Heading to university for the first time is exciting and a little daunting. You know it’s not going to be like high school – you’ll have way more independence, for starters – but the differences don’t stop there.
Here are some things you can expect as you start this new chapter.
Your workload will be more demanding.
University-level course work is challenging and there can be a lot of it. Each course and instructor has its own set of expectations, and you’ll be responsible for balancing them.
What can I do? Develop time-management and long-term project management skills.
Classes can be huge.
If your first-year lectures are really big, you might not be able to talk to your professor in class.
What can I do? Connect with your TA in tutorials and use your professor’s office hours.
You’re going to need guidance.
With new terms to learn, a big campus to navigate and new responsibilities on your plate, a little help will go a long way.
What can I do? Get to know your registrar. They can help you with academic advising, financial counselling, referrals to campus resources and more.
You need to advocate for yourself.
Students with academic/personal/physical challenges can absolutely thrive at U of T. You’re responsible for advocating for yourself, but you can get lots of help.
What can I do? Reach out to Accessibility Services as soon as possible. An accessibility advisor can help you look into academic accommodations, fill out paperwork, build skills and much more.
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Associated Programs
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Associated Services
