Four Lessons Learned in Four Years of University

By Darren Lacsado

University is a period of life where students learn and grow in often profound and life-changing ways. Over the course of four years, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience that has transformed me both academically and personally. Here are four key lessons I learned during my time here at Concordia.

Lesson 1: Time management is essential.

One of the most important things I learned during my university years is that time management is vital. With a multitude of assignments, classes, and extracurricular activities, it is easy to become overwhelmed and fall behind. However, with proper planning and organization, staying on top of everything and achieving success is possible.

To effectively manage my time, I started by creating a schedule that prioritized my tasks based on their due dates and importance. I also learned to set aside specific blocks of time for studying, socializing, and self-care. By doing this, I could stay focused, keep stress to a minimum, and achieve my academic goals.

Lesson 2: Failure is a part of growth.

Another lesson I learned during my university years is that failure is a natural part of learning. In fact, it is often through our failures that we learn the most and grow the most as individuals.

During my time, I faced several setbacks and failures, such as failing an exam or not getting accepted into the applied psychology program. However, instead of giving up, I learned to embrace these experiences as opportunities for growth and learning. I realized that failure is not the end of the road but rather an opportunity to learn and grow.

Lesson 3: Networking is crucial.

Networking is another key lesson I learned during my university years. Whether it is connecting with professors, alums, or fellow students, building a solid network can open up new opportunities and help you achieve your goals.

By joining clubs, volunteering, and participating in extracurricular activities, I was able to meet a diverse range of people who shared my interests and aspirations. These connections helped me form friendships and bonds and opened doors to internships, job opportunities, and other experiences.

Lesson 4: Self-care is essential.

Finally, I learned that caring for myself is crucial to my overall well-being and success. With the demands of university life, it can be easy to neglect self-care in order to prioritize academic success above all else. However, I realized that neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, stress, and even physical and mental health problems.

To prioritize self-care, I started by ensuring I was getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and exercising regularly. I also made time for activities that brought me joy, such as reading, writing, and spending time with friends and family. By doing so, I was able to maintain a healthy balance between academic success and personal well-being.

These are the lessons I learned during my four years at university that have had a profound impact on my life. By prioritizing time management, embracing failure, networking, and self-care, I was able to grow both academically and personally. These lessons have not only helped me to succeed in university but have also helped me grow as a person. I hope these lessons will help you as much as they have helped me.