As the school year closes, students and faculty at Humber College are sharing heir biggest pieces of advice to first-year students.
Grasping with a new environment, new friends, and new classes can be stressful to us all, so a few Humber students hope to help ease the pressure by sharing their largest pieces of advice regarding coursework, connections, and things to remember.
“Don’t slack off,” says Caitlin Orsava, a second-year Film and Media production student.
“It seems obvious, but during first year you’ll be making friends and wanting to hang out with them, but just make sure to remember to make time for your work as well.”
Focusing on schoolwork is an important aspect of the new school-year to everyone, but first-year allows the beginnings of new topics that will follow you throughout your career.
This time is especially important for the remainder of your education, says Jesse Kerr, a second-year Journalism Diploma student.
“My advice to first-year students starting off at Humber would be to really stay engaged with the material,” said Kerr.
“Don’t slow down on your work because it will only affect you worse within the oncoming semesters, and it will pay off much more for you in the future.”
Connecting with friends is an exciting new opportunity.
However, second-year Advertising and Graphic design student Brownyn Keith says that’s not the only connection that you should be making, saying there’s one connection that will help you out in the long-run, and is often overlooked.
“Honestly befriending your professors is super helpful,” said Keith.
“It’s a bit scary but participating and being open with your Prof’s builds a relationship that can be super helpful especially if you’re in a competitive industry. It also helps because you get to understand each other better.”
Professors are a great asset to have for first-years, with many being understanding of personal issues or needs for extended deadlines.
Expectations on yourself may be higher than ever, but it’s okay to know your limits, says Felice Forte, a professor in the Faculty of Media and Creative Arts .
“Be kind to yourself,” said Forte when asked for his biggest piece of advice. “Always do your best, but sometimes good enough is all that’s needed.”
While workload can be overwhelming, it’s okay to set your limits and decide which projects need your undivided attention and take priority and which do not.
“Everything will work out,” said Brownyn Keith.
“Put yourself out there. It’s scary but it’s so worth it, you’ll build lasting relationships with everyone around you.”