Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu-Youth Interactive Writer
They say it is not a mistake to make a mistake but it is a mistake to repeat the same mistake.
But one common thing is that students always repeat costly mistakes.
As I always say, college life is a journey of discovery, growth and independence.
It is a time when students are encouraged to spread their wings, explore their passions, and shape their futures.
However, amidst the excitement, it is also a period where many make mistakes, some of which can cost more than just money.
To make no mistakes is not in the power of man but from their errors and mistakes, the wise and good learn wisdom for the future. This week, I am here to hint at the mistakes some students make.
A mistake should not be repeated but we should learn from our mistakes.
I have noted that many students have been making the mistakes previously done and I intend to raise some flags to those who are starting now. Since I write what I see, I have noticed that many students, easily put off thinking about the future while enjoying the present.
The freedom of college life often leads to procrastination, with students delaying assignments or studying until the last minute. This habit can snowball into stress and lower grades. My advice, develop time-management skills and make sure you schedule realistic deadlines. The moment you set your feet on campus, do not forget to build some relationships since some students isolate themselves, missing out on the valuable connections college life offers.
I urge you not to prioritise quantity over quality in friendships as this can lead to shallow relationships. At college, there is a need to invest in meaningful relationships.
Lest we forget that while academics are crucial, employers increasingly value skills like communication, teamwork and adaptability. Focusing solely on grades can leave fellow students underprepared for the workplace.
Some students normally ignore focusing on academics when they set their feet on the campuses. The shift is put to mischievous, partying and sleeping out of campus.
Many students have regretted all their actions when it comes to college.
The moment, they feel that no one is monitoring them, they tend to enjoy to the last. Some become party animals and neglect the reason why they are at college.
Don’t underestimate the importance of attendance, missing classes can lead to gaps in knowledge. It is tempting to sleep in or prioritise socialising over attending lectures, especially when attendance is not mandatory.
However, missing classes can lead to poor understanding of the material and lower grades. Not only does this affect academic performance, but it could also mean spending extra semesters catching up a financial and emotional drain.
Many students receive their first taste of financial independence at college and struggle with budgeting. Impulse purchases, over-reliance on credit cards, or neglect to track expenses can lead to unnecessary debt.
Some students even turn into drug addicts, which results in them dropping out and never sitting for the exams again.
Some, take the freedom too far and end up engaging in promiscuity abandoning the whole idea of academics.
It is in this vein that some students will end up getting pregnant, something which is costly for the rest of their lives.
Nine months pregnant is a set back when you are a student. Never make such a mistake. Taking too many courses to graduate early or too few to enjoy a relaxed semester can backfire.
Overloading can lead to burnout, while underloading might delay graduation. As an experienced student as I am, I urge you to meet with an academic advisor regularly to create a manageable course plan. Many students rush into a major due to parental pressure, trends, or lack of self-awareness.
This can lead to dissatisfaction and a career mismatch.
Do not depart from the cultural norms and values of our communities. I once wrote that charity begins at home not at college. Surprisingly some students turn into monsters the moment they go to university. Most of the negatives which are said by students are emanating from those who go wild. I implore you not to move away from the norms by meeting different characters.
I wish to say, that when you get to college, avoid bad company as it corrupts good characters. It is also important to run your race as an individual, comparing your race with others will force you to do what is bad for your character.
College is a unique phase, rich with opportunities and challenges. Avoiding these costly mistakes can save students from unnecessary struggles and set them up for a successful future.
The key is to approach college life with balance, responsibility, and a willingness to learn not just from textbooks, but from experiences as well. Remember, mistakes are inevitable, but it’s how you learn and grow from them that truly defines your college journey. Please do not wait until the last minute to complete assignments or study for exams.
Until we meet for a toast
Feedback: nyangu.latwell27@gmail.com
