First Year Truths

Leaving school to start your tertiary education is a massive step out of your comfort zone. You will find yourself in territory unknown, with weird and cool people and, let’s be honest, probably feeling a little overwhelmed. Or you may be feeling like you are owning this new experience and going to knock it out the park!

Which ever one of these people you are, The Dux team want you to know we are here for you.  The good, the bad and the ugly.

Some of our students have shared their wisdom and tips for first year:

1. You Will Make Friends 

Don’t freak out if this doesn’t happen overnight. Good quality friendships take time so it may not happen overnight. But trust us – it will happen.

2. Be Yourself 

Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not just to fit in – especially when you are feeling lonely and sidelined. You will regret it.

3. Own Your Emotions 

It is normal to feel alone. It’s also a season… use the time to clarify who you are and what you expect from your friends. Soon you will look back at this sad period and appreciate your relationships all the more.

It’s natural if you are homesick – after all, it’s been your everyday reality for 18 years.

Adulting can feel overwhelming – all the extra responsibility weighs a ton. Hang in there – it does get easier with time.

If you are less certain of your life’s plan than you were a year ago – that’s also OK. You don’t have to have it all figured out right now. Use the next three to four years getting to know yourself better – and your purpose will get clearer and clearer every semester.

4. Get Out of Bed 

This is a biggie! The workload is enormous. You will be exhausted. You will feel drained. But lying in bed will only make you feel worse. Depression and loneliness fester in bed. Sleep begets more sleep.

When you are feeling down – force yourself to get up and get out. Go for a walk. Smile at a stranger. Engage with students in communal areas. Keep moving forward and don’t give up.

5. Don’t Join Every Club… 

The vast variety will be tempting, but before you know it, you will be overcommitted and overwhelmed.

6. …But Do Get Involved 

All work and no play is no good either. Before you dedicate your entire life to studying - class all day and all-nighters before exams - choose one or two activities you are passionate about and make your contribution to those count.

The Dux Student Support Advantage

Your goals, in reach together. Look no further than Dux. We specialise in giving all the mental health and emotional health support you need to thrive academically and in life. Contact us today, and get your ducks in a row: 060.656.1305  |info@duxpd.co.za

Dux | dʌks |  noun  "The top pupil in a class.”