Hi! Students… How does it feel to be a genuine student? What comes to mind when we talk about students? When I was 16, I was thrilled and enthusiastic to begin my university studies since, in my opinion, students had the flexibility to hang out with whoever and wherever they choose. From my previous perspective, being a student is enjoyable because I will have my own circle of friends, I will be able to travel with my pals, and, most importantly, I will be able to succeed academically. However, while student life may appear to be idyllic, it is often fraught with difficulties. Well, everything comes with a price.
But do not worry! Based on my own experience as a student, here are some life hacks for surviving university.
#1 : Monitor Your Expenditure
How? There are a few practical steps you may take to improve your financial health and attain your goals. First, make a budget for your daily or monthly expenses, such as meals and other needs (biscuits, sweets, toiletries, and so on), and then set the maximum amount you can spend on each item. As for me, I spend no more than RM 15 per day on meals (food from my hostel's café is reasonably priced) and RM 150 per month on groceries. This allows me to more accurately track my spending and save for the future. You can also test it. Make it a habit to write down all of your everyday expenses.
Second, you can examine and alter your spending limitations to ensure they are still in line with your goals. This is because, as students, few of us have our own income; some work part-time, while others do not, so spending patterns may alter over time depending on your financial status.
Third, sticking to a defined budget might be difficult at times, particularly due to peer pressure. In truth, some students were born into affluent homes, and money is never an issue for them, therefore it is normal that we may be frustrated that we do not have the freedom to spend. However, whenever you feel this way, simply analyse your prior monthly savings and see how far you've come, then seek for ways to improve. It always makes me happy to see how much money I was able to save by following my budget. Remember, our future is what matters.
#2 : Say NO to Impulse Purchases
Differentiate between necessities and non-essentials. Prioritise your needs. Give yourself some time to think about it and ask yourself if it's something you genuinely need or if it's just because you saw your friends having it and want to have it too, even if it's unnecessary. In addition, you can try waiting 24-48 hours or a few days to see if you still desire it. Most of the time, you will no longer require it. Most essential, don't acquire items solely to impress others.
#3 : Choose Your Friends Wisely
Find your own group of friends. They can be of various ages, races, nationalities, and even courses. Don't limit yourself to being friends with your own classmates or roommates. Friends with diverse backgrounds and personalities can also teach you about life. Each person has their own viewpoint or opinions, which can broaden your thinking and help you understand how various people perceive things in life. Stay clear from people who talk behind you because they are more likely to stab you in the back. Only maintain those that are honest and respect true friendship.
#4 : Avoid Procrastination At All Cost
Finish your tasks and assignments as soon as you receive them. You can break the large assignment into smaller ones for a few days based on your abilities. If you're having difficulties focusing on your tasks, try the pomodoro technique. Try not to procrastinate because it can lead to tension and blunders in your assignment.
#5 : Engage with Activities Organised by the Clubs or University
Many university clubs offer a variety of programmes to help students develop soft skills, boost self-esteem, get experience, and expand their knowledge. Whenever you have free time, participate in any activity that interests you. I assure you that it will be enjoyable.
Let me know if these tips help you to thrive in your student life ! Finally, enjoy your studies and don't give up. You, too, can excel. <3
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