10 Things Every First-Year at NWU Should Do in Their First 30 Days

Starting your first year is exciting, overwhelming, inspiring… and just a little bit chaotic (in the best way). Whether you’re still figuring out where your lecture venues are or already calling campus “home,” your first 30 days at North-West University will shape your entire university experience. If you’re adjusting to university life and wondering where to start, this NWU first-year guide is your checklist for success.

Let’s get into it 👇

 

 ✅ 1. Attend (and Actually Engage in) Orientation Activities

University orientation in South Africa isn’t just about admin and welcome speeches. It’s your first opportunity to:

  • Meet classmates
  • Connect with lecturers
  • Discover support services
  • Understand faculty expectations

Pro tip: Don’t just attend, introduce yourself to at least three new people.😉

 

✅ 2. Register and Explore the LMS Properly (eFundi)

Your Learning Management System, eFundi, is where assignments, announcements, and study materials live.

In your first week:

  • Log in and explore each module
  • Download study guides
  • Note assessment dates
  • Turn on notifications

Many students fall behind simply because they don’t check the LMS regularly. Don’t let that be you.

 

✅ 3. Visit Student Counselling and Development

University is a major life transition. The Student Counselling and Development services at NWU offer:

  • Academic support
  • Mental wellness resources
  • Study skills workshops
  • Stress management tools

Successful students don’t wait for burnout. They build support systems early.

 

✅ 4. Join at Least One Society or Student Structure

NWU student life is more than lectures. Joining a society helps you:

  • Build friendships
  • Develop leadership skills
  • Improve communication
  • Strengthen your CV

Whether it’s academic, cultural, entrepreneurial, or sports-related,  find your community.

 

✅ 5. Attend a Faculty Networking Event

Faculty events help you:

  • Understand industry expectations
  • Meet guest speakers
  • Connect with alumni
  • Start thinking about career paths early

The sooner you understand where your qualification can take you, the more intentional your journey becomes.

 

✅ 6. Explore Your Campus (Properly!)

North-West University campus life differs across its three campuses, and each has hidden gems worth discovering:

  • North-West University Mahikeng Campus
  • North-West University Potchefstroom Campus
  • North-West University Vanderbijlpark Campus

Take time to:

  • Find the best study spots
  • Locate computer labs
  • Visit the Student Centre
  • Identify quiet zones and social spaces

Knowing your environment builds confidence.

 

✅ 7. Create a Simple Study Routine

Adjusting to university means adapting to independence.

No one checks if you studied. No one reminds you about deadlines.

Start small:

  • Block study hours in your calendar
  • Review notes weekly
  • Break big assignments into smaller tasks

Consistency beats last-minute panic.

 

✅ 8. Introduce Yourself to Your Lecturers

This one feels intimidating, but it changes everything.

Send a short email or greet them after class:
“Hi, I’m a first-year student in your module. I’m looking forward to the semester.”

It builds familiarity and makes it easier to ask for help later.

 

✅ 9. Start Building Your Career Profile (Yes, Now 👀)

Your degree alone isn’t enough anymore.

In your first 30 days:

  • Create or optimise your LinkedIn profile
  • Add your qualification and university
  • Connect with classmates
  • Follow NWU and industry pages

Early career readiness is a competitive advantage. By the third year, you’ll thank yourself.

 

✅ 10. Find Your People

This might be the most important one.

University can feel lonely in the beginning, especially if you moved away from home.

Sit next to someone new. Join study groups. Attend campus events.

The friendships you build in your first month often become your support system for the next three to four years.

 

Your First 30 Days Matter

Your first month at NWU sets the tone for your academic success, personal growth, and overall student experience. You don’t need to have everything figured out. You just need to start intentionally. Welcome to your new chapter. Welcome to NWU student life.

 

📌 Save this guide and tag your first-year bestie.

Because success is better when you don’t do it alone.