100 Level feels like the beginning of freedom. For the first time, you’re away from home, exploring campus life, choosing friends, and trying to balance it all. But here’s the truth: while 100L is exciting, it’s also the stage where most students fall into traps that affect their Grade Point, finances, friendships, and even their admission chances.
Every year, freshers repeat the same mistakes: skipping classes, wasting money, ignoring continuous assessments, or rushing into the wrong friendships. Some students recover quickly, but many struggle for years because of avoidable errors in their first year.
If you’re stepping into university soon, this guide will show you the 10 most common mistakes freshers make in 100 Level and how you can avoid them.
1. Believing University Is Just Like Secondary School
One of the biggest mindset mistakes is treating university like secondary school. In secondary school, teachers reminded you about homework, tracked attendance, or even called your parents if you skipped tests. University is different. Lecturers won’t chase you, whether you show up or not, class goes on.
Why this is dangerous:
- You’ll quickly fall behind on lectures.
- You could miss unannounced tests or key explanations.
- Bad habits form early and may affect your GPA.
Adjust your mindset from day one. Take responsibility for your learning. Attend classes because you need them, not because anyone forces you.
2. Skipping Classes Because “Notes Are Online”
This mistake ruins many freshers. They think they can rely on photocopies, online PDFs, or a friend’s notes. But lecturers often test what they explain in class, not just what’s in textbooks.
Example: Imagine your lecturer says in class, “This will come out in the test”. If you weren’t present, you missed that vital clue.
Why this hurts:
- You’ll lack context that makes studying easier.
- Some lecturers include attendance in assessments.
- You’ll be lost when exams come.
Show up in class. Notes and handouts can back you up, but they should never replace your presence.
3. Spending Too Much Time “Flexing”
University freedom hits hard — no curfews, no parents, lots of invites. For some freshers, it’s endless parties, hostel gist, and outings. But weeks fly fast, and exams arrive before you realize it.
Why it’s risky:
- Poor time balance leaves you unprepared for tests.
- A “party-first” mindset is hard to unlearn.
- Many end up with carryovers because they didn’t plan well.
Enjoy campus life, but balance it with studies. Even 2–3 hours of consistent daily reading makes a huge difference.
4. Picking the Wrong Subject Combination
This mistake starts before 100 Level but shows up later. Some students gain admission but later realize their JAMB subject combination or O’Level grades don’t align with their chosen course. Suddenly, they’re transferred to a different department they don’t like.
Example: Someone who wants to study Law but didn’t pick Literature in JAMB, even a 300+ score won’t save them.
5. Choosing the Wrong Friends Too Quickly
In 100L, everyone wants friends. But rushing into cliques without knowing people well can be risky. The wrong group can lead to lateness, laziness, or even campus trouble.
Why it matters:
- Your circle influences your habits.
- Wrong friends = distractions, bad results, or even cult invitations.
Take your time to study people before trusting them. Stick with those who encourage you to attend class, read, and grow.
6. Ignoring Continuous Assessments (CAs)
Many freshers overlook Continuous Assessments (tests, assignments, practicals) which make up 30–40% of total grades. Some skip them, thinking exams will cover everything.
Why this is costly:
- Even with a high exam score, low CA marks can reduce your grade.
- Sometimes, CAs are the reason students pass or fail a course.
Take every assignment and test seriously. Submit on time and prepare for CAs like you prepare for exams.
7. Poor Money Management
Money mismanagement is one of the most common fresher struggles. Many students spend heavily in the first few weeks on clothes, food, gadgets, or parties — then go broke mid-semester.
Why it’s risky:
- You’ll struggle with feeding or transport.
- You may start borrowing or stressing about cash instead of studying.
Budget your money. Separate funds for feeding, transport, handouts, and fun. Cook more, reduce unnecessary outings, and learn basic saving habits.
8. Avoiding Networking With Seniors and Lecturers
Some freshers isolate themselves, but this cuts them off from valuable guidance. Seniors can share past questions and survival tips. Lecturers notice respectful, engaged students and may offer mentorship.
Why it’s important:
- Networking makes tough courses easier.
- Many opportunities (scholarships, leadership roles, recommendations) come through relationships.
Be approachable and respectful. Ask seniors for past materials, attend tutorials, and engage in class when appropriate.
9. Ignoring Campus Resources
Universities provide resources like libraries, study centres, and e-learning platforms. But many freshers don’t use them. Instead, they rely only on borrowed notes.
Explore your school’s resources early. Learn how to use the library, your student portal, and attend tutorials. These resources exist to make your academic life easier.
10. Forgetting Their Main Purpose
Finally, the biggest mistake freshers make is forgetting why they came to school. Some get carried away by freedom and social life, losing sight of their academic goals.
Keep reminding yourself, you’re here for a degree and a career. Fun will come and go, but your GPA and certificate remain with you.
Final Advice
100 Level is your foundation year. The habits you build now will shape the rest of your university life. Avoid these mistakes:
Don’t skip classes
Manage your time and money wisely
Take continuous assessments seriously
Choose your friends carefully
Stay focused on your purpose
When you start strong in 100 Level, the rest of your journey becomes easier. Don’t let avoidable mistakes define your future.
