convenient, especially when balancing extracurriculars with a heavy academic workload.
3. Get Involved in what you Love!
This one isn’t exactly about classes, but it’s just as important especially when it comes to preventing burnout. University is the perfect time to explore your interests beyond academics, and some of the best memories you’ll make during these years will happen outside the classroom. Whether you enjoy taking on leadership roles in clubs, volunteering, or joining a team/club, getting involved helps you feel more connected to campus life.
By joining extracurriculars, not only do you build lifelong friendships, but you also create balance in your life as a student, which is so important. Having something outside of academics gives you the chance to step away from your responsibilities without feeling guilty (because let’s be honest, aimlessly scrolling on Instagram or TikTok for hours doesn’t exactly feel fulfilling). To start, I would begin by searching through the Western Connect website and the Western Link website to see what clubs or volunteering experiences suit your interests. There is always something for everyone so I highly recommend signing up!
4. Remember that You are Never Alone
University can feel isolating at times, especially when you’re adjusting to a new environment, perhaps moving away from home, and also managing a heavier workload.
It’s easy to look around and think everyone else has it all figured out, but the truth is, most students are in the same place as you (even if they don’t show it).
The good news is that Western has a wide range of support and academic services to help you through it. To name just a few there is:
Launch Peer Mentorship Program
In this program, you’ll be paired with upper-year mentors from your faculty who are trained to support first-years as they transition into university life. They offer mentorship, study strategies, encouragement, and help you navigate campus resources, events, and opportunities.
Peer Assisted Learning (PAL)
PAL offers small-group study sessions led by upper-year students who’ve already taken a particular course. It’s a great way to review course material, ask questions, and learn collaboratively. The PAL Centre opens in September!
Writing Support Centre
The Writing Support Centre offers one-on-one help with essays, lab reports, résumés, and more. You can also drop in at Weldon Library, submit drafts for online feedback, or attend free writing workshops to get editing feedback.
Learning Development & Success
If you're looking to build better study habits, improve your time management, or prepare more effectively for exams, this centre offers one-on-one appointments, workshops, and tons of self-guided tools to help you find what works best for you academically.
Accessible Education
This service supports students with both visible and invisible disabilities, offering academic accommodations, learning strategies, and assistive technology to ensure everyone feels comfortable with their learning.
5. Go Easy on Yourself
Everyone has their own way of approaching university, and there is no right or wrong. Some days will be hard and some may be amazing, but it is all about growing in the process.
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