Here we are, it’s about that time of the year again where everyone starts preparing for a new chapter of their life. Believe it or not, university is a big step in everyone’s life, and I’ll admit I was unsure as to what to expect! What would life in residence be like? Would the workload be too much? Would I make friends? I’m sure many of you are having these same questions that I did. I won’t lie it is a big adjustment, but it is also an amazing experience. Here are some of my essential tips for incoming students that I wish I knew when first coming to MtA. 

Many people will tell you that one of the most important things to do when moving somewhere unknown to you is to get involved and I would agree. Not only is it good to get involved in the many activities during O-Week for the fun, but it can also be very helpful in forming friendships and meeting new people! I have a few friends that did not participate in orientation activities during their first days at MtA who now realize why it took them so long to meet people. Just remember that everyone else is in the same boat as you; everyone is experiencing a new home away from home. Extending away from O-Week and into the school year, there are so many clubs, societies, and various ways to get involved, so take advantage of these opportunities! 

One thing that I feel is very important to start doing early during the academic year is to use a planner, schedule, or calendar of some kind to keep track of everything. Using a To-Do list can be extremely beneficial in making sure nothing is forgotten. It is easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of responsibility that comes with being a university student, but having things written down can help ease the stress. Staying organized is also beneficial for your mental health. With less school on the mind, you can take more time for yourself and fully enjoy the university experience. It is very important to prioritize your mental health during the transition to university. 

The main source of communication within the university is your MtA email. There you will receive messages from your professors, The MASU, numerous clubs and societies, Student Life, and many more! For this reason, it is essential to keep on top of your emails and make sure to check your inbox at least once a day. It is especially important during the beginning of the academic year as you will be receiving many introductions and updates from all areas of the university. It is also where you’ll be notified about upcoming activities during O-Week!