Overcoming first-year jitters

Dear first-year me,

Entering the realm of higher education stirs a mix of excitement and uncertainty in me. The campus, a vibrant tapestry of ambition, offers both awe-inspiring architecture and a touch of nervousness. Navigating the pathways, I feel a sense of anticipation and the weight of newfound independence. The air is filled with the hum of unfamiliar voices engaged in conversations, a testament to the diverse community I’m now a part of. Amid the practical considerations—choosing classes, settling into my new living space, and forming connections—there’s a subtle unease. It’s the feeling of stepping into the unknown, where possibilities are so very vast, and outcomes become uncertain. This initial jolt of nervous energy reminds me that growth often begins with discomfort. As I take a deep breath and embrace the adventure of university life, I know that these initial jitters are just the beginning; these new feelings that you experience are actually, in essence, a good thing because they show growth. They mark the threshold of a journey filled with self-discovery, where challenges and triumphs will shape my path in ways I can’t foresee. The importance of addressing these initial anxieties resonates deeply with me. Reflecting on my experiences last year, I can confidently say this experience was the beginning of my journey into adulthood. The transition to university life is a defining moment. It sets the tone for the academic journey ahead. Step one into adulthood sounds scary, right? But guess what? Recognizing that these feelings of initial jitters are shared amongst everyone you see—yes, even the cool fashion people or the people who seemingly have an extensive 10-year plan—is not just beneficial but essential. 

About one year ago today, as I strolled down St. George Street, I sensed a unique blend of excitement and apprehension. It wasn’t the usual kind of anxiety I experience; it felt more akin to that first-day-of-school sensation we all remember from kindergarten rather than high school: a palpable mix of excitement and trepidation. Having trouble navigating what seems like a whole city-sized campus simply to find where BL 200 is—it will surprise you—, seeing the mass of a building that is Robarts library, or seeing regular students walk down the streets with cool city street-style, who look like they bleed Playboi Carti or Lana Del Rey. All of these led me to truly believe that I was not meant to be here. It’s safe to say I felt a little bit of imposter syndrome. Here at UofT, it is no surprise that we were all nerds in high school, or at least cared about our academics, but as we all know by now, there is a nagging feeling of doubt where you feel as though you do not fit in with the brilliant minds who study here. The sprawling and bustling environment at UofT can inadvertently intensify imposter syndrome. Amidst the hustle of lectures, research, and bustling student life, it’s easy to perceive oneself as a small fish in a vast pond. The pressure to measure up to peers who seem to have it all together can lead to self-doubt and a sense of being an imposter, merely masquerading as a competent scholar.

With the inevitable stress and the inescapable imposter syndrome that many of us face, there are effective strategies that students can employ to ease these first-year worries and cultivate a stronger sense of belonging. One approach is to reach out to peers, professors, and UofT staff (especially your registrar!). Building connections and a support network can mitigate feelings of isolation. I often put this opportunity aside during my first year; during the summer course selection period, however, I had a stressful situation enrolling in courses. I called the registrar’s office and the situation was quickly resolved! They know all your student credentials and it’s the most personal space you can go to on campus! Managing time efficiently is also crucial; creating a balanced schedule that accommodates both academic commitments and personal time can alleviate stress. UofT provides a wealth of resources that students should tap into, such as academic advisors and mental health services, to receive guidance and support—specifically on the top floor of the library or in the Bissell building! There are several services at your disposal on campus, which you are paying for anyways. They are warm, welcoming, and with staff that will help you anytime. Additionally, setting realistic goals and breaking down large tasks into manageable steps can prevent feelings of being overwhelmed. Prioritizing self-care by engaging in activities that bring joy, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle contributes to overall well-being. There is a work hard (play hard) culture at UofT between many students and peers I have interacted with. Remember that although pursuing your undergraduate studies is a major life event, you should force yourself to do things outside of your studies! Take it from me: during my first semester, I took many strict essay courses. My mind told me that partaking in my hobbies, such as reading, writing, or simply hanging out with my friends was a bad use of my time, but it was most certainly not. Force yourself to have fun. You can start doing so as early as FROSH week. Attending campus events and joining clubs during the orientation phase fosters a sense of community and facilitates connections with like-minded peers. Go to the UofT Student Life page to see everything there is to offer. Should anxieties become challenging to manage, seeking guidance from counselors or mental health professionals is a proactive step toward maintaining mental wellness. It’s important to remember that first-year anxieties are temporary, and by implementing these strategies and utilizing the support systems offered at UofT, I can say with confidence that you will be capable of navigating the initial year of university life. 

P.S. Go to the Sidney Smith Commons website for literally any question you have ever. A lot of important or random information at UofT is often not all in one place, but on this site, it is— With entries by students too, it helps with picking programs (based from student experiences), navigates the jigsaw puzzle that is Acorn, lists all the Recognized Study Groups available, and so much more!!!