studenthubpageheaderwordmark

studentHubPageHeaderWordMark

ansia-pic-for-website

Ansia-Pic-For-Website

<p>The most valuable lesson I learned in my first year: no matter the change, always remember to embrace every moment and make the most of it.</p>


<em>by Ansia</em>
<h3>Embracing Change at School</h3>
Going into my last two years of high school, all I ever heard was, “put the effort in now and take it easy when you get to university,” or “university will be the best years of your life.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

While these statements do hold some truth, I made the mistake of following them blindly.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

When I got to university I was unwilling to learn and only did the bare minimum. That is, until the end of the first semester came around and I was hit with reality. I didn’t have good grades, I wasn’t making friends, and I wasn’t involved with any campus events because, well, I was following other’s advice and coasting.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

I had spent my entire semester trying to “rest” without making any effort to get involved. I didn’t really try to build relationships with classmates, learn class material or ask questions when needed.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

Because of this, I felt like I was being left behind, while everyone around me was thriving and creating life-long connections. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

Determined to turn this all around, I set out on a mission: to get the most I could out of my university experience in my second semester.

I shortlisted campus clubs I had a genuine interest in and joined them. I participated in study groups to meet people and I asked questions when I was confused.<span class="Apple-converted-space">  </span>By doing this, I was able to better myself and make the most out of what was left of my first year.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

However, that’s because I was opened to change. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

If you ask me, that’s the most valuable lesson I learned back then: no matter the change, always remember to embrace every moment and make the most of it.
<h3>Being Open to Learning in the Workplace</h3>
Having recently graduated, I’m now beginning to dip my toes in the employment pool, and I’m not going to lie to you, it’s definitely a little frightening.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

At times I’ve been unsure of what to expect, how I’d be treated by others, whether they’ll see me as a burden and if I’ll actually be able to make a difference.

With all these questions running through my mind, I found it important to just remember that I wouldn’t have been hired if I weren’t bringing something unique and interesting to the table. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

By pushing my self-doubt aside and making sure I’m fully involved, I’ve not only been getting the most out of my experience, but I’ve been able to create something both I and the organization can be proud of.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

Just remember, part of being involved includes an openness to learning. Most tasks you’ll face in the real world may not require your current skillset, but that’s okay. Just be open to the learning process.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

When someone asks if you’d like to jump on a task in which you have a genuine interest, but don’t have the skills, don’t reject it immediately – say yes!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

Preface it by saying you may need some training, or instruction, and more often than not, what you’ll find is people are willing to teach you what you need to excel – and you can even bring your actual skillset in afterwards to make the task your own!

Through being open to learning, you not only build your own knowledge and skillset but will undoubtedly help those around you. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>

<span style="color: #999999;"><i>Ansia is a second-year student at the University of Toronto studying commerce.</i></span>

Embracing change when making any leap

Exam season is coming!

For many students, it involves sleepless nights and an endless list of review topics. Some anxiety is normal, but there’s no need to go overboard with your worries. Try these tips to help you better prepare while also dialing down the stress factor:

<img class="size-full wp-image-8360" src="https://k1f.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/Student-Studying.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />
<h3>Start now!</h3>
Even if exams aren't for another month or two, you can start preparing now by making an effort to master each new concept and/or chapter your professor has gone through this term. This way, you'll have less to re-learn when it's crunch time—and studying will be much less stressful for you.

<img class="size-full wp-image-8362" src="https://k1f.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/iStock-Make-a-plan.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="204" />
<h3>Make a plan</h3>
Just winging it during your study sessions can leave big gaps in your knowledge. Take a look at what will be covered on your exams, and come up with a review schedule that will help you re-acquaint yourself with the material. Use an agenda to help you keep track of what you need to go over.

<img class="size-full wp-image-8365" src="https://k1f.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/iStock-Student-Spacing-Calendar.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />
<h3>Space it out</h3>
Cramming dials up the pressure and isn't an effective way of retaining info anyway—a lose-lose situation. Spreading out your study efforts over a few weeks gives you a better chance of committing all those facts to memory, through repeated reinforcement.

<img class="size-full wp-image-8367" src="https://k1f.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/iStock-Student-Pay-Attention.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />
<h3>Pay attention</h3>
Teachers often drop hints about what will be on major tests. Pay close attention to topics they go over several times and key concepts that form the foundation of the subject you’re learning. If they’re hosting review sessions, make sure to attend and review any handouts closely.

<img class="size-full wp-image-8369" src="https://k1f.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/iStock-Read-Textbook.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />
<h3>Read a Book</h3>
Often times, exams and tests pull directly from statements found in your textbooks – sometimes even verbatim. By carefully reading each chapter, you’ll easily be able to recall specific passages and potential answers to test questions.

<img class="size-full wp-image-8371" src="https://k1f.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/iStock-Take-Good-Care.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />
<h3>Take good care</h3>
Planning on pulling all-nighters, existing on snacks and spending hours holed up in your room? Even though exams can be tough, you still need to take care of yourself. That means getting proper sleep, good nutrition and finding ways to unwind with your friends and family.

Exams are a part of every student’s learning journey. Study hard, do your best, and be proud of what you’ve achieved this school term. Good luck!

5 tips to help you prepare for final exams

Subscribe to the Student Hub newsletter to get helpful tips about student life delivered monthly.

Embracing change when making any leap

‎Quick links

‎Stay ahead of the curve

‎$200,000 up for grabs!

‎Prep yourself

‎Tips on Choosing a Post-Secondary School

‎Textbook tips for post secondary education

‎The ultimate Back-to-School guide for highschool, university and college students

‎Succeed at school

‎Increase your confidence in the classroom

‎Embracing change when making any leap

‎Dealing with anxiety

‎Know your money

‎‎7 financial books to read as a student

‎Tips and tricks to save in post-secondary

‎Interest rates on student debt

‎Win at life

‎Three ways to boost your mental health

‎Preparing for a summer job

‎These trades jobs are gaining in popularity