Whether you’re a seasoned student or returning to academia after a few years off, starting a new term can be equally exciting and daunting.

Here are a few tips to help you start the term off on the right foot.

1. Plan ahead
Being extra prepared at the beginning of a new term can help you start strong in your academic journey. Create a solid plan with both short- and long-term goals. And try to keep your goals realistic, so you can feel good once you achieve them.  Keep a calendar of your class schedule, due dates and important events (and make sure to update it regularly) – colour code things according the class and highlight the most important stuff.

There are also lots of online tools and apps out there to help you get, and stay, organized.

2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Staff, faculty and even your fellow students are here to help! UCW’s small class sizes mean that students can benefit from more one-on-one undivided attention from professors. Speak up and ask questions if you find yourself struggling with the course material or are just looking for some advice on how to prepare for the term.

The University’s Peer2Peer program aims to assist new students with the transition into university life. Peer Leaders, who are existing UCW students, are there to help new students build a sense of community and establish a committed network. Peer Leaders help Student Affairs staff in supporting new students as they begin their studies at UCW and can help answer questions or provide resources. All new UCW students are paired with a Peer Leader for their first term.

3. Stay on top of your work
Your workload might seem a bit lighter during the first couple of weeks of a new term, and it can be tempting to push some of the smaller tasks aside. Now is not the time to procrastinate! Use this time to stay on top of your assignments and get ahead on whatever tasks are approaching in the near future. Your future self will thank you.

4. Have fun!
As with most things in life, having a little balance can go a long way to not only being successful in your academic endeavours but also feeling happy and fulfilled. No matter how busy your schedule gets, make sure to try and schedule a little time for some fun. UCW’s Student Affairs office and Peer Leaders organize weekly events throughout each term including online exercise classes, workshops and virtual seminars on things like mediation and mindfulness. Bi-weekly First Year Friday events are organized by Peer Leaders specifically for new students and include virtual games, or a chance to have a coffee and chat with other new students.

Check out the full events calendar under the Student Affairs tab in the MyUCW Student Portal.

Published on Oct. 20, 2020.