16 Tips For Starting Post-Secondary School
I cannot think of a time when the back-to-school season didn’t excite me. From watching my kids go back to school every year, to being an avid lifelong learner myself, to teaching at the post-secondary level, this time of year always feels like a new beginning and fresh start, while also being quite overwhelming.
Specifically, when we’re looking at folks starting their post-secondary journey, whether they’re fresh out of high school or are a mature student returning, things can feel incredibly draining and confusing. It’s a new environment to navigate, typically away from their comfort zones, that can feel confusing and uncomfortable to start.
I strongly believe in the importance of post-secondary education, so as a lifelong student, a mother of two girls who have both been through it, and as a teacher, I wanted to share some tips for easing this transition.
16 Tips For Starting Post-Secondary School
1. GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO ADJUST
Post-secondary school is new for absolutely everyone who attends, which means it can quickly become overwhelming and confusing to navigate. Give yourself time to adjust, and remember that it’s going to take time to learn about the new environment and culture.
2. NAVIGATE YOUR ENVIRONMENT
Take the time to tour your campus, whether it’s in person or virtually, to help with your transition. This will help you locate where your classes are to help ease some anxiety on the first day and pinpoint where key services are that you may need (such as academic advising, counselling, the library, study rooms, administration, the gym and more).
3. DRAW ON YOUR SUPPORTS
To build on the last point, the services on campus are there for you to use, and can be fantastic supports. One thing I like to remind people is that you’re paying for these services regardless of whether you use them or not, so use them whenever you need them. Things such as counselling, academic advising, tutoring, and more are there to help you have the most successful post-secondary experience possible.
4. ATTEND ORIENTATION
Orientation is a fantastic place to learn about the campus, pick up some study tips, and meet new people. I highly recommend checking out the different activities and options.
5. JOIN A STUDY GROUP
Some classes can move quickly, so not only are study groups a great way to share knowledge and ideas from classes, but it’s also a great space to meet new people.
6. ASK FOR SUPPORT
Ask for support when you need it, and approach your teacher or TA if you need accommodations, clarifications, or extensions. The best way to do this is to get familiar with their office hours and don’t leave your concerns until the last minute.
7. FOLLOW COURSE OUTLINES
Course outlines give you an overview of the entire semester, including any important dates and deadlines. I highly recommend spending time going through this at the start of the term and adding any upcoming dates into a calendar or planner.
8. WATCH FOR DROP DEAD DATES
Deadline expectations are typically further explained in each course outline, so I highly recommend taking time to understand what each course expects. Sometimes you can submit your work a little late with a small penalty, whereas other times there are firm drop dead dates where assignments are not accepted past the deadline. Make sure you’re aware if your deadline is a firm date or if there is flexibility.
9. SHARE YOUR AVAILABILITY
Depending on your workload, there could be some busier times throughout the term than others - it’s important to be upfront with your friends and family about your availability early on. This can reduce the pressure to keep up commitments.
10. SET DESIGNATED STUDY TIMES
The semester can quickly get busy, sometimes without even realizing it. From the beginning, try to get into a study routine with a designated study time. Whether you study better in the morning or evening, pay attention to what works for you, and try to stay consistent.
11. CELEBRATE YOUR SUCCESSES
Don’t overlook your successes, regardless of how big or small they may feel. Celebrate them as they appear - you deserve it!
12. BUDGET YOUR TIME
Put yourself on a schedule and stick to it. This means not spending all your time on one course, and instead, learning to balance your study time and coursework.
13. GET INVOLVED
There is so much to gain from the post-secondary experience that happens outside of the classroom, so make sure you get involved. This will expose you to countless opportunities, mentors, and key players in your future success.
14. MAKE TIME FOR FUN
Post-secondary can be a very stressful, yet fun time in your life. Make time to go out with your friends - just please make sure you stay safe.
15. DON’T LEAVE THINGS UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE
Deadlines seem far away at the start of the term, but they will approach quickly. Don’t leave things until the last minute, and instead, prioritize things early.
16. THERE IS NO TIMELINE FOR SUCCESS
Whether it takes you 4 years, 5 years, or 6 years to get your degree, keep going. There is absolutely no timeline for success - focus on what works for you, and trust that the end will be worth it.