Surviving the first week in university, nostalgic and complex

With mixed feelings of inquisition and apprehension, I rode through a busy first week at university. It was a strange feeling returning to school after a gap for more than a decade. Still capable of staying awake and attentive most of the time during the three hourly seminars, keeping pace with the taking down lecture notes, and more importantly, learning something useful.

The international diversity of university student composition. Even for someone who is raised in a multicultural background, this is an exciting and interesting exchange with peoples from all parts of the world with different education and work experience as this is a second, third or fourth degree for many.

What struck me most were comments by some fellow students that they would only read the bare minimum of recommended readings. They are modest in their ambitions and only aim for a pass. The other grades are credit, distinction and higher distinction. Even for those pursuing technical and science or pseudo / social sciences at undergraduate level, it would not be sufficient to rely on one major textbook. Though in most cases, it is a matter of application once you have grasped the main concepts, every student is encourage to read widely if time and ability permit.

Of course there were others who were more reticent and studious. As the saying goes, "still water runs deep". Some are very focussed in doing their best and make full use of their time there.

This is actually a busy year with other family and personal commitments to fulfil. Some would think I am crazy to add more work and stress to existing heavy responsibilities . But there is never a best time to do what you wish, only how skilful one is to balance and manage your priorities and achieve your goals. Time and tide waits for no man. Upon reflection, we often lament over the many missed opportunities. Sometimes having a more positive attitude would help to energize and motivate oneself to do wonders. I do hope to survive not just weeks but the years ahead.