Learning the Hard Way: Top Mistakes You Can Make as a University Student

 We all make mistakes, and that is okay! Although, these are some of my top mistakes that I recommend every student to avoid at all costs!

#1 Pulling Overnights

Yes, it seems obvious that you shouldn’t do this. Although, as you advance into your university career, pick up extracurriculars,  get a job, it will get insanely overwhelming where you might feel that an overnight is needed. Although, I am going to hold your hand while saying this…they are pointless. You will not only be so tired, your brain will be very fried, and you will not retain any information whatsoever. Creating an agenda and doing a little every day will always be so much more helpful than cramming in one night. In addition, a few hours of sleep will always be more beneficial than no sleep whatsoever. Your brain needs to process what you just studied! It can only do it when you get rest. So, please yourself the sleepless nights and try to avoid these at all costs!

 

#2 Skipping Office Hours

I honestly never thought anything of office hours and never went to them in my first year. Although, I remember I went with a friend to my organic chemistry office hour in second year. The professor was so friendly and helped me a lot. Your professors are here to help you! Please take these hours seriously, as these are the same professors who will be creating your exams and marking your papers! Additionally, it helps with networking and making great connections with your professors (which comes very handy when applying to post graduate programs).

 

#3 Not Joining Extracurriculars

While grades are very important, it’s still great to engage with your peers and make connections! Not only do these extracurriculars look great on your resume, but they are also genuinely so fun! You get to meet many people with similar interests as you, build your CV, explore opportunities, and build your leadership skills! Extracurriculars can include clubs, societies, hobbies, etc. One of my all time favourite extracurriculars offered in UWindsor are Students Offering Support. I recommend you find at least one early on, commit to it, and build yourself within it. Remember, quality>quantity (find a few that you are genuinely interested and committed to rather than many pointless ones).

About the University of Windsor. University of Windsor. (n.d.-a). https://www.uwindsor.ca/68/student-life

 

Remember, prioritize some of your own personal time outside of school as well!

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