Whether you are counting down expectantly to the start of the new Academic Year, or anxiously wondering what University life will be like, here are five things you can consider to meaningfully occupy your time and prepare yourself for this new and exciting chapter ahead!
1. Take advantage of open borders
Travel with friends or go solo to neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia and beyond! Aside from the experiences abroad, travelling is a great way for you to learn more about another country’s culture and to gain new perspectives on different ways of living. Being away from your home also allows you to become more independent. Not only are these crucial skills in University, but it also prepares you for residential stay at Cinnamon Wing!
2. Travel from the comfort of your own room
Hop between genres of books, toggle between time periods, or tap into different themes and issues to expand your mind! If you’re wondering “why read now when you have to devour textbooks and journal articles once University starts anyway?”; you may actually miss reading for leisure once term begins, so this is a great period to work on your ever-growing to-read list.
3. Pick up a new skill or try something new!
Always wanted to learn how to play the guitar, use Photoshop or drive? Now is the time to pick up these new skills. You may also consider something out of your comfort zone. Being adventurous and challenging yourself is an advantageous mindset to adopt in NUS College where you can expect many new experiences.
P.S. Some useful skill sets may also help you earn some extra bucks by picking up jobs on the NUS Student Work Scheme portal!
4. Start volunteering
Another meaningful way to spend your holidays is to volunteer with social service organisations or non-profit organisations. This can include befriending the elderly, mentoring children, or even initiating your very own project! Volunteering should ideally be a sustained activity as you will be building bonds with a community. Check out NUSCares NOW! to stay updated on how NUSC is serving the community!
5. Plan your University journey
Academics, CCAs, campus living, hackathons, exchange programmes, internships – the list of things to do at NUS College is endless! While it might seem early to start planning for your campus life, let’s admit it – some of us take this time to really ponder about the things we wish to achieve or try out when school starts. Having a broad idea of what you hope to gain will definitely help in your decision making process when school begins.
Not sure where to start researching, or what should be your priorities while at University? Fret not! Each freshman will be assigned to a peer mentor to guide you through your journey. But, it starts with knowing yourself.
Before University begins, take this time to rest and catch up with your friends and loved ones! If you have not already done so, sign up for Social NOW! to make new friends with fellow freshmen and seniors, while bonding over games and fun. In the meantime, stay healthy and we cannot wait to welcome you on campus soon!
