Starting your first semester at NAIT is exciting, overwhelming and a little chaotic. Now that I’ve survived (and even started to thrive), here are four things I wish someone had told me when I first started.
- Get Comfortable Asking for Help
I thought asking for help made me look clueless and unprepared, but the truth is, everyone’s figuring it out. Whether you’re asking a classmate for notes or emailing an instructor about an assignment, asking for help is a smart move, not a weak one.
NAIT has many support resources, such as peer tutoring, mental health services and academic advisors. Use them early, not just when you’re in panic mode.
- Take Breaks – Burnout is Real
It’s tempting to grind 24/7, but you are not a robot. Go for a walk, grab a snack, or chill in the NAITrium with some friends.
Burnout doesn’t happen all at once – It creeps up slowly. Keeping a balanced schedule early will help you survive the semester and enjoy it.
- There’s Free Stuff – If You Know Where to Look
NAITSA loves handing out free food, coffee and swag around campus. Follow their social media and keep an eye out in the halls for them!
Also, there are student discounts all around Edmonton. Your NAIT One Card can get you cheaper gym memberships, transit deals and discounts at restaurants – don’t sleep on the broke college student magic.
- It’s Okay to Feel Lost at First
Everyone acts like they have it together, but trust me, most of us don’t. It’s okay and normal to feel overwhelmed and maybe even a little unsure about your program.
The key is to stick with it. Talk with classmates, go to campus events, ask questions and take breaks when you need to. Before you know it, you’ll be the one giving advice to the new student in the hallway.
Your first semester at NAIT is a wild ride, but it’s also a time for opportunities, growth and moments that’ll surprise you. You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to keep showing up, asking for help and giving yourself a little grace along the way.