Many Kookmin University students, I suspect, have made resolutions to do certain things in 2013. Some vowed to study harder, eat healthier, lose weight or save money. Others pledged to start new jobs, have better job specifications or gain work experiences. The incoming freshmen face the new reality of university. This article is for you, the freshmen, to help you jump-start your university career.

The last winter holidays before the start of the new school year is a great time to reflect and begin implementing your new-campus resolution plan. Moreover, the end of the year is always a great time to reflect on what has worked and what hasn’t worked, and to think about what to do differently in the coming year. Here are some guides and advices to help you plan your new campus life at Kookmin University that you can add on to your new year’s resolution plan for 2013.

Most freshmen start their university career with ideas that university is a kingdom of new found freedom. Freedom is provided in universities, but you must remember to work. The university is very different from high school. Completing assignments and projects on time is required in university. Just like in the real world, you have to help yourself. Make sure you concentrate during class hours, because most professors will give subtle hints during classes about what they will test in the exams, so keep on writing good class notes. Also, don’t try to cram during exam preparation time. It will only cause disasters.

Help is available in university, but you have to search for yourself. Students frequently fail to use the most important form of assistance - the professor’s office hours. It’s the most valuable chance to interact with your professors individually. Most professors will welcome you and your questions as they are experts in their subjects. Lastly, make use of all the services that Kookmin University offers. The Student Support Team helps students with time management, study skills, language skills and even socializing skills. The Career Development Center that College of Business Administration offers is open to all Kookmin University students. You can visit during your free time to ask for advices and develop your student career.

Here’s to all first-year freshmen. Enjoy your first year at Kookmin University. It won’t necessarily be easy, but it can be a lot of fun. Use your youth efficiently. Using your time efficiently is highly required during your university career. The time would be a step forward to your dreams. Good luck to your four years at Kookmin University and get ready for your first real-world job!