Wananchi Opinion: Your campus years set the tone for life beyond school

A balanced and fulfilling campus life in Kenya demands more than simply passing exams.

It requires a deliberate effort to resist the temptations that surround many students and to build habits that support personal growth.

Campus offers freedom, but this freedom can easily turn destructive when it is not handled with maturity.

Many students find themselves drawn to constant partying, drug use, skipping classes and unhealthy relationships.

These habits may look exciting at first, but they slowly weaken a person’s focus, character and future opportunities.

Any young person in a university or tertiary college must make a conscious choice about the kind of life they want to live during these important years.

The first pillar of a successful campus life is clarity of purpose. A student who understands why they are in school is less likely to be swayed by every distraction.

You joined college to build a future, to gain knowledge, and to prepare yourself to support your family and society.

When you keep this purpose in mind, it becomes easier to say no to invitations that add no value to your life.

Purpose sharpens your mind and strengthens your discipline. Without this inner compass, you will be pulled in many directions by friends, peer pressure and the desire to fit in.

Another important element is time management. Many students waste long hours attending parties or aimlessly relaxing in hostels, then rush to complete assignments at the last minute. This leads to stress, poor grades and a feeling of confusion.

By planning your days well, you can create time for study, rest, friendships and personal development.

A timetable that you actually follow can protect you from falling into the trap of skipping lectures because you overslept after a night out.

Simple habits like attending classes on time, completing assignments early and reviewing notes daily build a strong academic foundation.

Choosing friends wisely is also a major factor in shaping your campus experience. Your closest friends influence your habits, thinking and decisions.

If you surround yourself with people who love partying, drinking or experimenting with drugs, it becomes harder to stay on the right path.

Seek friends who are focused, respectful and ambitious. These are the people who challenge you to be better, encourage you to work hard and help you stay grounded.

A strong support system keeps you accountable and reminds you of your goals when life becomes overwhelming.

Campus life should also include building your character. This involves self-control, personal responsibility and respect for your body and mind.

Behaviours such as uncontrolled partying, drug use and irresponsible relationships harm your emotional and physical wellbeing.

They also expose you to health risks, unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections and emotional breakdowns.

Developing self-respect helps you avoid such dangers. It also makes you more confident and improves your self-esteem.

Choosing your relationships carefully and setting boundaries protects both your dignity and your future.

Financial discipline is another area many students struggle with.

Some misuse their pocket money on parties, flashy clothes and unnecessary luxuries then ends up borrowing or engaging in risky activities to survive.

Learning to budget your money, limiting wasteful spending and focusing on your basic needs will help you live comfortably and peacefully.

Financial discipline teaches you responsibility and prepares you for life after campus where money management becomes even more important.

A fulfilling campus life also includes engaging in positive activities. Join clubs, volunteer groups, sports teams or creative societies.

These experiences help you build new skills, expand your network and discover talents you did not know you had.

They also provide healthy entertainment and keep you occupied with activities that contribute to your personal growth.

Finally, spiritual and mental wellbeing matter. Many students struggle silently with stress, pressure and loneliness.

Seeking guidance from mentors, counsellors, religious leaders or trusted friends can help you stay emotionally stable.

Taking care of your mental health allows you to think clearly and stay focused on your goals.

Campus is a short but defining period.

The decisions you make now will echo throughout your life.

Choose a path that protects your future, strengthens your character and honours the dreams you carry for yourself and your family.