13 Mistakes Students Should Never Make in Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education: When I look back at school life, I see a lot of things I wish someone had warned me about. I want to share these mistakes with you, not because I am perfect, but because I have seen how they affect people long after graduation. Let’s check them one by one so you don’t fall into the same traps.
1. Isolating yourself from people
I have seen students who separate themselves because of tribe, religion, or personal pride. Don’t do that. Your network matters as much as your certificate. The poor boy today might be the millionaire tomorrow. Friendships and connections are some of the greatest gifts school can give you, and you don’t want to miss them.
2. Limiting yourself to only your department
I have seen engineering students who don’t know anything outside formulas, or education students who never bother about digital skills. The world today needs more than certificates. Let’s stay for example: a graduate who knows only their course may remain jobless, while another with extra skills moves ahead in life. Expand your horizon and learn broadly.
3. Reading just for grades
Yes, grades are important, but I want you to know they won’t carry you beyond school. If all you do is cram for exams without gaining knowledge, you will graduate empty. Read for understanding, read to build yourself, and read to be empowered. That is what lasts.
4. Waiting till final year before doing internship or IT
Many students waste time thinking it’s only in 300 or 400 level that they should learn practical things. But I will tell you this: every long holiday is an opportunity. Learn something new, whether it is in your field or outside of it. Imagine a medical student learning video editing during break—it may look unrelated, but tomorrow it can put food on the table.
5. Allowing lecturers to define you
Some lecturers may frustrate you, insult you, or even grade you unfairly. But I want you to remember this: their opinion is not your destiny. Don’t allow their words to kill your motivation. You are going somewhere greater, and your journey doesn’t end in their classroom.
6. Looking down on grades entirely
Yes, I said don’t chase grades blindly, but that doesn’t mean grades are useless. Do your best to be among the best. If you can get A’s, go for it. But if your very best effort produces a C, take it with pride. Life will still open doors if you have knowledge and skill to back it up.
7. Replacing God with mere religious activity
I have seen people who attend every fellowship program but neglect their personal relationship with God. Don’t confuse activity with spirituality. You need a genuine walk with Him because favour and grace can do what effort alone cannot.
8. Looking down on people around you
That person struggling with third class today may later become the one to open doors for you tomorrow. I have a friend who graduated with a weak 2:2, but today he is more recognized internationally than many of us with higher grades. So I want you to respect people, no matter their situation now.
9. Treating CGPA as the final authority in life
Why should one piece of paper signed by a professor be the stamp of your entire future? Your certificate is only part of your story. Skills, wisdom, and God’s grace will carry you farther than a grade ever will.
10. Expecting special treatment because of good results
I have seen first-class graduates shocked when they discover that the world is full of people smarter and more qualified than them. What matters is not your paper, but what you can actually do. The world rewards problem-solvers, not just degree holders.
11. Departing from God
In good times and bad times, you need Him. I want you to remember this: without God, even your best effort will look empty. Hold on to Him, because He gives direction, wisdom, and opportunities that human strength cannot provide.
12. Giving up too easily
School can be tough—failed courses, financial struggles, family pressure—but never let these things make you quit. Keep reminding yourself: “I will thrive, not die here.” That mindset can push you through the darkest seasons.
ALSO READ:
- 10 Secrets for Freshers to Make Straight A’s in Higher Institution (Plus 2 Bonus Tips)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka – Important Notice on Social Events
- Man Advises Parents: “Don’t Send Daughters to School If You Can’t Afford It”
- Top 10 Universities in Nigeria with the Prettiest Girls in 2025
13. Wasting time on distractions that add no value
Social media, parties, endless gossip—these things may look fun, but they waste precious years. I am not saying don’t have fun, but I want you to balance it. Use your time wisely, because once it goes, you can’t get it back.
At the end of the day, these thirteen mistakes are not just random points; they are lessons collected from real life. Avoid them, and you will not just pass through school—you will let school pass through you and prepare you for life after graduation.
You can join our WhatsApp channel by CLICKING HERE
