Top 5 things Most First Year’s Probably Already Know… But Here’s a Reminder

Meet people.

Why? Because it only gets harder. It’s tough going through first year of post secondary in a new environment without buddies you can lean on throughout the journey. It’s your first year. It’s also hundreds of other students’ first years. SO MEET THEM. It may be scary, intimidating or out of some of your comfort zones… But honestly – go out and meet as many people as you can. And if you feel totally awks in a box, IT’S OKAY… just get involved in the school clubs, events, committees, etc. that you have an interest in and BAM – now, you have something in common to talk about. No awkward turtles… or palm trees.

If you have class - go to class.

Why? Because you don’t want to be the one that flunked out first year. Think of this as an “Undercover Self Discipline Exam” that no one tells you about, and it’s not during exam time – it’s all year round. Also, it’s not a “pass/fail” kind of thing… it’s a “you will be kicked out” kind of thing. SO GO. Besides, I hear it’s a great place to learn things AND meet people, yay – double whammy.

Work smart, play smart.

Why? Because if this is not balanced, there can be some major consequences. Now, I’m not saying this will be difficult – however, this is one of those things that may take some time to figure out. Once you do, accept it. Just go with what works for you. You’ll notice that school becomes a lot less stressful and having fun becomes a lot more… fun! A tip to guide you in the right direction: plan it out. If you know you’re going out for the weekend, make sure you complete your assignments and readings… you’ll be doing yourself a favour anyway, because when you go out you won’t have this huge weight on your shoulders preventing you from truly having fun. And no, it doesn’t matter how much you lift, bro – that weight will still be there.

You probably don’t need to consume that much – of anything.

Why? Because the “Freshman 15” is not a myth. Just because you’re in post secondary, doesn’t mean your stomach can have 3 times the meals you used to have in high school. You probably should have taken advantage of that during the beginning/middle stages of puberty. Also, just because you’re in post secondary, doesn’t mean you’re immune to unlimited alcohol consumption – know your own limits. You don’t want to be “THAT guy/girl”. Too much of anything will make you and your body feel incredibly uncomfortable, I’m just sayin’ – but it’s your call.

Be yourself.

Why? Because in case you hadn’t heard … an original is always worth more than a copy. At the end of everyday you’re not living for anyone else but you – so do what makes you happy and excited about life. Do you.

Judy Man started with Vector in June of 2012. She is personally responsible for over $16,000 in Cutco sales and this past summer she was promoted to Assistant Manager of our York Region Pilot office. She is now returning back to the University of Western Ontario where she is majoring in Sociology with a double minor in Dance and Art.