Starting university is like opening a brand-new chapter—exciting, nerve-wracking, and full of endless possibilities. New faces, new places, and countless opportunities can feel overwhelming at first. To make the transition smoother, we asked three MUIC seniors to share their hard-won wisdom. From making friends to managing time, their advice might just be the lifeline you need in your first year.
Mr. Adhipat “Besto” Chirachaithumrongsak
Senior Student, Intercultural Studies and Languages
President, MUIC Case Club
- Be the one to break the ice. Start a conversation with classmates or even strangers by giving a compliment—on their style, outfit, or something they’re carrying. You’ll brighten their day and show you’re approachable. Most people are shy, so making the first move can lead to friendships you never expected.
- Don’t limit yourself to one group of friends. Study friends will help you through tough courses, hangout friends make life fun, and interest-based friends fuel your passions. For me, joining the MUIC Case Club connected me with people who shared my drive for business competitions—they became my second family.
- Join different clubs early on. Explore many at first, then commit to the one that excites you most. Each club introduces you to quality people and helps you learn something new about yourself.
- Stay organized. University assignments pile up fast. Use a system that works for you—whether that’s Google Sheets, apps, or a simple planner—to track deadlines, priorities, and tasks.
- Take it all in. Make full use of MUIC’s facilities, services, and events. Follow announcements on social media and notice boards so you never miss opportunities. These four years will fly by—make every moment count.
Ms. Phumwichaya “Asia” Sresunt
Senior Student, Communication Design
Alumna, Volunteer Club
- Dive into activities. From “rub nong” traditions to joining the Volunteer Club, MUIC activities teach teamwork and social skills while helping you discover leadership potential.
- Explore Salaya’s hidden gems. Don’t eat at the same spot every day. Try different canteens across campus—Salaya is full of culinary surprises; they’re just waiting for you to discover them.
- Use your student perks. MUIC students get free printing credits, shuttle vans, and even online counseling. Every major also offers unique benefits—don’t let them go to waste.
- Grades aren’t everything. Aiming for A’s is good, but don’t let the pressure stop you from trying new things. Sometimes a “B” teaches you more about resilience and real-life skills than an “A” ever could. Learn, make mistakes, and grow.
- Embrace AI. Instead of fearing technology, learn to use AI tools effectively—they’re becoming essential in every career path.
Mr. Kittipon “Gack” Vilai
Senior Student, Marketing
Head of Construction Department, Volunteer Club
- Get involved early. Joining clubs in your first year expands your circle of friends across majors. This makes group projects easier and helps you discover what you enjoy. Even if you’re shy or alone, take the leap—you’ll make connections along the way.
- Balance fun and focus. University is full of tempting activities, but academics remain the top priority. Manage your time well, or you’ll face stressful, sleepless nights during finals week.
- Discover campus life. Don’t miss sunsets at the MU lake with live student music, the study-friendly MU Library, or the lively MLC (Mahidol Learning Center) with its affordable food, rehearsal rooms, and table tennis spots.
- Prioritize your health. With so much happening, it’s easy to neglect yourself. Get enough rest, eat well, and stay active—your body fuels your success.
- Build your network. Connect with classmates from the very beginning; they’ll become your study partners and allies. And don’t forget your professors—consultation hours and after-class chats can open doors to mentorships, internships, and future career opportunities.
Wrapping It Up
Starting college may feel like stepping into the unknown, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Besto, Asia, and Gack have walked the path before you, making mistakes, learning lessons, and now passing their wisdom forward. Their message is clear: say yes to opportunities, build strong connections, balance your priorities, and enjoy the journey.
University life isn’t just about grades—it’s about growth, discovery, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, freshmen, take this advice to heart and make your MUIC years not just productive, but truly unforgettable.
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Extracurricular activities like student clubs can really enrich your university life. You have more than 20 clubs to choose from! Check out this list:
https://muic.mahidol.ac.th/eng/student-life/students-activities/club-and-activity-transcript/
Expand your academic exploration by enrolling in a minor program (or two!). MUIC offers several minor programs to widen your knowledge and perspective as you can see here:
https://muic.mahidol.ac.th/eng/minors/
