5, Jalan Desa 3/7,
Bandar Country Homes,
48000 Rawang,
Selangor.
11th May 2020
Dear Meng Kong,
In a blink of an eye, you have already completed your secondary study and will soon start your college life. It is the first real major life transition (转折点) and adapting (适应) to it is not as easy as abc. It is not unusual to feel lonely, homesick (思故乡), stressed, anxious or even depressed while trying to adjust to your new life. I have been surfing the net for the past few days and managed to get some useful tips to make the adjustment process a bit easier for you.
First and foremost, financial management is the biggest challenge for many college students. Bear in mind that needs are more important than wants. If you are not sure which is which, try to live without it and see if you can manage. Always track where you spend your money and watch for patterns. You should never borrow money from your coursemates. Avoid debts as this will burden yourself financially.
Besides, time management is important for a college student too! Without a solid time management, new college students can feel overwhelmed. Unlike in secondary school, where your classes were neatly mapped out, college course schedules vary wide. You might have three classes a day and none the next. You might have classes in the evening or even on the weekend! Therefore, you have to learn to be organise. Always organise and plan how long to spend on specific activities. You can also write out a concrete schedule to allocate your time wisely so you will not overspend your time in sleeping and playing games.
In addition, although studies is important, you should not neglect your social life. Without us with you in college, your coursemates are the ones who will lend you a helping hand whenever you need help. So, connect with your cousemates and they will be more than happy to lend you their notes if you need to take a sick day. You too have to achieve a balance life between academy and social life. You do not necessarily leave your campus to have a balanced life as there are certainly clubs, societies and uniformed bodies in your college campus that cater the diverse interests of college students. You can join basketball club since you like playing basketball so much and you can even show your talent by joining the speech and debate club.
However, life is not always a bed of roses. You would develop some stressful moment but deal with it with an open heart. You can always talk your problems to us or eve your friends that can be trusted. I believe they would definitely be all ears listening to you. Not only that, you can go for some recreational activities such as cycling, swimming and so on whenever you are stressful. These activities can help to reduce your stress level and help you feel more relaxed.
Moreover, your studies is your utmost responsible in your college life. Never let this objective slips your mind. In college, you have to take charge of your own studies independently. Visit library more frequently as it is well equipped with a variety of books approach that makes it easier for your reference. If there are problems remain unsolved, approach your lecturers instantly. They are more than willing to solve your problems. You can also make an initiative in organising a study group. Choose friends that are serious in their studies to study together. This is indeed a good way to exchange ideas support each other academically.
As your beloved brother, this is what I can do for you before you start your adventure in your college life soon! If you ever face any challenges in campus, please remember that my ears and shoulder are always there for you. I wish you a smooth journey in exploring the new chapter of your life.
Your brother,
Timothy
mcky1224's Blog 