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Hjmb, uz

Dear first year me


25 February 2026  ·  3 min read
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Dear first year me
Dear First Year Me (What I Wish I Knew in My First Year) A University of Zimbabwe Reflection By Anele Muhabe It’s Okay Not to Have All the Answers Dear first year me, don’t stress about having everything planned out. You don’t need to know exactly what you want to do after graduation , most people don’t. UZ will open doors you didn’t even know existed. Be open to change and let your interests guide you. Attend Lectures Religiously (Even the Boring Ones) You’ll be tempted to skip lectures, especially the 8AMs or those taught by monotone lecturers. Don’t. Those lectures, even the dry ones, build your academic foundation. UZ can be academically intense, and staying consistent will save you during exams. Make Friends Beyond Your Faculty You’ll meet amazing people in your programme, but don’t limit yourself. Talk to that law student, the engineer, or the fine arts major. UZ is a melting pot of perspectives , embrace that. The people you meet can change your worldview and may be the same ones who help you in the future. Learn How to Budget UZ life isn’t just about books; it’s also about managing your freedom. That $50 might feel like a fortune today, but it won’t last. Avoid unnecessary spending. Cook your own food when possible, and learn to say “no” to peer pressure. Your future self (and your bank account) will thank you. Use Campus Resources There’s more to UZ than lectures. The library, the Innovation Hub, Career Services, and the sports and cultural clubs , they’re all there for your growth. Get involved. These spaces will not only build your CV but also boost your confidence and skills. Not Everyone is Your Friend Be kind to everyone, but don’t be naive. Some people are there to uplift, others to distract. Know the difference early. Trust is earned , give it wisely. Mental Health is Real University life can be overwhelming. There will be times when you feel isolated, stressed, or even like giving up. It’s okay to ask for help. Talk to someone , a friend, a mentor, or a counselor. UZ’s Student Affairs department can guide you if you need support. Grades Are Important, but Not Everything Yes, your GPA matters, but so do your leadership skills, creativity, emotional intelligence, and work ethic. Don’t obsess over being top of your class at the cost of your health or happiness. Focus on becoming a well-rounded individual. Build a Network Early Start connecting with lecturers, alumni, and professionals in your field. Attend events, career fairs, and workshops. That random conversation could land you an internship or a scholarship later on. Cherish the Moment Lastly, first year flies by faster than you think. Take photos. Laugh hard. Join that club. Dance at that welcome party. Say “yes” to life. These memories will stay with you long after you’ve handed in your final dissertation. Final Words First year me, you’re about to grow more than you can imagine. The University of Zimbabwe will challenge you, shape you, and sometimes break you. But in the end, you’ll come out stronger, wiser, and ready to face the world. With all my heart, Your Future Self
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