We Asked People What They Regretted Most In University. Here’s What They Said
Regrets are the worst things to have, and university life will definitely provide you with heaps of them! We asked working adults what they regretted the most in university. Here’s what they have to say.
Updated 13 Apr 2017
So, you have gotten the course of your dreams and you’re on top of the world. At the start, everything seems bright and that voice inside you whispers steadily, “You’ve got this.”
But what if you don’t?
You read the news about the rising graduate unemployment and you hear friends and family spout regrets about their time in university. Suddenly, university life does not seem so bright. You are terrified.
Don’t worry, you are not alone. We asked working adults: “If you were to do college again, what would you have done differently?”
Here are their honest answers and whispered words of wisdom.
#1. Education is always a top priority
Needless to say, education is the pillar of university life. Many wished that they had concentrated more in class and paid less attention to needless distractions. Others would have pursued different paths.
It is vital to truly know what you want to do in life beforehand. Do some research before ultimately deciding what you want to study. As soon as you’ve made up your mind, do not take it for granted. Be serious from the get go. Be an active student, participate in classes and consult your lecturers. It will do wonders for your education.
#2. University is more than just studying
Formal education isn’t the only thing you can gain from university life. Many realised the importance of gaining soft skills. Being able to communicate effectively, build networks and connections, as well as lead a team will all come in handy once you graduate.
Numerous opportunities for personal enrichment will come your way during your college years. Participate in a wide array of programmes to learn new experiences and sharpen your much-needed soft skills. Your future working self will thank you.
#3. Learn to be financially savvy
Ah, money. The pitfall of humankind. Managing your finances in university is not an easy task. There are so many slippery slopes and temptations to fall into. Alas, it is not an impossible thing to do. You can learn to plan early and avoid plunging into the same trap that troubled many of your seniors.
Learning to control and track your spending is a vital skill for college (and in life). Remember to always plan your expenses early in the semester (and stick to your plan!) to avoid overspending.
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Explore Now >#4. Don’t get lost in love
Who are we to deny the power of love? But it doesn’t mean you have to lose your head over it. Figure out your priorities (education comes first, obviously) and learn how to balance time with other aspects of your life.
While there is no right or wrong when it comes to having relationships in university, learn to love yourself too. When you love yourself, your mind, health, education and life, in general, will thrive.
#5. Give yourself a break
The stress of university can sometimes take a toll on you. Too many students fail to give themselves enough time to rest. Remember the old saying, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy? So be kind to yourself. Pace yourself and remember to pause for breaks.
The pressure is never-ending, as assignments and exams keep coming. Travelling is a good way to find yourself and break away from the mounting pressure. Not only that, you’ll be glad to know that travelling abroad can change you for the better.
These confessions will hopefully serve as reminders and advice that you can carry along with you through your college journey. Do keep in mind that these are their personal experiences, and experiences may vary in different people. Make the best choices that you can and let go of your worries. You are now good to go.
Need more advice on what not to do in college? Read our article on 6 Ways to Destroy Your Future and steer clear of them all!
Ain Abdullah
Literaturist: A permanent tourist in the magical land of Literature. Also, on the highway to fulfilling Crazy-Cat-Lady destiny.
