By Aulah Najjuuka
It is the Trinity semester at Uganda Christian University (UCU), different from the ones before, coming right at the peak of the year. It is the perfect moment to check in on the goals we set at the beginning of the year.
But let’s be real: this timing can be tough. Everyone is feeling the pressure, and it can get exhausting; for the new students, it can feel overwhelming. Walking around the halls, it seems like the older students have it all figured out, starting the semester at their own pace. It might give off the impression that university life is a breeze, but that is not always the case.
I’ve noticed something interesting. While some of the newcomers might start strong and then fizzle out after a couple of weeks, the older students are playing the long game. Sure, they might not show up to every class in the beginning, but when they do, they show up big time.
One thing I’ve learned is that we can’t afford to slack off. Every class counts, and every assignment matters. Our future depends on it. Whether we end up with a first-class degree or just scraping by, it makes a difference—in further studies, job interviews, you name it.
I’ve also realized that it’s all up to me. I came here alone, and my success is my responsibility. That means staying on top of things, fixing any mistakes early on, and knowing where to go for help.
So, as I navigate through this Trinity semester, I keep a few things in mind. Firstly, never skip class just because someone else does. Secondly, do assignments ASAP; you never know what’s coming. And lastly, to be conscious of ‘where I am and what I am doing.’ I chose this university for a reason, and I am going to make the most of it.
With these thoughts in mind, I am ready to kick failure to the curb and make the most of this semester and beyond. After all, I’m here to reflect the excellence of my university, and that’s exactly what I plan to do.