Picture this: a student begins their university journey filled with excitement, eager to dive into new experiences. But just a few weeks later, they find themselves overwhelmed by the workload and isolated from the university community. Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common. The transition from high school to university can feel like plunging into an ocean of academic and social challenges, leaving many students feeling lost.
But there’s a lifeline that can change everything: early engagement.
Starting Strong in the First Year
Several studies emphasize the importance of a strong start during the first year of university. Students who feel connected to their studies, peers, and the university community early on are far more likely to thrive and ultimately graduate.
Universities worldwide are recognizing this and implementing early engagement tools to foster a sense of belonging. For example:
It’s clear: the sooner students feel like they belong, the better their chances of success.
Challenges of Transition: Leiden University's Perspective
At Leiden University, they recognize that the transition from high school to university is challenging for many students. The sudden increase in responsibilities—such as planning their own study schedules and managing their personal lives—can be overwhelming. For some students, this adjustment is difficult. To address this, Leiden University is committed to opening up discussions on these challenges and providing support where needed. Proactively addressing these issues can make a significant difference in student success.
Beyond the Books: The Power of Connection
While academic support is crucial, feeling connected to the campus community plays an equally vital role in student success. When students build strong relationships with their peers and feel a sense of belonging, their well-being and motivation soar.
Leiden University values early connections between students. Prior to the start of the academic year, they host introduction weeks where students get to know their peers, their program, the university, and the city of Leiden. This early exposure helps students settle in faster and feel at home.
Moreover, the university’s well-being office, in collaboration with external partners, organizes events throughout the year aimed at fostering student connections. These events include nature walks, candle painting sessions, Christmas lunches, and tote bag painting workshops. By offering such opportunities for social engagement, the university helps combat feelings of isolation and nurtures a sense of belonging within the student community.
To further strengthen social connections, Leiden University uses Uni-Life, a platform designed to facilitate social communication and event management for students. Through Uni-Life, students can stay informed about upcoming events, join interest groups, and easily connect with their peers, helping them feel integrated into the community from day one.
Technology: A Virtual Handshake
In today’s world, technology is an essential tool for promoting early engagement. Virtual spaces, where students can connect with classmates, join groups based on shared interests, or interact with professors, help create a sense of community from day one.
This “virtual handshake” reduces the overwhelming nature of starting university by giving students a welcoming space to meet others, exchange ideas, and ask questions. By the time classes start, students already feel like they belong, and that sense of connection makes all the difference.
Mentors and Tutors: Personal Support for New Students
Leiden University also supports new students through a mentor and tutor program. First-year students are paired with a mentor—an older student from the same study program—and a tutor, a faculty member. These mentors and tutors play a critical role in helping students feel at home, navigate the university, and tackle specific challenges or concerns. Having this personal support network ensures students feel guided and supported as they transition into university life.
The Bottom Line: Invest in Engagement, Reap Success
Early engagement isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a proven factor in student success. By investing in tools that create a warm, supportive, and connected environment, universities ensure that students feel at home from the very beginning.
Through the power of community and connection, universities can help their students not just survive the transition, but truly thrive. And that’s what makes the difference between simply attending university and achieving real success.