Things to know before starting your first-year at Western University
Starting your first-year at Western University may be a lot to take in at first — from the highs of OWeek excitement to the lows of scheduling an early 8:30 AM lecture — it’s an emotional rollercoaster.
But don’t fret, it’s only a matter of days until you get into a routine and start discovering what works for you. In this article we’ll give you a few tips to help you kickstart your first semester on campus and around the city!
Tracking the bus
When you first arrive in London, especially if you don’t have a car, one of the key things to get the hang of is navigating the London Transit Commission’s (LTC) bus schedule. Just a heads-up though, the delays can be frustrating.
Google Maps is your best friend. Use it to navigate which bus to catch, manage bus transfers and get a rough estimate of when your bus might arrive. However, when detours are in effect, Google Maps may not be the most accurate choice.
That’s where the LTC’s app or website comes in handy. It gives you access to the latest bus updates and schedules, best routes, and detour updates.
Given the ongoing construction in the city, it’s your best bet to use the LTC’s services to ensure a smoother journey.
Western ONECard
Your Western ONECard is your all-purpose essential, a constant companion to keep with you at all times. With it, you get access to the bus and the Student Recreation Center. It also acts as a form of identification for exams (don’t forget it!). For those in residence, it’s your meal plan pass and allows you access into your residence building.
Losing this card is something you definitely want to avoid!
Taking notes
In highschool, taking notes was quite different compared to university. Back then, teachers often waited for you to jot down everything and maybe even checked your notes to ensure you didn’t miss anything.
In university, it’s every student for themselves. The pace that professors lecture at varies, so there is no particular pattern to rely on. It’s up to each student to find a note-taking method that suits them and helps them stay on track.
The key is to discover what works best for you early on. Typing your notes on platforms like OneNote or Google Docs will help you capture information at a faster rate, especially in fast-paced lectures. It also offers the advantage of keeping your notes well-organized and easy to read.
On the other hand, handwritten notes have their own benefits. They help retain information better and are more beneficial for courses involving math or diagram-heavy courses, such as chemistry.
If your budget allows for it, you might want to consider investing in an iPad for note-taking with apps like GoodNotes or Notability. It can be a valuable tool to enhance your study experience.
We recommend three effective techniques for note-taking: the Cornell note-taking system, spaced repetition for better memorization, and the Pomodoro technique. The Cornell layout guides you to divide your notes into three sections: a narrow left-hand column for cues or questions, a broader right-hand column for the main content, and a bottom section for summarizing key points. This method fosters active engagement, streamlines organization, and simplifies the review process.
Spaced repetition is a method that aids long-term memory retention. It involves reviewing information with increasing time intervals each time you revisit it, which reinforces your memory gradually over time.
The Pomodoro technique is a fantastic way to prevent burnout during your learning or work sessions. It involves breaking your study or work time into 25-minute chunks, known as “Pomodoros,” followed by a short 5-minute break. After completing four Pomodoros, you take a longer break of 15–30 minutes. This technique helps maintain focus and energy, reducing the risk of burnout.
Study spots
Western’s campus is one of the most beautiful campuses in Ontario (in our very unbiased opinion), thanks to its stunning natural surroundings. Particularly at this time of the year, studying outdoors is a real treat. Whether it’s in front of the Physics and Astronomy building, near UC Hill, or near the Natural Science building, you can find tranquil spots shaded under the trees, making for excellent study locations.
If you prefer the indoors, then the D.B. Weldon and Taylor libraries are the go-to choices for many students. However, if you’re in search of quieter, less crowded spaces, consider Thames Hall, University College, or Ivey’s Library as excellent options for focused studying.
Beware of the geese
The last tip I can give any first year student coming to Western, and arguably the most important one, is to beware of the geese on campus, they are rumored to attack!
Author: Laila El attar
