Matriculants entering higher education can lessen this “culture shock” by making the right preparations. This will ensure a better outcome, an education expert says.
“First-year dropout rates have historically been – and remain – a problem in South Africa,” says Natasha Madhav, senior head of programme at the Independent Institute of Education.
She says there are numerous reasons why students with seemingly good prospects struggle during their first year.
Many have to deal with a combination of factors, which include: the relative loss of adult supervision and institutional structure of schools and the need to work more autonomously; the increased academic demand at university; the culture shock of campus life; the temptations of the social scene; personal circumstances; and a lack of support.
Also, many did not do their research properly before settling on a qualification and institution, and will soon find themselves at sea as they realise they are on the wrong academic path.
“By getting your head in the right space before you even set foot on campus, a great deal of potential challenges can be either ameliorated or neutralised,” Madhav says.
In the coming weeks, prospective students and first years who are already enrolled at a university can take various steps to firm up their study foundations.
U-turn or full stream ahead
Be confident that you have enrolled for the right qualification (for you) at the right institution, Madhav says.
When considering whether you have made a good decision about your studies, ask yourself the following questions:
- Have I chosen a qualification that matches my interests and my vision for my future?
- Has my institution been clear about the curriculum and its relevance to what is required in the industry in real life?
- Am I clear about how my qualification will help me enter a specific field or career, or am I still vague about my prospects post-graduation?
- Does my institution have a demonstrable track record in helping graduates bridge the gap between the world of study and the world of work?
Getting a satisfying answer to these questions will set your mind at ease that you are on the right track. If, however, uncertainty remains, it is not too late to take action.
“Make the change now, while there is still time and your potential losses are limited,” says Madhav.
Logistics
Make sure you get all your logistic ducks in a row before heading to tertiary education, Madhav advises.
“Stay on top of your institution’s communication with future students, so that you know when, where and how everything is expected to happen. Sort out living arrangements if you are going to be away from home, put together a budget and – as far as possible – ensure that you have the textbooks, technology and stationery you’ll require.”
While not all of these will realistically be in place on day one, understanding where the gaps are, and what you have to work with, will help you to start out with a plan.
Mental Preparedness
Knowing what’s coming, and how you are going to approach this new phase, is crucial.
Think about what you want from your time in higher education, the outcomes you wish for yourself and the challenges that might stop you from reaching your dream.
- How will you handle the party life?
- How serious are you about attending all lectures – even ones starting at 08:00 – and submitting assignments timeously?
- What are your daily, weekly and monthly goals, and how will you ensure you reach them?
- Do you know where you will be able to go for assistance – emotionally or academically – at your institution?
“Working towards your qualification can be a most exciting and fulfilling time if it is underpinned by a clear vision, discipline and determination,” says Madhav.
“Take control of your life and your future from the outset, so that you can step into your studies with confidence.”
