First Year – Does It Even Really Count?

For years, students have questioned whether their first year of studying is worth it at all. Do the marks matter? Does the start of university count for anything at all?

Here’s a good list of reasons why your first year counts!

Learning the basics for subsequent years

Some first year marks don’t count toward the final degree, leaving many to question whether their time studying is well spent. All the hours put in at the library can seem like a waste, especially when a rowdy rave is happening around the corner.

However, by studying for marks and grades alone, you’re unlikely to reap the full rewards of education. The content of your subject has to be understood thoroughly, equipping you for what’s to come. Additionally, the opening months get everyone up to speed after time out from education too.

First year is a springboard into what follows, and it’s important you stick your landing well. Consequently, the ‘you only need 40%’ motto is more a myth – one that will stick to you in later years if you don’t shake it off early!

Ultimately, the whole thing is a training session before the big game, so maintaining a decent standard of work is essential.

Knowing your limits

The lovely lie-in is tempting among students after a night out, but living this way too often can cause detrimental affects to your health and lifestyle.

The words ‘never again’ frequently rattle around student halls, and if these habits are not controlled, what can begin as a deserved weekly treat can soon turn into a vacuum of exhaustion and inefficiency. After all, there are many ways in which you can use sleep as a productive activity, refining your senses and energising yourself fully for the day to come. After all, you don’t want to be the grouchy slob showering in the mid-afternoon every day!

Of course, there’s no harm in the odd late party, but too many and you’ll end up a zombie roaming your halls. You can use the year to mature in this regard, even if it is through trial and error!

Building a routine

First year can be a time of Netflix binges and powerful procrastination. Nobody seems to care about anything, supplied as they are with loan money that will maintain them on crisps and beer through winter.

Despite all the free time first year affords, things only get more chaotic from there. Get ahead of the curve, filling any large portions of free time with a part-time job or a society, juggling responsibilities alongside all the fun. This way, the culture shock when entering the working world won’t be so sobering either. Put simply, you can use this time to prepare, earn some cash and even flesh out your CV.

Ease yourself into the life shifts that loom on your doorstep and dip your toe into the world of work. If nothing else, you won’t need to ironically ring up home for money after ranting about your need for independence!

Making friends

The start of university is one big blob of freedom, and it’s only natural to throw yourself into the fun! After all, what’s university without friends? Whether they’re the comrades of the club or the trusty house homies, they’re all needed for a good time!

Being social is a stimulant for sanity, ensuring you don’t become bogged down and isolated in busy work. Of course, many have a fear of not staying in touch with their university buddies once their student years are over, so pick yours carefully. You want a set of characters who are loyal and kind, not just using you for a taxi or scapegoat. Fortunately, first year allows you the time to make those distinctions and build bonds accordingly.

Ultimately, it takes effort to carry out mate maintenance, especially if those relationships are to survive long term. Get to it while time allows!

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