Just over a year ago, I stepped into the world of university as a wide-eyed 19-year-old. Overwhelmed, excited, stressed, and downright terrified-those were the emotions that swirled within me as the first semester began. I was a small fish swimming in the vast ocean of „Freshers.“ But as I navigated through the maze of academia, I made a lot of mistakes-and each one taught me something invaluable. Now, I want to share those lessons with you, so you can skip the stumbling and stride confidently from the start.
Mistake 1:
Not Starting Early
„The old saying goes, ‚The early bird catches the worm,‘ and while you’ve probably heard it countless times, there’s wisdom in its repetition. Being early isn’t just a cliché-it’s a strategy. But early for what, you ask?
Be early to secure your student accommodation.
- Be early in choosing your courses.
- Be early to register by following the guidelines to the letter.
- Be early to your first lecture-and to every lecture thereafter
- Be early in seizing the opportunities that come your way.
And most importantly, be early to embrace failure. Trust me, it’s the last one that will teach you the most.“ Relevant Resources:
- StEP: The Student Introduction Period is essential for both Bachelor’s and Master’s students to get familiar with the university, its resources, and life in Saarbrücken.
- Welcome Week: International students can benefit from this hybrid event, which covers onboarding for digital tools like Moodle and MS Teams.
Mistake 2:
Not Learning How to Learn
University is a vast reservoir of knowledge, but diving into its depths isn’t always straightforward. Unlocking this treasure may require more than just turning a key. Unlike high school, there’s no one guiding you every step of the way, checking whether you’re on track or falling behind. The endless possibilities and choices can feel overwhelming, leaving you unsure where to begin. But here’s the secret: the sooner you figure out your approach to learning, the better. Don’t hesitate to join a mentoring program, consult with a senior, or attend your professor’s office hours. Ask for help-there’s no shame in it. Above all, learn how you learn best. Find the methods that suit you, identify the optimal times for focus, and, if it helps, join a study group. The key is to stop over-planning and start doing. Once you begin, motivation will follow. Relevant Resources:
Maths Prep Course: For students in technical fields like computer science, this course is crucial to get a head start. It’s highly recommended before diving into your core courses.
Mistake 3:
Losing Sleep (and Hair) Over That One Tough Class
We’ve all been there-pouring over textbooks, staring at the same equations, or re-reading dense articles late into the night. Stress over that one tough course can seem all-consuming. But let me offer a reality check: it’s just one class, and the consequences of unchecked stress can be far-reaching. Chronic stress doesn’t just affect your performance in one course — it chips away at your mental and physical health. Burnout can lead to exhaustion, anxiety, and even depression. In extreme cases, it can cause you to drop from your studies altogether. Balance is the key. Sleep! At least for 7-8 hours. Heat healthy and whole foods. Exercise not just for your body but your mind. Stay hydrated. Socialise and maybe make few real friends you can talk to. Remember, no single class is worth sacrificing your overall well-being. Stress may be inevitable, but learning to manage it is essential for a healthy, balanced academic life. Relevant Resources –
- Mindfulness Workshops & Well-being Programs: Saarland University offers various well-being workshops that focus on managing stress and maintaining mental balance. These workshops can help you learn relaxation techniques and stay mentally fit during the intense academic periods.
- Sports and Fitness Classes: The university’s sports programs
Include yoga, meditation, and fitness training. These activities not only help you stay physically healthy but also mentally balanced, offering a perfect way to de-stress after a long day of lectures.
Mistake 4:
Not Taking Breaks When You Need Them
In the frantic pace of university life, it can feel like there’s always something that needs to be done – a project due, an exam looming, or a task you forgot about. But here’s the truth: sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is nothing. Yes, you heard that right. Taking breaks isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Just like a computer, you need time to reboot, recharge, and clear out the mental clutter that builds up. Burning yourself out isn’t going to get you to the finish line any faster. The world won’t collapse if you spend an afternoon relaxing, going for a walk, or just catching up on sleep. In fact, those breaks might just be the secret to more effective learning and maintaining your sanity to keep the balance between work and rest, try these simple but Game-changing moves. Set a break timer — work for 50 minutes, then give yourself a 10-minute mini-recharge. Stretch, sip some water, or step outside for a breath of fresh air. Schedule „you time“ like it’s an important class — whether it’s yoga, hanging out with friends, or binge-watching that show everyone’s talking about. And seriously, don’t treat sleep like an optional bonus. Your brain’s a lot sharper when it’s well-rested. You can’t survive on caffeine and adrenaline forever, so hit the pillow like it’s your secret weapon!
Relavent Resources
- Leisure Events and Social Clubs: Throughout the semester, the University organizes barbecues, social nights, and cultural events. Check out events organised by ZIS and ESN. These offer great opportunities to unwind, socialize, and temporarily Step away from the academic grind while building connections with other students.
by Nithyashree Gangadharaiah