These words meant very little to me during high school and my subsequent overseas gap year.

However, after experiencing one year of University at the ANU, they are words I have heard time and time again to the point where they are as much a part of me as that one catchy song you can't get out of your head.

Even though this is the case, they are words that shouldn't strike fear into first year students, as they are all extensions of what is familiar.

University is a more serious, less competitive high school, degrees are what you want to study and courses are the topics you are specifically going to study.

While I know that the previous sentence is similar to condensing Game of Thrones into a paragraph, it illustrates how University is the next, and possibly final, stage of a student's academic journey, and is something that can be easily adjusted to with guidance from the people around you.

University has been an incredible experience so far for me and with the right frame of mind it can work wonders for anyone who is ready to embrace the next part of their life.

So, to get the first years out there started, here are some pointers:

1. Plan everything early. Being proactive in sorting out your timetable, planning trips/events with friends and integrating your hobbies will be very useful in having a smooth first year.

2. Explore what your Uni has to offer.

Ascertaining activities or groups you can get involved in based on what you enjoy is the best way to meet new people and get settled in to Uni quickly.

3. Don't be afraid to take charge of what you study.

If you aren't enjoying something, then change! Uni is great in that you can easily tailor-make what you study so you can enjoy and get the most out of your degree.

4. Have a hobby.

Doing something like going for runs regularly, seeing a movie you've been waiting for, or playing a sport are great ways to take a break from the academic side of Uni and ensure you have a great balance in what you are doing throughout the year.

Finally, and most importantly:

5. NEVER timetable anything on a Friday. Three day weekends are awesome.

In all seriousness, Uni is a great place to thrive in a new community and get the most out of what you study.

For all you first-years, have a blast!

Just like every year before, time has a funny way of working in that the year will go incredibly quickly, so make the most of it!