Pretty soon you'll be sitting in the lecture halls of your first university classes, meeting new best friends, and moving into residence. Starting your first year of university is such an exciting time!

If you're looking to start this new journey with good habits, check out these tips.

1. Allow yourself time for work outside of classroom hours

If your timetable has only 20 in-class hours per week, that doesn't mean you'll have ample free time. A common guideline is for every one hour you spend in class, allow 2-3 hours of reading, assignments, or other independent work.

2. Treat school like a job

You get to create your own schedule at university (how awesome is that!?). Maybe you get to sleep in on Wednesdays, or you have a lecture Monday nights. Whatever it is, you can use your class schedule to set up your days like a job. Start your weekly play with your in-class hours, then your outside-class hours. Use the remaining hours to schedule time for everything else. This could include meals/grocery shopping, going to the gym, club meetings, volunteering and/or your favourite TV show. And don't forget about sleep! When you lay out a weekly plan, you'll know you have enough time for work and self-care.

3. Meet your professors

Most professors and teaching assistants (TA) will have office hours. This is your chance to get to know them and they can be your greatest resources. You can ask questions and discuss any of the content you're unsure of.

4. Seek help when you need it

Transitioning to university can be challenging and overwhelming. That's okay! Take advantage of the resources offered to you. At Western, there are several programs and services for new students as well as the Writing Support Centre, the Wellness Centre, Psychological Services, and more.

Enjoy the summer and good luck starting university in September!