How UI Freshers Navigate Life Beyond the Classroom
By: Robiat Oladele
Stepping into the University of Ibadan is a dream come true for many freshers.The transition from secondary school to university life brings its own set of challenges. Freshers often find themselves juggling rigorous academic schedules with the allure of social activities, religious commitments, and extracurricular activities. How freshers manage the academic and social stress is inherent in university life through the various avenues they explore to achieve a balanced and fulfilling experience on campus.
Academic Pressures and Coping Mechanisms
The academic environment in UI is known for its intensity. Freshers are introduced to a curriculum that demands critical thinking, extensive reading, and consistent performance. The pressure to excel can be overwhelming, leading to stress and anxiety. To cope, many students adopt time management strategies, form study groups, and seek mentorship from senior students. Some also get counseling service from their senior students in various halls, faculties, departments and religious groups to navigate academic challenges and maintain mental well being.
Olukayode Akinola, a 100-level Chemistry student, shares his approach: “I’ve always made my academics my top priority,” he says confidently. Despite the challenges, he emphasises the importance of prioritizing academics. Balancing his spiritual life, Akinola integrates his religious practices into his daily routine. “My religion is also something of great importance to me… I try to input it into my daily activities, not by going to church every day though,” he explained.
Engagement in Sports and Physical Activities
Physical activity serves as a vital outlet for stress relief. UI boasts a range of sports facilities, including a football pitch, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a gymnasium. Freshers are encouraged to participate in sports such as athletics, football and the likes. Engaging in these activities not only promotes physical health, but also fosters teamwork and discipline. Regular participation in sports provides a necessary break from academic rigours and contributes to a holistic university experience.
Akinola mentioned, “I play sports like football and volleyball weekly… for recreational purposes.” This routine helps him unwind and maintain physical health amidst academic demands.
Religious Involvement and Spiritual Support
For many students, religious activities offer solace and a sense of community. UI accommodates various religious groups, including Christian fellowships and Muslim students associations. These organisations conduct regular meetings, prayer sessions, and spiritual retreats. Involvement in religious activities helps freshers find balance, moral guidance, and emotional support, which are crucial for navigating the complexities of university life. For Akinola, he integrates his faith into his daily life without necessarily going to church everyday.
Participation in Student Organisations and Clubs
Beyond academics and religion, freshers find avenues for personal growth through student organisations and clubs. UI has a lot of societies ranging from literary and debating clubs to cultural and professional associations. Participation in these groups allows students to develop leadership skills, network with like-minded people, and explore interests beyond their academic disciplines. Such involvement enriches the university experience and equips students with skills valuable for future endeavors.
However, Akinola is cautious not to overextend himself: “I have only joined one student organization because I’m also the course rep of my department, so I’m trying not to overwork myself… at least till I can balance the ones on my hands perfectly,” he stated.
Social Events and Recreational Activities
Social events also influenced a lot of UI freshers. Faculty weeks, hall weeks, and cultural nights provide platforms for relaxation and cultural expression. These events offer a respite from academic pressures and an opportunity to build lasting friendships. Engaging in social activities contributes to a well-rounded university life that creeatewt a sense of belonging and community among students.
However, Akinola mentions that parties are not currently on his agenda: “Parties are not on my checklist for now; I haven’t attended any,” he said, simply.
Time Management: A Crucial Skill
Adeola, a 100-level student of the Department of Psychology, emphasises the importance of time management: “University life can be stressful, but it also grants a lot of freedom. With so many opportunities, academics, religious involvement, sports, parties, and student organizations,it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why managing time effectively is important,” she explained.
She suggests setting clear goals and assigning deadlines to avoid procrastination: “Have a daily to-do list. Plan your day and give specific time slots to each task so you can stay productive.” Adeola also advises learning to say no: “Don’t say yes to every commitment. Let others help too. If you overwork yourself, it could become a burden.”
Addressing the social side of campus life, she noted, “Partying isn’t bad, but you don’t have to attend every one. Sometimes, that time is better spent preparing for a test or reading at night.”
Navigating the academic and social landscape of the University of Ibadan is a multifaceted endeavor for freshers. By actively engaging in sports, religious activities, student organisations, and social events, students find balance and build resilience. These experiences not only alleviate stress but also contribute to personal development and a fulfilling university journey. As freshers continue to adapt and grow, their proactive approach to managing stress sets the foundation for success both within and beyond the university walls.
image credit: Freepik
