2. Most syllabuses are online now since professors don't want to waste paper so don't worry about losing one if you are given a paper copy. Write down any dates that are on there but depending on the class the syllabus could be extremely helpful or just very basic, so try to add your own deadlines for homework or studying so that you don't fall behind.
3. The textbook requirements don't change much in the last couple of weeks before classes start. You can wait until you attend the first couple of classes or you can buy them early. It really doesn't matter. However, lines at the bookstore are insane for the first week so be prepared to deal with that if you do wait.
4. Take a variety of classes at a variety of times. People say early classes are horrible but it may be different for you so try to figure out what's best. Personally, I've found that I can't do labs in the mornings because I'm too tired but I can follow along in early morning lectures since they are less involved. I've also found that I can't do lectures in late afternoon since I get really tired by the end of the day so I can't stand sitting and listening to someone talk for an hour or more but I can do labs around that time since it gives me a chance to move around after a whole day of sitting.
5. Space out your classes. Although it sucks to be at school for a long time, if you are like me and have trouble focusing at home, it's good to have that time between classes to study. It also gives you time to eat or hang out with friends.
6. No one cares if you eat/walk/study alone. Don't feel like a loser if you've had trouble making friends. University is about your education first and foremost so don't worry if your social life isn't great. Generally, most people are too busy studying to have a social life so don't feel like your the weird one for staying home all the time to do work.
7. If you do go to parties and drink, know your limit. Don't drink a lot just because other people are. Go easy the first couple of times until you figure out what your tolerance is. Getting black out drunk all the time isn't a good thing to do, just drink until you feel kinda drunk and stop there. Drink an enjoyable amount, not so much that you regret drinking in the first place.
8. University is not about going to parties, dating, or having a great social life; those are just bonuses you may or may not experience. It's for education. If you just want to have fun, don't go.
9. Although university can be a lot of hard work, remember to schedule in time to do things you want to do. Go for drives late at night, hang out with your friends, sit around watching movies all Sunday, practice your hobbies, etc. If you only focus on studying you are going to crash and burn really quickly. Stress is crazy in university so de-stressing is extremely important.
In the end, going to university isn't for everyone, it requires excellent balancing skills. Everyones' experience is different so just do things the way you want to. Take it easy at first and figure out how it all works, don't go crazy and take a bunch of classes right away or you'll regret it. Overall try to have a good time and get good marks.
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