10 Ways To Survive Your First Year At UVic

We asked faculty and staff what they thought new students should know in order to achieve academic success and have a great university experience. Here are the top 10 responses, as chosen by UVic students.

1. Have reasonable expectations

Mark Cacovic / Via cacovic.com

If your expectations are met you’ll be happy. If your expectations are exceeded you’ll be REALLY happy.

Based on a submission from the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business.

2. Discover all the coffee shops on campus

Love it or leave it, caffeine is the stimulant that keeps this place running smoothly—something students have clearly figured out from the size of the lines.

Based on a submission from Interdisciplinary Studies.

3. Study with someone who needs more help than you

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Questions reinforce what you know, while identifying areas you still need to focus on—plus you’ll feel better about your chances.

Based on a submission from the Island Medical Program.

4. Faculty don't bite

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Be aware of your professors' office hours and don't be afraid to ask for help. Pretty sure none of them have a taste for brains... yet.

Based on a submission from the Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology.

5. University is harder than high school

Make sure you're not just studying a friend's notes. Open your textbook once in a while.

Based on a submission from the Faculty of Education.

6. Take a class for pleasure

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Did you know that UVic offers a course on the Science of Batman?

Based on a submission from UVic Libraries.

7. Meet your new best friend: the library

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Don't go home until the day's work is done; you'll spend less time browsing the web if you're in the library.

Based on a submission from the Department of Chemistry.

8. Get a co-op job

Via uvic.ca

Take charge of your career, join the co-operative education program. Plus you could get to dress up and get paid for it—what more could you ask for?

Based on a submission from Co-operative Education Program and Career Services.

9. Look after yourself first

Take care of your mental and physical health. Be sure to take a break from studying once in a while to enjoying the simpler things in life—psst, Netflix!

Based on a submission from the Department of Political Science.

10. Get involved and embrace the experience

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Step out of your comfort zone. Being part of a diverse community and engaging with new people will open you up to different perspectives and enrich your overall experiences as a student.

Based on a submission from the Equity and Human Rights Office.