Top 10 mistakes first-year students make

“The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing.”
Henry Ford

Starting off your first year in post-secondary education can feel like being handed a card game with no instructions whatsoever. You’re expected to figure out the rules and play your cards right—cue the awkward mistakes, forgetful moments and a whole load of “I wish I knew that before.”

We’ve put together a list of the top 10 mistakes to avoid so you tackle this semester like a pro:

#1 Skipping orientation

A man sitting on a couch on a talk-show saying, "I was so tempted to not show up today." — *Via GIPHY*

We get it. Meeting new people in a new environment can feel like the most intimidating thing to do. But orientations are more than free pens and awkward “what’s your major” icebreakers.

During orientation, you learn about your campus shortcuts, meet people who might just save you in group projects and even get free snacks!

Don’t worry if you missed the fall semester orientation. Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber host orientation events for both fall and winter semesters, so you can catch up next year.

Remember: if it’s your first day, it’s theirs too.

#2 Trusting the TTC too much

a cartoon of a pink penguin with black beanie running behind a yellow bus — *Via GIPHY*

If you give yourself exactly 30 minutes to get to class because “the subway is reliable,” you’re already doomed. Delays, “arrived early” buses and random “track problems” are the everyday routine of the TTC.

Commuting is part of the experience and will test your patience and attendance record when you least expect it. So, always give yourself extra time to get to class.

#3 Overloading your plate

a man on a phone call saying, "Let me chack my schedule. Yeah, I think i can make that work." — *Via GIPHY*

Clubs, events, work, parties and even classes are all fun and exciting. But the ‘I can do it all’ philosophy will burn you out fast. Set yourself realistic goals and priorities, take your time and give yourself time to breathe.

It’s always fun to try something new, so include an empty block in your calendar to experience new things without wrecking your schedule.

#4 Thinking you’ll remember every deadline

Two women sitting on a park bench and one says, "Sure, I'll put it in my calendar!" to the other — *Via GIPHY*

Spoiler: you won’t.

With different classes, professors and syllabuses, there’s only so much you can remember before you realize you missed out on an assignment worth 15 per cent of your grade. I know, brutal.

Use a calendar, colour-code courses and map out your month. Having a visual idea of your day will save you stress and improve your grades.

#5 Buying every textbook

A man saying, "How much is that cost?" — *Via GIPHY*

Imagine getting a textbook worth $300 only to find out you don’t even need it. This is one experience every post-secondary student goes through—and regrets it. Check out used textbooks, rentals or free online PDFs from trusted sources.

Pro tip: Wait for the first week to see if the textbook is even needed for the course.

#6 Not asking for help

A yellow cartoon man with glasses surrounded with textbooks, and flipping through one open book. — *Via GIPHY*

You don’t have everything figured out, and pretending you do will only make things harder. There are resources, advisors and staff dedicated to helping you deal with financial, mental and academic well-being. Take advantage of them.

#7 Skipping on those office hours

a man saying, "I'm here to help." to another man — *Via GIPHY*

Common mistake? Treating office hours like an optional assignment. Professors literally set aside time to help you. They answer questions, help with assignments or even just chit-chat about the field you’re studying.

Skipping office hours means missing out on connections and advice that could come in handy later. Take initiative, drop by and allow yourself to stand out from the crowd.

#8 Hanging out only with your old friends

Cartoon of two cats giving high-five. Text reading 'Friendship' reading above them. — *Via GIPHY*

It feels safe, sure. But hanging onto the same old crew without meeting new friends can hold you back. You miss out on people who could actually make your campus life exciting. So, step out of your bubble and go meet new people!

#9 Forgetting to enjoy yourself

A man saying, "Perfect balance" — *Via GIPHY*

Yes, academics matter, but if your life is just deadlines after deadlines, burnout is inevitable. Balance is key.

Check out campus events, IGNITE pop-ups, clubs or grab a coffee with a friend. Self-care is important and can help you thrive in post-secondary.

#10 Missing out on IGNITE

IGNITE image of CSR talking to a student — Picture by IGNITE

IGNITE isn’t just the posters you see in hallways. We’re also your go-to for services, events and clubs (and free snacks). Skipping IGNITE means missing out on tons of student perks. Whether it’s pop-ups, bursaries or advocacy campaigns, IGNITE is dedicated to making your student experience the best it can be.

Pro tip: follow IGNITE on socials so you never miss the next exciting event or giveaway!

Baby steps, one at a time

Two cartoon characters standing together. One saying, "One step at a time" to another. — *Via GIPHY*

Everyone makes mistakes in their first year—it’s part of the experience. The trick is learning from them and moving forward without letting them define you. Trust me, you’ll be a different person by your last semester. It’s all about the progress.

So, breathe, experience and enjoy your post-secondary journey—you got this!

Feature image courtesy of Yanhao Fang via Unsplash.

Don’t know what you need for the semester? Check out what you actually need as a post-secondary student