Polytechnic Survival Guides

"Life in poly is slack and full of freedom!"

I enjoyed Poly life very much and I miss the moments a lot.  However, it is not all roses and ponies.  There are assignments and projects that every students must complete to receive the Diploma Certification.  Not to mention acing the exams & tests for better GPA.

It's the month of May. With new batch of freshmen that joined last month, I decided to write a guide on Polytechnic Life.  

Do not slack off in your first year of polytechnic

This is a common mistake made by freshmen. I've been there. With the impression that polytechnic is a relaxed route, freshmen students tend to be complacent and put in less effort in their academic studies. This is a M A J O R mistake as their GPA in their first year would be poor = trying hard to pull their GPA upwards during Junior & Senior year.

Tip: Start off with a good GPA by putting in more efforts on tests, exams, assignment & projects. If the module is hard, seek help from lecturers.  They are more than willing to help.  It's a win-win situation.

Find TRUE friends who you can really trust and work with

You need friends to trust and rely on in times of need. Having them to pass/share notes when you forget to bring them, teaching you about certain modules when you are clueless, cheering you up and being there for you when you need them.  Most importantly having them as group mates are C R U C I A L.  This way we can work well because we understand each others' weaknesses and strengths.

Tip: Remember to be a good friend and help your friends out when they need it. 

When in doubt, ask your lecturers

Asking G O O D  questions shows your lecturers that you are serious about the module. It’ll also contribute to your class participation marks (take up quite a percentage of your overall grade).   If you’re the shy type of student like me, you could always drop them an email.

Tip: Listen to lectures and pay attention to the details mentioned. Things that teachers spoke from their experience are usually not recorded down in notes given.

Learn to accept life is unfair.  Some are smarter than you

Life is just like a roller coaster, full of ups and downs. There would be times where you do badly for a certain module. You have to learn to find out what went wrong, work on it and M O V E  O N. Do not harp over it and give up.

Tip: Keep pushing hard, consult your lecturers or friends and eventually you will see rainbow after heavy rains.

Find good study areas

It’s always important to find a space in which your group can work. It could be anywhere – the food court (ITAS oh yeah!), library etc.  

Tip: DON’T GET DISTRACTED! Always pay attention when your group mates are talking to you about their ideas, or you might just piss them off! Try not to use Facebook, Instagram & Twitter during group discussion.

Make the best of your life at Polytechnic!

Overall, studying in a polytechnic has its fair share of challenges and fun. Grades are important but learn to work hard and play hard. It's your decision to make that 3 years of your life into a boring or rewarding one.  As for me, I did not regret my decision into going to Temasek Poly. Everyone I met made my 3 years an awesome and fulfilling one. 

And I hope all of you enjoy your Poly life too!

XoXo,

Wilin May