Like many incoming students, I showed up at UC Davis with a clear plan: work hard, stay on track and avoid mistakes. This plan lasted about a quarter. I assumed I needed to know exactly what I was doing before I could succeed. Instead, I learned to try new things, build relationships and ask for help. This mattered far more than getting everything right the first time.

Read my four tips on how to shift your mindset as you enter university. 

1. Harness the power to try

Here’s the exciting truth about university: you don’t need to come in and know everything. The fastest path to success as a new university student is to try things you don’t know how to do and build up your skills.

Rather than wait until you feel ready to speak up in class, jump in and give yourself momentum. Apply for new opportunities, share your work or ask questions. Your expertise alone won’t get you to where you want to go. Your ability to try will. 

2. Get a foot in the door

Connections serve as a kind of currency to move resources and assure your contributions get noticed. When you first arrive at university, you start fresh. No one expects you to come with an established network. University isn’t the place to use connections. It’s where you gain them!

When I first joined the Davis Women in Business, the extensive alumni network startled me. It felt like everyone knew someone at a big consulting firm or someone who ran a successful start-up. I quickly realized that existing networks were decades in the making — my participation was what began to build mine. Now I can return the favor and leverage the connections I built with others.

There is also no need to wait for an invitation. Clubs are open to all. Shoot an email or direct message the club to learn how to join. People are genuinely excited to welcome you! 

3. Create the ideal balance

College is far less structured than high school. How you spend your time is entirely up to you. When I first joined UC Davis, I expected my coursework to keep me busy so I hesitated to get involved outside the classroom. 

However, I discovered that when I took the time to play tennis, go to a club meeting or make plans with friends that my academic performance actually improved! Weekly exercise and activity boosted my attitude and memory, which made homework an easier task. 

Ask yourself: what type of schedule keeps you up to date on assignments? What motivates you? What activities make you happy?

Experiment with different clubs, activities and organization techniques. Build a routine that focuses on quality sleep, healthy meals and time to soak up the sun. You’ll notice how much better you perform in class when you take care of yourself.

4. Use your resources

I came to UC Davis as a political science major and switched to managerial economics my first year. Very few people know what they want to do with their lives the moment they step onto a college campus. That’s completely normal. The exciting part is when you discover the many resources available to help you figure it out.

Talk to professors to get a clear idea of what interests you. Office hours are rarely packed and professors want to talk with you. Just show up! Professors welcome open conversation, whether you want to review class material, work through homework problems or chat about life and careers.

Study groups also offer a fantastic way to make friends, especially in challenging classes. Learning alongside peers makes the journey more enjoyable and effective.

University is your chance to grow and explore. Best of luck on your journey and make it count!