Page 13 - Boardwalk Issue 1 2025

EDUCATION

Embracing the full campus experience
The university is not just about academics. It is an opportunity to grow
holistically, and the best higher education institutions offer a vibrant array
of opportunities to enrich student life. Dr Meyer urges first-years to take
advantage of these resources.

“Join clubs, societies, and professional networks. Whether it’s a sports team,
cultural group, or academic club, these experiences will complement your
studies and help you build meaningful relationships. Some people you meet
may become lifelong friends, professional collaborators, or mentors who shape
your journey.”

She adds that building a support network early is vital.

“Making new friends takes time, so be proactive. Attend orientation events, Dr Linda Meyer
join study groups, and participate in campus activities. Surrounding yourself Managing Director of The
with peers who share your goals and interests can make all the difference in Independent Institute of
navigating the highs and lows of university life.” Education’s Rosebank College and

Oxbridge Academy
Leveraging campus resources
One of the first tasks for incoming students should be to explore their
institution’s resources. Libraries, tutoring centres, counselling services, and
career guidance offices are invaluable support systems designed to help Building a healthy, balanced
students succeed. lifestyle
Finally, Dr Meyer emphasises the
F “The workload may feel overwhelming at first,” Dr Meyer acknowledges. “But importance of maintaining a balanced

don’t wait until it’s too late to seek help. Asking for academic or personal lifestyle. The freedom of university can
assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Familiarise yourself with available lead to poor habits if students are not
R resources early, so you know exactly where to turn when you need support.” intentional about their routines.

“Develop healthy habits from the start.
Navigating technology and campus logistics Create a manageable balance between
O Adapting to university life also involves mastering new systems and tools. academics, personal time, and social
Students must become adept at using technology, including learning
activities. Challenges and opportunities
management systems, online libraries, and communication platforms.
T a monumental milestone for South “Transitioning from high school to university is a life-altering experience,” “Spend time on the student portal to understand how it works and ensure you them effectively.”
M he first year of university represents A time of independence and growth will come your way, and a healthy
foundation will ensure you can navigate
have the necessary tech equipment,” Dr Meyer advises. “You’ll rely heavily on
African school leavers. It is a time
C filled with excitement and uncertainty, Dr Meyer explains. “It is equal parts thrilling and intimidating as students devices and software for coursework, communication, and research. Familiarity She encourages students to remain
step into a new world of independence, increased academic demands,
with these tools is essential to keep up with academic demands.”
open-minded and fully embrace
where new beginnings are marked by
and personal growth. It’s not just a change of where you learn; it’s the
challenges that often feel daunting. start of a transformative chapter in your life.” the transformative power of higher
education.
L Unfortunately, high first-year dropout
rates at universities across the country Acknowledging the gravity of this transition is crucial. Dr Meyer advises “University is a time to explore, grow,
tell a sobering story: many students are that the first few weeks are a time to adjust. Still, students must also lay a and prepare yourself to make
A unprepared for the profound personal and solid foundation for success by cultivating one of the most critical skills for meaningful contributions to your

academic shifts that come with stepping into higher education: time management. community and the world. Approach it
this new phase of life. with curiosity and determination, and
you’ll leave with a qualification and as a
S Mastering time and responsibility well-rounded individual ready to take on
Dr Linda Meyer, Managing Director of “University requires a level of self-discipline and accountability far beyond life’s challenges.
The Independent Institute of Education’s what is needed in high school. Unlike schools, many universities do not
S Rosebank College and Oxbridge Academy, enforce strict attendance policies. It can be tempting to skip classes, but “By embracing the opportunities and

flagship divisions of ADvTECH, offers attending lectures regularly is non-negotiable for academic success,” Dr responsibilities of university life,
essential insights to help matriculants Meyer says. students can set themselves on a path
R transition smoothly from school to campus toward academic achievement, personal

life. With over two decades of experience in She encourages first-year students to create detailed schedules from growth, and future success.”
O higher education leadership, she emphasises the outset, incorporating classes, study sessions, assignment deadlines, Boardwalk Meander Estate 11 Issue 1 · 2025
11
that the key to a successful university
and social activities. This structured approach, she notes, not only keeps
journey lies in preparation, adaptability, and students on track but also enhances their ability to fully enjoy campus life
O engagement. without feeling overwhelmed.

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