Returning to university is an especially daunting yet exciting moment and finding that sweet spot to balance making the most of the university experience, academics, extracurriculars, social, personal and other life priorities is something to still figure out in this transition.
In this blogpost we are going to share with you our top 5 tips on adapting to that transition back to university life in the on-campus setting based on our experiences. We hope that this blogpost will help you realise your potential for making that Good Start, whether you are a new student or have been studying here for a good while!
1. Prepare for the nostalgic overload ��
Returning to campus might feel like experiencing university for the first time and as a new student. At the same time it all seems familiar when we remember those pre-pandemic days. Setting a good routine, getting acquainted with the environment and the hustle and bustle of students going to and fro is definitely something to get used to for the first few weeks. Remembering how to socialise with new people and knowing when to take study breaks are also some key things to learn again.
Tips:
Try something new by joining or continuing to attend club and/or society events, we highly encourage you to! Make new friends and meet people who have the same interests as you while developing your social skills and having fun.
Take study breaks the way you’d like to relax, even if it is just to get some fresh air ��, treating yourself to a hot beverage ☕️ or hitting the gym ��️♂️.
2. Learn from your experiences in Semester 1 ��
Now is the time to learn from our experiences in Semester 1 and translate them into how we are going to make the most out of this opportunity to do your best or even going the extra mile. This is the time for a fresh start and to grow from where you left off since the last exam or submission deadline.Let’s reflect back and set a few academic goals you want to achieve this semester, work towards them and integrate this mindset to everything you do. This could look like better time management such as creating to-do lists and finishing assignments well but this is to name but a few! Academic Success Coaches can help with this! They do one-to-one sessions with students to help them get the most from their studies without being specific to any subject. For more info email academicsuccesscoach@mtu.ie or visit The Academic Success Coaching Website ��
3. Know your course essentials ��
Staying prepared for your lectures and practicals is key to your academic performance. This includes knowing your course essentials. Bringing a pen and paper for lectures can be just the bare minimum for some courses so it is vital that you understand what you need to have and this may involve the following:
- Attending your timetables classes
- Asking your lecturer or peers
- Keeping up-to-date with emails or Canvas messaging from your lecturers
- Researching recommended course essentials on the Good Start Website ��
4. Stay up-to-date with the latest information and student support services available to you ��
Information is coming from every direction. Regularly keep an eye on your emails and Canvas messages for key updates from MTU support services and your lecturers. If your query has not been answered, please ask for help or head over to the MTU Student Website �� and research the support you require.
As you've heard and seen in the news, there has been some easing of Covid-19 restrictions. However, students must follow Covid-19 guidelines when entering the campus, and face masks must be worn at all times as it is still mandatory when entering any facilities in the MTU to prevent Covid-19 from spreading any further during lectures and in practical rooms. However, if you need to stock up on masks, please go to the Quik Pick or An Siopa to purchase a face mask.
5. Enjoy the experience & be kind with yourself and others ��
Lastly, it is important to be kind with yourself and others. You’re here to learn and get your degree but you’re also here to possibly have the best years of your life from the friendships, connections and experiences you are going to make here. The MTU campuses are so diverse and offer opportunities for you to leverage this, all you need to do is try them out!!
By Justine Bongcaras, 4th Year Biomedical Engineering (Honours) Student and Ben Chen, 4th Year Business (Honours) Student – Good Start Ambassadors 2021/22