In high school, you may have had your work laid out by teachers, with easy-to-follow instructions and homework check-ins to make sure you stayed on track. In university, you’ll learn to build your own schedule, as homework and problem sets aren’t always mandatory, and your plan must be feasible while still allowing you to achieve your goals. After the first few months of EngSci, you might notice your learning strategies changing due to the heavier workload and different environment. There are various initiatives that can help you develop your academic skills including task management, critical thinking, problem-solving, and coping with stress and anxiety.
Get to know these resources available to you and don’t be afraid to ask for help. For example, you can ask your professors what you’re expected to know, ask upper years for advice, or check out some of the programs listed below. Positive learning strategies will help you throughout university and beyond!
Available Resources
U of T’s Engineering Learning Strategist will meet with you individually to create a personalized learning plan that works for you.
Find a list of programming run by the Learning Strategist here.
There are four modules on time management skills by the Engineering Learning Strategist. You don’t have to wait until fall, you can try these right now and learn about organization and planning, scheduling, and self-reflection.
engSuccess is a mentorship program that starts in September where you meet upper-year engineering students with diverse backgrounds. Book appointments with them to help enhance your time management, work-life balance, healthy habits, and more.
Guided Engineering Academic Review Sessions (GEARS) mentors are upper year EngSci students who can help you build academic and time management skills based on their own experiences, in addition to helping you with course content.