Are you thinking about going to college or university in Zambia? Check out the top 5 tips from Go Zambia Jobs to help you get the most out of your time at university.
Top 5 tips for those starting university
#1 – Identify your goals and ambitions
Why are you going to university?
Is it because you want to be an accountant, a lawyer, an engineer. Maybe you just want to make new friends, experience a different way of life or to try lots of different clubs and activities.
Whatever your motivations it is a good idea to think about them before you start. This will help you to plan what you want to get out of your time at university.
#2 – Find out how university works
University is a completely different environment to school. At university you are given more freedom to manage your own time and to develop your own learning strategies.
Before you go to university try to familiarise yourself with the campus, the library, the computer rooms, the various clubs and societies etc. Attend open days, check the university website and prospectus and speak to friends and family about their experiences.
Even though university may feel like a big scary environment just remember that everyone is there to learn or to help you learn. Do not be afraid to chat to your tutors and lecturers – they are just people! In fact, they will have started out at a university just like you. As long as you are polite and professional tutors and lecturers will not mind being approached for help and guidance.
#3 – Meet new people
University is a great place to mix with people of different interests, ages and cultures. You will meet students from different parts of Zambia, different socio-economic backgrounds and different academic levels.
Making new friends is a skill and university is a great place to practice and develop your people skills. Societies, clubs and sport teams are a great way to build friendships and develop your teamwork skills. You will also want to try and make new friends in each class you attend so that you have someone to discuss your course with (and to help you catch up if you miss a lecture or tutorial!).
Try to meet new people – the insight you gain into different cultures whilst at university will be helpful to you throughout your entire life.
#4 – Learn how to study independently
At university you are in charge of your own learning and it will be up to you to manage your own educational journey. Tutors will help guide your learning but they are not responsible for your success – you are.
You are responsible for everything from enrolling, to attending lecturers, handing in assignments and taking assessments. You will therefore need to learn how to act and study independently.
It can take some time to get used to, but once you learn this skill it will see you through the rest of your life.
#5 – Think about the future
University is a great time to try different things, meet different people and of course to learn lots of new things. It is also a great time to learn about you. What are your motivations and aspirations? Where do you see yourself working in the future? Where do see yourself living in the future will you be working in Lusaka or London? Solwezi or Shanghai? Can you manage without your family? Are you able to budget your finances and look after your own well-being? University is a great time to address these questions.
Further Information
To find more of the latest education news in Zambia visit: Education
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