By: Dingaan Moropane

South Africa's limited university allocations and concerning dropout rates highlight the challenges students face as they transition from high school to higher education. For many matriculants who completed their exams on November 28, starting university or college is both an exciting and daunting milestone. With proper preparation, students can successfully navigate their first year and lay a strong foundation for academic and personal growth.

Understand the Academic Expectations

Higher education differs significantly from high school, with an emphasis on independent learning and critical thinking. To adapt effectively:

• Attend Orientation: Familiarise yourself with course structures, grading systems, and available study resources.
• Review Course Syllabi: Understand the topics, assessments, and deadlines to manage your time effectively.
• Develop Consistent Study Habits: Set regular study times, use planners or digital calendars, and break assignments into smaller tasks to avoid procrastination.

Cultivate Time Management Skills

Time management is crucial in higher education, where balancing academics, extracurriculars, and personal life is a new challenge.

• Plan Weekly Commitments: Map out classes, study sessions, part-time work, and activities to visualise your schedule.
• Prioritise Tasks: Focus on high-priority tasks first and avoid overcommitting to avoid burnout.
• Start Small: Begin with a few key extracurricular activities and gradually add more as you adjust.

Embrace Independence and Responsibility

For many students, university represents their first real taste of independence, which comes with increased responsibility.

• Budget Wisely: Plan for essentials like textbooks and supplies, track expenses, and avoid unnecessary spending.
• Prioritise Health: Maintain physical and mental well-being. Seek support from counselling and health services if feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

Mental Health Awareness: Research by Professor Jason Bantjes and associates highlights the prevalence of mental health challenges among South African students:

• 24.8% experience severe symptoms of mental health disorders.
• Treatment rates remain low, with only 35.2% receiving help despite perceiving a need.

Build a Support Network

Having a solid support system can make a significant difference:

• Connect with Friends and Mentors: Build relationships with peers and faculty for academic and emotional support.
• Utilise Campus Resources: Take advantage of clubs, organisations, and student services.
• Stay Open to New Experiences: Embrace opportunities to meet new people and try new activities.

The Journey Ahead

Starting university or college is a transformative experience filled with opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By understanding academic expectations, managing time, embracing independence, and building a support network, students can navigate challenges effectively and thrive during their first year.

Stay resilient, open to new experiences, and enjoy the journey ahead—it’s just the beginning of an exciting educational adventure.

Press Release Submitted By

Author: Dingaan Moropane

Total Words: 476

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