Like thousands of other seniors this year, Ade is super excited - and relieved - to get her diploma and finally finish high school. But then she stops, her little victory dance over: now she’s wondering what’s next when it comes to starting her university experience.

Ade is worried about the cost. And choosing the right school and course of study. And making new friends. and how to balance her time and all of the responsibilities of being an adult. And, and, and… help! She knows that this is a last step before entering “the real world” and she wants to set herself up for the rest of her life.

Are you in the same situation? Although going to university involves a lot of life-changing decisions, if you keep a level head, ask for help when you need it and believe in the dreams you have for your life, you’ll be at the head of the class!

Decisions, decisions
The first important decision is choosing a university. Like your significant other or your favorite karaoke song, don’t settle for just anything. Think about the topic you want to study and how good the school is at teaching it. What about the location, cost of tuition and living expenses? Visit the school and talk to people who went there, and make sure that this is the right university for you.

And guess what? You don’t have to be 100 percent sure of what you will study and what you want your career to be right now. You’re still super young. But give it some serious thought, because every time you change your major not all of the work and money you have put into the old course will transfer over. Think seriously about who you are and what you want for your life.

Finding a little help
Our friend Oka is our role model when it comes to being prepared for university. She started her research when she was in grade 11. She brought her mom to education fairs, ask her older relatives about college related things. and also learned about university scholarship programs and opportunities (super important, gotta get that money!).

Ok, so Oka is super responsible and that’s kind of annoying us. But still, she’s our hero!

Remember that wise old saying: good things come to those who hustle. The scholarship money that Oka earned helped take the financial stress off her family and herself.

Be prepared
Although you might find your dream school, you might not be accepted or it might be outside of your price range. It’s always a good idea to keep a solid backup in your back pocket. Although it might not be your first choice now, life has a way of working itself out, so don’t take it too hard. Take your time with this big decision... and good luck, ladies!