Fall is near; the new academic year begins as the season transitions into tints of red and yellow, decorating our campus and welcoming students into the new semester. Whether you’re in your last term of your studies or just beginning your journey, you’ll need to prepare yourself to confidently continue your education.
First and foremost, check your schedule beforehand—know where you are heading and when before stepping onto campus. Plan ahead to save time and ensure you are well organized. I like Google Calendar as it keeps my schedule in order and reminds me of upcoming events and tasks; it’s such a game-changer for personal organization. But no matter your medium, use it.
Update or create an UMO account for transportation. You can do this by yourself, or you can head to the library on either campus, and the staff can guide you through the process. My advice is to use the app rather than the physical card, as it’s more accessible, and I bet you don’t leave your device behind when leaving the house. Also important: know your most convenient route. Believe me, I’ve taken the wrong bus a couple of times. While it can be a matter of patience and practice to know the way to campus by heart, it’s worth it so you can confidently get around. There’s the BC Transit app as well as Google Maps. Try both and see which one fits your needs the most.
To get ready for the rainy season, prepare your fall essentials kit with those items that will make your school day better. You’ll want a rainproof or rain-resistant backpack, a water bottle that can be filled up at the various water stations on campus, comfortable shoes, and a weather-appropriate coat. But what can really support you this semester is prepping for the mental changes as well as the physical. I suggest getting together some go-to good reads, podcasts, and updated playlists to keep the post-summer blues away.
Another tip: take advantage of the libraries on campus—they offer more than just books. The librarians on site, for example, offer help to navigate research for upcoming papers and projects. And if you need to borrow a laptop, the library has also got you covered. There are some great spots, like the study rooms that you can reserve by booking online for self or group study sessions. Be open to joining an existing study group or taking part in a club; they will enhance your experience and provide benefits and connections that will make your time at Camosun a lot smoother.
Mapping out the study areas, like the library, on campus can be a good way to keep exam stress manageable. It depends on the campus, but explore and find what you prefer. Lively study session? The cafeteria. A quiet one? Centre for Health and Wellness on the Interurban campus or in Wilna Thomas at Lansdowne—it has a great café and an outdoor seating area.
But note, to save money after hefty tuition fees, alternate between the on-campus food options and homemade. If you are an international student, update your permits, finances, insurance, and so on; keep everything up to date. These are non-negotiable.
Ultimate pro tip: enjoy the ride. College can be a daunting experience for some but an open mind and heart will make it all the more fulfilling.