Transition from Secondary School to University
Academic Environment
Classes
In university, lectures and tutorials often occur 1-2 times a week. All the responsibility falls on you to attend classes, take notes and ask questions.
Independent learning outside classes
In university, one hour in lectures or tutorials usually requires two to three hours of study on your own. You may be given a reading list but you also have to search for relevant materials in the library.
Assignments and assessment methods
Assignments are not as frequent but may be much longer. Group projects are also common. They are often set 3-8 weeks prior to the deadline. While showing your understanding of the course materials is still important, you need to demonstrate more analytical skills and critical thinking in your coursework.
Tests
Failing one test in secondary school may not have too much effect on the overall grade. However, this is not the case in university. Most tests, essays and projects are worth a large percentage of the overall grade. Making good exam preparation, class attendance and regular study habits throughout the whole semester are essential for success.
Teachers
Your secondary school teachers might have reminded you of deadlines and provided one-on-one help after classes. University professors expect students to take charge of their study. You need to follow the syllabus and learning materials, and be proactive to contact the tutor or lecturer if you need additional help.
Campus Environment
Amount of free time
With how the timetable is organised in university, you may find yourselves having a lot of free time. Learn to manage that wisely and make good use of it for academic and personal development.
Social life
Much of a freshman’s time will be initially devoted to meeting and mingling with new classmates, roommates, club/committee members and professors. There may also be new distractions and temptations, such as alcohol and sex. Knowing your priorities and core values will help you allocate your time and get through any tough situations that may arise.
Extra-curricular activities
We highly recommend you to participate in extra-curricular activities as they promote your all-round development and prepare you for future challenges. A wide range of activities and opportunities are available to enrich your experience, such as sports teams, interests and cultural clubs, community service programmes, and overseas and exchange opportunities. They will give you unique and rewarding experience, help overcome any stress or homesickness that you might be experiencing.
Beware of the Freshmen Pitfalls
The transition to university can be rife with pitfalls. Be prepared for the common stumbling blocks that many freshmen encounter, and learn what you can do to lead a fruitful and enjoyable university life.
Skipping Class
Attending classes is a must, even in the early morning! If you skip a few classes, you would easily fall behind before you know it. Go to every class to keep up and demonstrate your interest in the subject to the professors and lecturers.
Poor Time Management
It is tempting to procrastinate when you feel like you have all the time in the world to spend and no one is watching! Keep track of how much time you spend on social media, surfing the web, playing computer games, socialising and exploring the city etc. Remember to prioritise and plan ahead for studies and assignments at the very beginning of semester.
Overlooking Key Resources
Talk to your tutor, professors after class (Don’t worry, they won’t bite! And most often, you’d be surprised how glad they are to address your questions); go to the library and other learning centres such as Centre for Independent Language Learning (CILL), English Language Centre (ELC) and Mathematics Learning Support Centre (MLSC).
