Everything I Would Tell My First-Year Self

3 Things I’ve Learned From My 3 Years of University

Some sentiments are only cliché because they’re true; where has all the time gone? It feels like just yesterday I didn’t know how to get to Tory building from CCIS. 

A few months into my third year (with all the shortcuts on campus in tow), it's safe to say there are a few things I wish I knew coming in. Now that everyone has had the chance to get settled, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to share three pieces of advice I would offer to a first year business student. 

1) The Academic Weapon:

If you didn’t study much in high school, brace yourself. All your post-secondary marks are earned, and unfortunately not the result of your superior intellect. You’ll have tons of content to cover, an inordinate amount of caffeine, and you’ll probably go home after dark on more occasions than one. 

But there is a silver lining. You have the freedom to be as creative as you want! Book a study room (maybe even one with a whiteboard so you can practice by teaching a friend). Find somewhere with windows that let lots of light in. Perhaps you’ll find it easier to lock yourself in Cameron Library’s basement because you’re not a fan of background noise. Look up a cafe you’ve never been to and try a drink off their seasonal menu. Make a study group and invite a few classmates you make small talk with. 

It may seem brutal, but sometimes three consecutive exams are all you need to learn lots about yourself. I personally listen to new albums when I need to study for a while. I know people who stick to instrumentals so they don't end up with lyrics in their econ notes. Sadly, I never learned that trick. 

So find your tradeoff. I know I may be sitting in a cubicle for four hours, but at least I’ll discover new music while I’m at it.

A win is a win. 

2) The Socialite:

Get involved! This year is by far my favourite, simply because it's the most fun. I have many early mornings and late nights, but most days are really fulfilling. Now, I may be a bit biased, but there's no easier department to find your place in than Business. With over 20 undergraduate student groups, there are so many opportunities to participate. Some clubs are focused on an annual flagship event (think Network of Empowered Women, or Rocky Mountain Business Seminar), while others are focused on social impact initiatives (like 5 Days for the Homeless). Still others are focused on fostering a sense of community while honing professional skills, like our very own Women in Business. 

It's useful to note that recruitment timelines vary. Some clubs hold application cycles the year prior (hint hint), while many host open panels, case competitions, or seminars you can just sign up for. 

Whether you’re looking to build your network, make a difference, or forge lasting friendships, there’s a group here for you.

3) The __________?

It's your turn to fill in the blank. What is something you want to prioritize? What's important to you? Physical fitness? A creative hobby? Learning a new language? Personal wellness? A side hustle? In the whirlwind of assignments, exams, and deadlines, it's easy to set your interests aside. University is a great time to consciously start building habits that support the person you want to become; instead of looking at these commitments as a distraction from your degree, you can reframe them as investments in your future self.

Let this be your reminder to carve time out of your likely-very-busy-schedule, to tend to what fuels you. Whether that's a monthly catch-up coffee date with friends, journaling, playing an instrument, volunteering, an hour of reading, or a dedicated time to call home if you’re away, find what makes you feel alive.

The next few years of your life are going to be formative, but I also hope they’re fun. By the end of it, you won’t just have a degree, but the memories, connections, and self-assurance to go along with it. What if your goal wasn’t just the credential, but a clearer sense of self? I can definitely say that I’m building the confidence necessary to pursue the kind of life I want in an intentional way. 

So get out there and try new things (fail at them too, it's alright). Enjoy your process of becoming. 

Your big sister in business,

Halen

P.S. Before you go, feel free to check out the ASB Student Groups Page, linked here.