Tips to Succeed in any Tertiary Institution: 8 Secrets I Wish I Knew Before Starting Tertiary Education
Francis Mbroh 
The university is an exciting place brimming with opportunities (and I don’t say this lightly) —academically, socially, and even professionally. However, like any significant life experience, without the right mindset and preparation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, lose focus, and waste both your potential and your time. Often, students are so caught up in the superficial aspects, like taking their “first day in class” pictures or meeting the so-called university legends, that they miss the deeper value of the environment they’ve entered.
I spent two of my four years at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) drifting aimlessly because I lacked a mentor to guide me. I learned the hard way that university is more than just lectures and exams—it’s a world where you can forge connections, develop life skills, and truly transform yourself. I’m sharing these 8 Secrets I Wish I Knew to help you avoid the mistakes I made and make the most of your time. These lessons are based not only on my experience but also on principles of balancing emotion and logic.
The 8 Secrets I Wish I Knew Before Starting Tertiary Education
1. Engage in School Activities and Aspire for Positions
For the first two years of my university journey, I was a ghost—spending most of my time in the library or at the computer lab learning and scrolling through social media, isolating myself from the larger campus community. My calendar was empty, and my routine monotonous. It wasn’t until I pushed myself to attend school activities that I realized the rich potential I had ignored. Getting involved in academic and extracurricular activities introduced me to invaluable people and experiences. Leadership roles and participation in events can shape your personal and professional life in ways you can’t imagine until you’re involved. Don’t wait to get involved. Seek out clubs, organizations, and events that align with your interests and career goals.
2. Drive Attention to Yourself
This is the ripple effect of engagement. Good attention is a currency that can open doors. The university is a place where people with talents and abilities should stand out. Let people know what you’re good at. Whether it’s academic excellence, sports, or creative arts—make your presence known. The world values those who can showcase their skills confidently, so step out of your comfort zone and let your talents shine. In today’s world, having a personal brand is an asset you want in your portfolio. Develop a unique skill or project that showcases your abilities and sets you apart from your peers.
3. Learn Every Day
It sounds simple, but it’s a fundamental truth. I always tell friends that it’s easier to achieve first class than most people think. I can say this because I did it. The key? Consistent learning. This secret is no secret at all. This habit is the foundation of every great scholar’s achievement. No one is born knowing everything. Whether it’s revisiting lecture notes or diving deeper into topics that interest you, make it a point to learn something new every day.
4. Have Influential Friends
Surround yourself with people in positions of influence—lecturers, student leaders, or mentors. As the saying goes, “your network is your net worth.” Having the right connections can open up mentorship, internship, and even job opportunities. University is not just about what you know but also about who you know. These connections can provide valuable advice, opportunities, and support throughout your university journey and beyond.
5. Attend Seminars and Conferences
Seminars and conferences offer unique opportunities to expand your knowledge, gain industry insights, and network with professionals and peers. These events can broaden your perspective and inspire new ideas for your academic and professional pursuits. Inspiration from speakers and professionals can fuel your passion and curiosity.
6. Build a Professional Portfolio Early
Start thinking about your future career from day one. Whether it’s internships, volunteer work, or personal projects, everything you do outside the classroom can become part of your professional portfolio. Don’t wait until your final year to build experience. These small steps will give you an edge when it’s time to job-hunt. A solid portfolio increases your employability and sets you apart from other graduates.
7. Understand that Failure is Part of the Process
Not everything will go as planned during your university journey. Embrace failures and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning rather than letting them discourage you. Failure isn’t the end—it’s part of the journey. I wish someone had told me that it’s okay to fail as long as you learn from it. It’s how you bounce back that matters.
8. Enjoy the Journey
While achieving academic success is important, don’t forget to enjoy the experience. University life is a time to make memories, meet people, and explore who you are. Balance your academics with fun and personal development, because these years will shape your future in more ways than you realize. A balanced life fosters personal growth and better decision-making, leading to a more successful future.
By keeping these ten insights in mind, you’ll be better equipped to make the most of your university experience. Remember, your time at university is not just about earning a degree—it’s about personal growth, skill development, and preparing for your future career. Embrace the opportunities, challenges, and experiences that come your way, and you’ll graduate not just with a degree or diploma, but with a wealth of knowledge, skills, and connections to propel you towards success.
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