k|ltlaDa
Nature reflects our nature
Healthy Transitions
“You are part of one of the best institutions of the country. Now be prepared for hundreds of tests in
coming days”
That was my first day in Kathmandu University (KU) in August 2005 when our then School of Science
Dean, Dr. Pushpa Raj Acharya informed us about the examination system in KU during the orientation
class. After hearing this statement, I became doubtful about surviving the undergraduate years in KU.
The undergraduate years, especially the first year was indeed demanding and stressful. Being a stu-
dent of environmental science, I was unable to understand the logic behind taking completely different
classes such as engineering drawing and computer programming which I perceived were irrelevant in
the environmental sector. Yet, as I look back, I have realized that those classes helped us gain basic
knowledge in different fields and encouraged us to increase our engagement in interdisciplinary areas.
Enduring the first year in KU could be challenging for many students. Transitioning from easy-going
high school atmosphere to hectic college environment may not be a piece of cakewalk. Additionally,
the sense of individual identity and new found freedom in college might confuse young adults. No
matter how difficult everything appears, most students gradually adapt to the university environment
and learn to deal with difficult situations.
Studying in KU is not only about exams and grades. It is the place where you learn social skills, make
memories, meet and work with diverse individuals, understand your life goals and more importantly
recognize your own values and potentials. Most of us were so concerned about getting higher grades
that we failed to experience and participate in constructive fun-filled activities of the university. That
I see as a missed opportunity of life. Working hard and achieving good grades is definitely the main
objective of studying in university but students need not worry about scoring higher grades all the time.
After working professionally for years, I have learned that grades alone do not define the value of an
individual. What matters are your skills, your passions towards your work, goodwill and openness and
the way you deal with others.
Graduation is undoubtedly the biggest achievement in the students’ life. However, real life starts af-
ter you graduate from university. Some of you might start job hunting and some will apply for higher
studies. Your time in the college and experiences with friends appear like a distant memories. This
is also the phase where you will experience the next transition of your life leading to certain anxiety
and feeling of uncertainty. Do not be disheartened if things do not move according to your plan and
be prepared for failure as well. We have all been through it, survived it, acknowledged the reality and
moved forward to achieve our mission.
Here are some of the tips that may be useful in your transition into more focused individual:
• Recognize your passion and interest and invest time to research on your interest.
• Never compare your situation and growth with your friends and colleagues as we all have our own
individual journey.
• Participate in club activities, conference, seminars, sports and cultural programs where you get the
opportunity to network with different people and learn from them.
• Improve your reading, writing and public speaking skills as such skills hold significance in every field.
• Regularly contribute your article to national dailies and magazines based on your learning and ideas.
If it gets published, it motivates you to write more on various issues, sharpen your knowledge and
analytical abilities and even helps you get noticed by the readers.
• Learn to ask questions, express yourself and take part in dialogue/debate without the fear of being
Nature and Social Concern Society
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