What I wish I knew before applying to university

During the entire university application process until early into my first year, I was a nervous wreck. I was so focused on getting into the program I wanted, keeping up with my grades, and anticipating how scary this new experience would be that I didn’t really enjoy the process.

Coming to university is such an exciting experience and although it's a big change, it’s a fun one, so enjoy it! I learned quickly into my first year that this was going to be one of the best experiences of my life and so far, it has been. It goes by so quickly, so savour every moment, seize every opportunity, and don’t waste so much time worrying like me.

Don’t limit yourself. Take multiple courses in high school that will allow you to apply to as many different universities and as many different programs as possible. Make sure you also push yourself, join lots of different clubs and sports teams and make sure to push yourself academically as well.

Keep your options open. Don’t be super focused on your “dream” program, make sure you apply to lots of different programs and schools. Choosing a university is a super big decision and you never know what might affect it. Distance, campus life, co-op opportunities, academics. Don’t box yourself in before exploring all the amazing opportunities out there. 

Start joining clubs early. I didn’t really join clubs until my third year but if I could go back, I would start in my first year. It’s such a great way to meet new people and branch out beyond just your program or faculty. Waterloo also has so many cool clubs that you’re bound to find something you like, and you’ll also end up meeting people with the same interests as you!

I wish I knew how thankful I’d be for co-op. Aside from the obvious pros like job experience, networking opportunities, and professional development; the four months on, four months off school system is so nice. After a four-month school term, I’m so excited to have a four-month break with co-op, and vice versa. After a while on a work term, I start to miss school. It’s the perfect balance so that I don’t get overwhelmed or burnt out doing one thing for too long.

Something I wish I knew back then is that you can make the most of whatever situation you find yourself in. I didn’t get into my dream program and that seemed like the end of the world at the time, but I ended up being able to do so much with the path I did end up taking and I love it so much. It’s not really about what’s given to you, it’s about what you make of it, so make sure you make the most of it.

I wish I knew how different university would be. I’m living on my own, halfway across the world from my family and I have to be fully independent for the first time in my life. It’s difficult for sure and lonely at times, but if you surround yourself with the right people, you can have a home away from home here. I’ve met so many amazing people from so many rich backgrounds and I’m very lucky to have such a great community, I wouldn’t change it for the world. 

A final tip I wanted to share is to not be so hard on yourself. University is a very new experience, and you’re bound to make mistakes. Don’t let that hold you back. Learn from your mistakes and grow from them because that's what this time is all about. Not everything is going to go to plan, but if you try your best, everything will work out in the end.

These students shared so many amazing tips about applying, student life, academics, and more. If you want even more tips just like these, head over to Ask a Warrior to ask a current student about any other advice or questions you might have!