Saturday, October 17, 2009
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7:15 AM
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University is an integral part of an individual’s life if they wish to pursue tertiary education. It allows for further training of an individual after they have completed their schooling education with good results. I am currently studying at university. Universities have evolved and are improving all the time.
South Africa's universities are leading the way in Africa. The country's 23 public higher education institutions were restructured to offer a range of study and research options for both local and international students. The restructuring focused, and in some cases reconfigured, the programmes on offer at South Africa's universities - which previously still reflected the structure and priorities of the old apartheid-based system. The restructuring also brought in comprehensive universities, a new type of institution designed to cater for the merger of some universities with former "technikons." Comprehensive universities offer a broad range of degrees, diplomas and certificates, and will help widen access to tertiary education in the country.
In order to study at UKZN one must apply through the CAO (Central Applications Office) which is situated in Cator Manor in Durban. Registration is deemed as one of the most stressful and laborious processes in University life. Rule one and two of registration is to not arrive late. There are winding lines, congested rooms and many confusing forms to be considered as part of the registration process. I had to register for two courses for LLB Law and two other complimentary electives. There are many ways to improve registration such as making adequate use of technology and the internet. Also incorporating clearer signage and simple step by step instructions to follow.
In UKZN the year is divided into two semesters which comprise of lecture and tutorials. Lectures take place in lecture rooms with a large amount of students. A lecturer lectures the course and the students participate or write notes. In tutorials we are divided into smaller groups and are tutored by tutors. In our tutorials we are assigned assignments and we partake in a more active lesson than that of the lecture. We as students are not allowed to absent from more than three lecture or tutorials or we shall not receive our duly performed certificate. If we do not receive our duly performed certificate then we do not qualify to write the examination. We write two examinations a year one in the first semester and one in the second.
My expectations of university were broad but one of my challenges was a lifestyle change. The transition from school to university is not a very easy one. University life is very different from school life. You need to have discipline and strong motivation to achieve your goals. In school you could say that we were “spoon fed”, but in university you have to learn to be responsible for your own decisions. Rules from school are very strict, but a bit lenient. If a rule is transgressed of university then there are serious consequences. In school you can have your fun and learn, for it was compulsory, but in university as long as your fees are paid, the lecturers could not care less about your activities. It is therefore your responsibility to be present at your lectures and take down your own set of notes.
Apart from my adjustment on a student level I also had to adjust my social life. I had to join a lift club, because university is a great distance from my home. I also had to make new friends. My friends are excellent people and have a positive influence on my studies. I am a sportsman but never had the chance to partake in any sport, but would love to try out for the volleyball team, as I am an excellent player. There are also various other extra-curricular activities such as various clubs at university which I would not mind joining. University poses many opportunities educationally and in extra-curricular. I would like to use every opportunity to improve my life and become active in playing a positive role in our country.
University is a place that allows our minds to expand and virtually, “The world becomes your oyster!” It is an adjustment for the better and has fulfilled my expectations. If you are well disciplined, humble and confident you can achieve almost anything at university. Always keep your head up and learn from your mistakes. University becomes the stepping stone to your success in life so make the most of it.
Posted by
GRESHEN
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