Farhin Ahmed Mim
Starting from the rigorous application process and running to and from IELTS registration (if your university requires your IELTS score) and A’ Level exams, your acceptance comes in the mail and it feels like you are one huge step closer to your dreams. You go through the tiresome process of getting a study permit (if you’re not a lucky citizen or a permanent resident) and fill up all the forms and make sure you haven’t missed anything because otherwise the VFS rejects your permit and you have to reapply which takes such a long time.
*PARTICIPATE: You might or not might be homesick but you have to get over it (I couldn’t and was rolling on the floor crying) and go out and participate in all the activities and connect with the people who will be your future friends/enemies (or frenemies). Attending all the orientation activities and meeting new people is underrated and super important because this gives you a head start in making friends (and people you will be nagging for notes).
*KNOW HOW TO GET YOUR BOOKS: Even for books, there are cheap groups with lots of students in the area who will sell you second hand or even new books for cheaper new books in good condition. If you want to spend efficiently like me, always look for university second-hand bookstores or Facebook before purchasing a new one for double price. Make sure you know what books you need to buy from your course professor so that you do not make unnecessary purchase.
*STAY UPDATED ON ACADEMIC CONTENT:
When you are all set with the basic necessities of a newbie, you get to the most important part, the academic side. Most universities have an online site(s) where professors post the course syllabus, lecture slides and a lot of other relevant materials which you need to be on top of to shape up a good CGPA. Make sure you have read and understood your syllabus well even before classes start and always try to keep a good rapport with your professors and always ask questions. Do your readings in advance and try your best to study according to the plans your professors and study group-mates make.
*DO NOT PROCRASTINATE: Do not get Netflix and never say “I’ll do this tomorrow” because that is the first step to your doom (just a nice reminder-threat).
Do not forget your goals and have fun!