When I started university, I didn’t want to be at UTSC. I didn’t get into St. George for the program I wanted but I wanted to stay in Toronto, and this was the next best option. Was I bitter? A little.

To those of you who are pumped about being at UTSC, congratulations. But for those who are in the same boat I was in three years ago (and I’m sure there’s quite a few), I’m going to try to sell you the campus that I’ve developed a certain amount of affection toward.

The thing is, every university has its pros and cons. We might not have a lot of space, but it’s easier to interact with other students and professors in a smaller setting. And you’ll learn to accept the dingy labs and the fact that you see the same people every day.

One of the advantages of a small campus is that you can pursue opportunities that you may not come across at a larger campus.

For me, that opportunity is The Underground. As a biology student who hopes to graduate on time, I don’t think I would be able to run a student publication at another campus.

In August before starting UTSC, I took a chance and applied for a position at The Underground. I don’t know what gave me the guts to apply for a position that was probably out my league, but good thing I did.

I was hired as associate news editor and took on a new position every year after that, eventually leading to this editorial. Lesson: university is all about taking chances, and if you don’t take any, your life is going to be seriously boring.

I’ve tried just about everything to forget my first year, so remembering is taking me into a very dark place. As you start university, you’re going to be getting advice from every corner. And you won’t listen — guaranteed. Just like I didn’t.

Either way, here are a few lessons that I hope at least one person listens to:

1.    You are not invincible. University academics is a totally different ball game from high school, so don’t expect to coast through as easily.
2.    There is no such thing as “nothing to do.” You can always read ahead! You should be hitting the books right about now.
3.    Don’t rely on the library for study space, and when you find a good study spot guard it with your life. UTSC students are super inconsiderate about study space, so go ahead and tell the person next to you to shut the hell up.
4.    Stock up on sweatpants. You’ll need them for 75 per cent of the year. You’ll probably try to dress nicely for September, but eventually you’ll give up.
5.    This won’t be relevant until first year is over, when your transcript is tarnished and you’re wondering what you did wrong. But I might as well tell you now — it will get better.

Lastly, congratulations on popping your The Underground cherry. We say this every year, but this is your student paper so take advantage of it. If you want to voice your opinion or get involved, we’re always hungry for fresh meat. We don’t bite (well, sometimes).

For now, dig into our UTSC Survival Guide that will help you master this concrete jungle.

Sincerely,
Aly Kassam
Editor-in-chief, The Underground