Page 17 - Kyalami Issue 1 2025

Kyalami Estates Corporate Brand Bible Design 26
3.0 Folder (Inner)
EDUCATION

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E Embracing the full campus experience
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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,
join study groups, and participate in campus activities. Surrounding yourself Dr Linda Meyer
with peers who share your goals and interests can make all the difference in Managing Director of The
navigating the highs and lows of university life.” Independent Institute of
Education’s Rosebank College and
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L Leveraging campus resources s Oxbridge Academy
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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
students succeed.
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B Building a healthy, balanced
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“The workload may feel overwhelming at first,” Dr Meyer acknowledges. “But l lifestyle
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F don’t wait until it’s too late to seek help. Asking for academic or personal Finally, Dr Meyer emphasises the
assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Familiarise yourself with
available resources early, so you know exactly where to turn when you need importance of maintaining a balanced
lifestyle. The freedom of university can
R support.” lead to poor habits if students are not
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N Navigating technology and campus logistics intentional about their routines.
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Adapting to university life also involves mastering new systems and tools. “Develop healthy habits from the start.
O Students must become adept at using technology, including learning Create a manageable balance between
management systems, online libraries, and communication platforms.
academics, personal time, and social
activities. Challenges and
“Spend time on the student portal to understand how it works and ensure
M he first year of university A A time of independence and growth you have the necessary tech equipment,” Dr Meyer advises. “You’ll rely opportunities will come your way, and
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represents a monumental
a healthy foundation will ensure you
milestone for South African school “Transitioning from high school to university is a life-altering heavily on devices and software for coursework, communication, and can navigate them effectively.”
experience,” Dr Meyer explains. “It is equal parts thrilling and
research. Familiarity with these tools is essential to keep up with academic
C Tleavers. It is a time intimidating as students step into a new world of independence, demands.” She encourages students to remain
filled with excitement and uncertainty,
where new beginnings are marked by increased academic demands, and personal growth. It’s not just a open-minded and fully embrace
change of where you learn; it’s the start of a transformative chapter in
the transformative power of higher
L challenges that often feel daunting. your life.” education.
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,
A tell a sobering story: many students are that the first few weeks are a time to adjust. Still, students must also and prepare yourself to make
meaningful contributions to your
unprepared for the profound personal and
lay a solid foundation for success by cultivating one of the most critical
academic shifts that come with stepping skills for higher education: time management. community and the world. Approach it
with curiosity and determination, and
S into this new phase of life. you’ll leave with a qualification and as
a well-rounded individual ready to take
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Dr Linda Meyer, Managing Director of M Mastering time and responsibility on life’s challenges.
“University requires a level of self-discipline and accountability far
S The Independent Institute of Education’s beyond what is needed in high school. Unlike schools, many “By embracing the opportunities and
Rosebank College and Oxbridge Academy,
universities do not enforce strict attendance policies. It can be
flagship divisions of ADvTECH, offers tempting to skip classes, but attending lectures regularly is non- responsibilities of university life,
students can set themselves on a path
R essential insights to help matriculants negotiable for academic success,” Dr Meyer says. toward academic achievement,
personal growth, and future success.”
transition smoothly from school to campus
life. With over two decades of experience She encourages first-year students to create detailed schedules from
O in higher education leadership, she the outset, incorporating classes, study sessions, assignment KKyalami Estates • CONNECT • Issue 1 • 2025 15
deadlines, and social activities. This structured approach, she notes,
emphasises that the key to a successful
university journey lies in preparation, not only keeps students on track but also enhances their ability to fully
O adaptability, and engagement. enjoy campus life without feeling overwhelmed.
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