In anticipation of the new school year starting next week, it is a great time to focus on all the amazing new knowledge that one will gain.
Transitions from elementary to high school or from high school to post-secondary can especially be exciting new moments and milestones in the educational journey.
While one might feel a sense of nervousness when entering a new environment, going in with an open mind and an optimistic mindset can help ease the transition.
For young students entering high school, Grade 8 is a very exciting time to explore a variety of subjects while being exposed to a different type of learning environment, with new teachers and the block system.
Keeping binders organized and noting deadlines is helpful when trying to manage the classes during the day.
Students should strive to seek help from teachers if they need clarification on anything, and not hesitate to ask questions in class.
Students entering the post-secondary system are often faced with choices in regards to selecting courses, scheduling study times and balancing other responsibilities.
To deal with the new learning curve, it can be helpful to continue practising successful study habits that have worked in the past. Furthermore, it would be a good idea to create a weekly study timeline for assignments and exams happening later in the semester.
Though these assignments may seem far in the future, the semester goes by quite quickly, and reviewing deadlines on an ongoing basis and dividing the work to complete on a weekly basis is quite effective.
Reviewing notes during the semester can also ensure that one does not have to quickly cram a lot of information during midterm or final exam time. Professor and TA office hours are an invaluable resource to address questions a student might have.
As I have discussed in a previous column, the issue of selecting majors is also an important decision, and students should try to take a variety of courses to see which subjects they are most passionate about.
Furthermore, scholarships and bursaries are also available, and students should make note of the eligibility criteria.
The first month of school is a great time to explore new clubs and activities to join. Involvement in such clubs or student groups can help create a balanced school experience, allow you to meet other likeminded individuals.
I wish all students a very successful school year ahead; I’m sure that you will enjoy learning something new every day!
Japreet Lehal, a student at Simon Fraser University, writes monthly for Peace Arch News.