Thriving in Your Tertiary Years

As you continue your tertiary education in Lesotho, you’ve already navigated the initial excitement and challenges of college life. Now is the time to build on your experiences, refine your skills, and take full advantage of the opportunities available to you. Whether you’re still staying on campus or commuting, these years are crucial for setting the foundation for your future career and personal growth.

By now, you likely have a handle on the basics of budgeting and managing day-to-day expenses. However, as you advance in your studies, your financial responsibilities and goals may change. It’s important to regularly review and adjust your budget to account for new expenses, such as lab fees or project related costs. Utilize advanced budgeting tools to categorize expenses, set financial goals, and forecast your finances. Planning for major expenses like saving for graduation or job search expenses, help you stay financially prepared.

Build an emergency fund, aim to save three to six months’ worth of living expenses for unexpected situations. Starting early with low-risk investments like savings accounts or fixed deposits can significantly grow your savings through compound interest. Maximizing income opportunities through part-time jobs, on-campus roles, or freelance work can provide additional financial stability.

Beyond financial management, enriching your college experience is important. Joining professional societies from as early as second year and taking on leadership roles will develop your managerial and teamwork skills. Attending workshops and seminars offered by career services are likely to improve your resume writing, interview skills, and career planning. Networking at industry events keeps you updated on trends and help you make valuable connections.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. Effective time management, regular exercise, healthy eating, and taking breaks helps in managing academic, work, and leisure activities. Exploring new interests and engaging in hobbies provides relaxation and a well-rounded college experience.

“I once discovered a passion for knitting wool jerseys, a hobby I never expected to enjoy. This hobby helped me earn extra income, which I needed to finance my evening business studies course after matriculating. Back then, things were not as difficult as they are now, and selling was easier because not many people were offering the same products, allowing us to easily stand out.” Discover a talent you can use to increase your income while studying. You may find joy in it and be motivated to work harder to earn your qualification.

By refining your financial skills and actively engaging in opportunities for personal and professional development, you can make the most of your tertiary education in Lesotho. Embrace this time to grow, learn, and prepare for a successful future.