Felt invisible in high school? Here’s how to find your people in university

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Orientation Week can often be considered as the unofficial start to university life in Canada. If you’re a first-year student, you are probably familiar with all the hype: welcome events, new people, free snacks, cool swag, packed schedules and a lot of energy. 

But behind the fun and Instagram stories, Orientation Week is also your first real taste of what university is like. And while the week’s activities are intended to be informative and fun, it’s totally normal to feel nervous, unsure or even a little lost. 

So, if you’re gearing up for your first week on campus, here’s a look at what Orientation Week is and what it isn’t. 

Friendships take time. You’re not behind if you’re still figuring it out. 

Orientation is more than fun and games

There’s no doubt that Orientation Week is designed to be exciting. Between welcome events, themed socials and ice-breaker activities, your calendar will likely fill up fast. But beyond the fun, Orientation is also your first hands-on introduction to how university life works — and that part often gets overlooked. 

This is the week you’ll start piecing together the daily details of student life. From navigating your schedule to figuring out where to go for help, it’s the behind-the-scenes stuff that sets you up for success later. You'll likely: 

• Pick up your student card and learn to use your campus portal 
• Find out how to read your schedule 
• Learn where your classes, study spaces and supports are 
• Discover how to get tech help, academic advising or counselling if you need it 

These necessary first steps early on will make your life easier. 

Also, check if your university offers optional sessions on practical skills including budgeting, managing stress or time management. They might not sound thrilling, but they’re packed with tips that can save you a lot of stress down the road. 

You don't need to make friends right away

One of the biggest misconceptions about Orientation is that everyone immediately finds their best friends for life. But here’s the truth: most students don’t meet their best friends during Orientation Week. You might meet people you connect with, or you might not. Both are completely normal. The friendships that stick often form over shared classes, late-night study sessions or even months down the line.  

Friendships take time. You’re not behind if you’re still figuring it out. 

Feeling lost? That's normal too

Most students get turned around at some point during Orientation — and not just on campus. Emotionally too, the week can feel like a lot. You might walk into the wrong building. You might not know where the library is. You might start questioning everything about your program. It’s all part of the learning curve. Use this week to: 

• Walk around and explore without the pressure of getting everything right 
• Ask for help as most people are happy to point you in the right direction 
• Check out places you’ll return to later: student services, academic advising, quiet study spots 

You’ll feel more confident navigating campus once you’ve wandered a little. 

Orientation leaders know what you're going through

Those loud, cheerful students leading your group? They’ve been exactly where you are — overwhelmed, unsure and maybe even homesick. They can: 

• Recommend professors, electives and affordable food spots on or nearby campus 
• Share what helped them through tough semesters 
• Normalize any doubts you’re having 

Don’t be afraid to ask them questions. They’re there to help you. 

You're allowed to say "No thanks"

With events happening back-to-back, it can feel like you must do it all. But you really don’t. Orientation isn’t a checklist; it’s a chance to find your pace. You’re allowed to: 

• Skip a party and relax in your room
• Say no to an event that doesn’t feel like your vibe  
• Choose quiet over crowds when you need to recharge 

Setting boundaries now is good practice for the rest of your academic life. You don’t have to do it all to make the most of the week. 

The classes, friendships and routines will come in time. So, take it one step at a time. And know that it’s okay to not have all the answers right away. 

One week doesn’t define your whole university experience 

Some people have an amazing time during Orientation. Others feel awkward, overwhelmed or out of place. Whether you’re loving every minute or just feel like you survived it, this one week will not define your whole experience. If you don’t love every second of it, it doesn’t mean you chose the wrong school or that things won’t improve. There’s still time to find your rhythm. 

It's okay not to have everything figured out

University is a big change. If you’re feeling excited and nervous, that’s normal. If you’re not sure where to go, what to join or how to feel — that’s okay too. No one starts university with a perfectly mapped-out plan. Orientation can bring a lot of “firsts”: 

• First time living away from home 
• First experience of individual freedom and responsibility 
• First moment of self-reflection and questioning, “Can I really do this?” 

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to have all the answers. No one does. If you're heading into Orientation Week with a mix of excitement, curiosity and a little anxiety — you’re exactly where you need to be. Ask for help when you need it. Rest when you need to. Try new things at your own pace and talk to people when you’re ready.  

Whether you’re stepping onto campus for the first time or returning with a fresh mindset, Orientation Week is your invitation to start exploring. You’re not expected to have it all sorted by the end of the week. The classes, friendships and routines will come in time. So, take it one step at a time. And know that it’s okay to not have all the answers right away. 

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University life often feels like diving into a whirlwind of new experiences. For many students, it’s their first real taste of freedom. However, the transition from high school to university can be overwhelming, as students juggle new responsibilities, manage part-time jobs, explore extracurricular activities, and navigate a complex social life.

To help smooth the path to a successful first year, here are five common mistakes that first-year students should avoid:

Neglecting Time Management

One of the biggest hurdles in university is mastering time management. Unlike high school, where days are structured, university requires self-discipline. Many students struggle to juggle classes, study time, and social activities, leading to procrastination and last-minute stress. To tackle this challenge, create a well-balanced schedule that allocates time for studying, attending lectures, and participating in extracurricular activities. Using planners or digital apps can help you stay organized and on track.

Overlooking Self-Care

In the hustle of academic and social life, it’s easy for first-year students to neglect their well-being. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for both physical and mental health. Skipping meals, pulling all-nighters, and ignoring exercise can negatively impact your health and academic performance. Establish a routine that includes regular meals, sufficient sleep, and physical activity. Prioritizing self-care isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about being your best self to face academic and personal challenges.

Ignoring Campus Resources

Universities offer a wealth of resources designed to help students succeed, including academic advising, counseling services, and tutoring centers. However, many first-year students hesitate to seek help due to pride or unfamiliarity with these resources. Failing to use these supports can lead to missed opportunities for assistance. Make it a point to explore and utilize campus resources; they are there to help you excel. Whether it’s attending workshops or meeting with a counselor, tapping into these resources can provide valuable support throughout your university journey.

Avoiding Engagement

University life extends beyond classroom walls. It’s also about building connections and engaging with the campus community. Many first-year students stick to their comfort zones, missing out on the rich experiences’ university life offers. Joining clubs, attending events, and meeting new people can enhance your university experience and help you build a network of friends and mentors. Getting involved not only enriches your social life but also opens doors to new opportunities and experiences that shape your future.

Not Seeking Academic Support

The leap from high school to university can be significant, with heightened academic expectations. Struggling with coursework without seeking help can lead to unnecessary stress and lower grades. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors, teaching assistants, or academic advisors if you’re struggling. Forming study groups with peers can also provide additional support and deepen your understanding of challenging material. Seeking help early can prevent problems from escalating and improve your overall academic performance.

Embracing challenges and seeking support can transform the first year into a rewarding and successful experience. Embarking on university life is a transformative journey full of growth and discovery. By avoiding these common mistakes, first-year students can set themselves up for a successful and fulfilling academic adventure.

Be sure to check out UniversityStudy.ca and follow us on social media for updates, advice, and inspiration as you navigate university life. 

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This article was written by Christina Kaye, a freelance writer who works in Vancouver, British Columbia.

So you’ve done all your preparation, and you’re sitting in your new home waiting for classes to start. What happens now?

Getting settled

Once you arrive at your new college or university, get in touch with the international students office or counsellor. They will have a wealth of information about the university, tuition payments, legal and immigration issues, and designated people who will help you if you have any problems while you are attending school. Most universities and colleges will have a “welcome week”, which might include workshops, tours, trips around the town and guidance on how to survive your first few weeks in Canada. You may feel overwhelmed -­ don’t be! This is a great way to make friends, and to meet people from all over the world who are in the same situation as you.

Starting classes

Frosh Week (the first week of school), also known as Welcome Week, will give you the opportunity to meet more people and join clubs and associations. If there is an international students’ association, join it! They often offer a number of opportunities for international students to settle in to life in Canada, such as conversation clubs, buddy programs and coffee socials.

The first week of classes may seem daunting, but stick to it! You may find that classes are taught quite differently in Canada in comparison to your home country. For example, it is normal for students to talk without first putting their hand up, and debate and discussion is encouraged. In some classes, participation is compulsory, so you can’t just hide at the back of the room taking notes. This may be quite unnerving if you are used to a more passive system, but after a while it will become more comfortable. Instructors, professors and teaching assistants will be happy to help you if you have any problems in or questions about their classes.

Missing home?

In the first couple of weeks, you may begin to feel homesick. This is normal, and most international students feel this at some time in their university career. There are various ways to combat this, such as:

• Become active in university events. If you start doing lots of new things, and meet new people, you will feel more relaxed and at home in your new surroundings. Join groups, attend events and if possible, join an international student ‘buddy’ program at your university.
• Call home. Talk to, email, or connect via social media to your family and friends back home. While initially this may make you more home-sick, keeping in touch with people from home will help you to feel more relaxed and grounded, and therefore more confident.
• Explore your new area. Walk, bike or bus around the new area you live in. The more you mix with the community, the more likely you are to fit in.
• Get a job. The laws in Canada allow international students to work on or off campus for a maximum amount of twenty hours a week while you are studying. Getting a job is a great way to meet new people and also make some extra money at the same time. Before starting a job, check with Immigration Canada for the permits you’ll need, and whether you need any further information before starting a job.
• Volunteer. Volunteering is a great way to feel part of your community and a good way to make friends while helping other people. There are a range of things that you can do, from helping at an animal shelter, to coaching a children’s soccer team.

So good luck, and remember, this experience will change how you live forever. The education system in Canada is well known throughout the world, and a Canadian education will set you in good standing wherever you travel to next. Follow these steps and use the experience wisely -­ and you will always have a little of Canada wherever you go in the world.

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