What I Learned in My First Year
Starting university is often described as a fresh start, but what no one quite prepares you for is how much you’ll learn outside the classroom. From finding community as an international student and learning to manage my time to embracing challenges, that first year became a foundation for both personal and academic growth.
Learning to Ask for Help
One of the first lessons I learned at UTM was that it’s perfectly okay to ask for help. University can be demanding, especially when you’re adjusting to new expectations and teaching styles. At first, I thought I had to figure everything out on my own, but I quickly realized that UTM offers incredible support systems designed to help students succeed.
The Robert Gillespie Academic Skills Centre (RGASC), for instance, became one of my go-to resources. Whether it was learning how to structure an essay, improve my study habits, or prepare for exams, the RGASC staff were always patient and encouraging. They offer workshops, one-on-one appointments, and online resources that can make a huge difference, especially when you’re new to university-level coursework.
Similarly, visiting my professors’ and TAs’ office hours was one of the best decisions I made. It’s easy to feel intimidated at first, but professors genuinely appreciate when students show initiative. Those conversations helped me clarify difficult concepts, understand assignments better, and even opened doors for future opportunities. Office hours aren’t just about academics - they’re a great way to build connections with people who can mentor and guide you throughout your degree.
Finding Balance Through Time Management
If there’s one skill that defines success in university, it’s time management. Between classes, readings, assignments, and social commitments, the semester can feel overwhelming before you know it. During my first term, I often found myself racing towards deadlines or sacrificing sleep just to keep up. It took a bit of trial and error, but I learned that staying organized isn’t about doing more, it’s about planning smarter.
Google Calendar became my best friend to track lectures, deadlines, and even personal commitments. Color-coding my courses and setting reminders helped me visualize my week and balance my workload. Some of my friends preferred paper planners or apps like Notion, but the key is to find a system that works for you.
Another strategy that helped was breaking large tasks into smaller goals. Instead of writing an entire essay in one sitting, I’d plan to complete the outline one day, the draft another, and revisions later. This not only made work less stressful but also improved the quality of my submissions.
Living in Residence and Building a Sense of Belonging
Living in residence during my first year was one of the most transformative parts of my university experience. Moving away from home for the first time was both exciting and nerve-wracking.
From late-night study sessions in the common room to spontaneous conversations in the hallway, residence life made it easy to connect with people who were going through the same ups and downs. My floormates became some of my closest friends, and we supported each other through everything: stressful midterms, homesickness, and even laundry disasters!
What I loved most about living in residence was how connected it made me feel to campus life. It was easy to attend events, explore clubs, and get involved in activities that helped me feel more grounded at UTM. The Residence Life team also played a huge role in creating that sense of belonging. Residence Dons and Education Facilitators were always there to check in, offer advice, and organize fun programs that helped residents bond.
If you ever get the chance to live on campus, I highly recommend it. It’s not just about convenience, it’s about community. Being surrounded by people who are also figuring out university life helps you grow socially and emotionally, and it truly makes UTM feel like home.
The Power of Community: Making Friends and Joining Clubs
Perhaps the most meaningful part of my first year was learning the importance of community. University can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re away from home or adjusting to a new country. That’s why making friends and getting involved on campus is so important.
At first, I was hesitant to join clubs because I wasn’t sure where to start. But during UTM’s Clubs Fair at the start of the year, I discovered how many options there really are — from cultural and academic clubs to hobby-based ones like photography or debate. Joining a club not only helped me meet people with similar interests but also gave me a sense of belonging.
Through events hosted by the UTM Student Union (UTMSU) and the International Education Centre (IEC), I met some of my closest friends. We attended workshops, volunteered together, and even studied late at the library during exam season. These friendships became my support network, people who understood the same challenges and celebrated the same small victories.
If you’re not sure how to make friends at first, start small. Talk to the person sitting next to you in class, attend your Frosh Week, orientation, or join a study group. UTM also offers many Peer Mentorship Programs, where upper-year students guide you through the academic and social aspects of university life. Reaching out might feel uncomfortable at first, but every great friendship starts with one small conversation.
Adapting and Growing
I learned that it’s okay to not have everything figured out right away. There will be times when things don’t go as planned, you might miss an assignment deadline, struggle with a difficult course, or feel unsure about your major. But every setback is a learning experience.
I found that being kind to myself was just as important as working hard. UTM’s Health & Counselling Centre (HCC) offers mental health support, and their services are confidential and free for students. Taking care of your well-being makes a huge difference in how you experience university life.
Looking Back
When I think back to my first year at UTM, I realize that what I learned went far beyond textbooks and exams. I learned how to seek help when needed, manage my time effectively, find community, and take care of myself. Each of these lessons continues to shape my university experience today.
To every incoming student: your first year will be full of new experiences, and it’s okay to feel uncertain at times. Be open to learning, take advantage of the resources around you, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. The more you get involved, the more rewarding your university journey will be.
So, with that I’d like to welcome you to UTM! A place where you’ll learn, grow, and create memories that will stay with you long after graduation. I hope this campus becomes as much of a home to you as it has been to me.
