Students View – 10 potential challenges and how to deal with them
February 2025
1. Homesickness
One of the first challenges you may face in university is missing home. Even though you’re meeting lots of new people and trying new things, it’s easy to miss your friends and family (heck, even your own bed) back home. This is totally normal and lots of people go through this.
Luckily, we live in a digital age so video calling can help bridge that gap and keep you connected with your folks back home. Personally, I found putting my own personal touch on my residence room helped me to feel more comfortable and at home.
A big part of transitioning to university life is learning how to study effectively. This ranges from learning your study style (i.e., cue cards, note taking, etc.) to finding your favourite place to study. Personally, I like to study by rewriting my notes out in an organized fashion.
On the other hand, my best friend likes to make cue cards and study where it’s quiet. It’s all about what works best for you. You also need to learn how to effectively manage your time. It’s helpful to set up a schedule for when you need to study so you don’t end up cramming.
2. Weather Conditions
If you are in the northern hemisphere of US, UK, Europe and Canada (except west coast) the first thing that hits you is the severe cold of winter starting in October onwards in your first semester. The best way to handle it is to buy the best outerwear that money can buy – Canada Goose Overcoat, winter lined gloves, heavy wool scarf, high (12-18 inch) wool lined water proof boots with traction soles, wool head cap, ear-muffs and likely good sun glasses.
The days start to get darker earlier and icy/windy conditions require good traction under the boots with thick corduroy or woollen trousers. For safety have two set of gloves, scarf, cap, ear-muffs etc. in case one gets misplaced.
3. Time management
If I can pass on only one piece of advice, it’s to tell you the most important life skill you’ll ever learn is time management. This is a skill you’ll need for almost anything you do.
From school to part-time work, being good at managing your time is really important. I found making a very detailed Apple Calendar or Google Calendar, or even a physical planner is super helpful at keeping me on track.
I put everything from my classes, study time, gym sessions, coffee breaks, and everything in between in my calendar. It helps me make my to-do lists for the day and keeps me on top of my assignments and courses.
4. Budgeting
Being raised by a financial advisor means that I’ve had budgeting ingrained in my brain from a young age. And let me tell you, it has been a very helpful skill.
You don’t need to budget everything you’re ever going to spend money on, but it’s helpful to have amounts allocated to meals, groceries, snack items, books, clothing and social spending. This helps you track your money and not go on an online shopping binge.
This is also super helpful if you start making money on part time work on campus because you know how to effectively save money for the future! Learn how you can effectively budget your first year of university.
5. Transitioning to university life
Another common obstacle is learning to adapt to the differences between university and high school. You may have difficult classes, more homework, and you’re now responsible for managing your own time.
I’ve found it helpful to make friends with people in class, form study groups, and learn how to take effective notes. University Student Office offers great resources to help with the transition into university life and run workshops like note taking and leadership development.
Another tip is to introduce yourself to your professors and get to know them better. They’re great resources if you’re struggling with class work.
5. Roommates
Although residence teams work hard to pair you with people you’ll get along with, we all know people aren’t perfect and there may come a time when you face some conflict with your roommates.
A great way to deal with potential problems before they arise is to make a roommate agreement. This helps outline commitments like cleaning, house rules, and other obligations.
If for some reason conflict arises, don’t be afraid to contact your residence life assistant/don. They’re there to support you and can help you solve your problems with roommates.
6. Relationships
From new friendships to romantic relationships, university is a time to meet new people and have new experiences. It’s important to always remember to love yourself first and not to change for anyone else.
Make sure you surround yourself with people who uplift and support you and who make your university experience a positive one.
8. Partying
Now I won’t tell you not to party, but please make sure you’re partying responsibly. It can be easy to fall into a routine of partying and drinking but make sure it doesn’t negatively impact your studies or relationships. You’re the only one who can control you, so know your limit and party safely.
9. Physical and mental health
Firstly, there are lots of amazing services offered at university. From health services to counselling services, there’s lots of support if you need it. Your health should always be a priority, so be proactive about it.
University Health Services is a great place to go if you’re feeling under the weather, need a prescription, or just want a general check-up. Anything your family doctor does for you, Health Services can do for you.
If you’re feeling homesick, anxious and overwhelmed or just like you need to talk to someone, don’t be afraid to go to Counselling Services. They are a great support system and your mental health is very important.
Remember to take time for yourself when you need it, don’t spread yourself thin, and make the most of your time at university!
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