Starting university is exciting, nerve-wracking, and a little chaotic, especially if you’re stepping into the gates of Uganda’s oldest and most prestigious institution — Makerere University. You’ve probably heard stories about the Ivory Tower, the freedom, the “group work,” and yes, that one dreaded system called ACMIS. But what does it really mean to thrive as a fresher at MUK?

As someone who’s walked the campus paths, stayed up submitting coursework at 11:59 PM, missed club deadlines, and had some "I should’ve known better" moments, here’s a brutally honest, slightly funny, and very real guide to making the most of your university life.

1. No One Cares, So Mind Your Business

This might be the most liberating fact you’ll hear: No one cares about your age, your height, your tribe, your O-Level grades, or how many aggregates you got in PCM. Makerere is a melting pot. Focus on your growth, invest in meaningful relationships, and stay away from unnecessary drama.

2. Max Out Your Coursework

Don’t ignore coursework, even if it feels like a side quest. Most lecturers use coursework to determine who’s serious and sometimes even offer mercy marks. Submit on time, collaborate smartly, and keep a copy of everything. Trust me, coursework is gold.

3. AI Tools Won’t Save You, Basics Will

Yes, GenAI tools are great, and Makerere is slowly catching up with them. But if you don’t understand the basics and concepts behind what you're doing, no tool will truly help you. Learn your logic, data types, problem-solving techniques, and frameworks. They build up over time, and they stay with you long after GPT-4 forgets your last prompt. I usually say that AI is as good as you are! In otherwords, you must be a good prompt engineer or knowing what you need from it….not simply Ctrl-C & Ctrl-V.

4. Ditch Cramwork and Embrace Real Learning

Cramming might have helped you ace UNEB, but it won’t help you here. Makerere wants thinkers, not parrots. Understand, explore, apply. And yeah, PSDT from high school? Time to move on and upgrade your study habits.

5. Mind Your Circle

The people you meet in your first semester — especially your first project group — often stick around for the rest of your course. Surround yourself with supportive, curious, and growth-minded individuals. University friendships last a lifetime, choose wisely.

6. Clubs and Associations? Join Early

One of my biggest regrets was joining IEEE late in Year Two. The earlier you get into student clubs and associations, the more value you gain. They offer soft skills, connections, leadership opportunities, and some really cool trips (plus T-shirts, Swag, and food, of course😂). Join in Semester One. Reach out if incase you need to join some cool tech groups like GDG On Campus

7. Lead Yourself, No One Will Chase You

Your parents aren’t here to push you anymore. This is your time to grow up, take charge, and become your own manager. Your time, your goals, your deadlines. Discipline is now your best friend.

8. Enjoy Both Class and Campus Life

Don’t be so caught up in GPA that you forget to live. Attend events, talk to people, join hackathons, dance at guild campaigns, and cheer at sports matches. It’s part of the full Makerere experience.

9. Seek Out Opportunities — Early

University is a treasure chest of fellowships, scholarships, ambassador roles, tech competitions, and more. You don’t have to be in final year to start applying. I started applying in Year One and it changed everything. Don’t wait.

10. Internship? Start Looking Before the Period

Internships aren’t just meant to fill in your logbook. They’re doorways to the real world. Don’t wait until May to start looking. Ask around, apply widely, and don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals on LinkedIn.

11. Balance is Key

Learn when to focus and when to rest. Study when it's time to study, rest when it’s time to rest, and socialize without guilt. Structure your time so you don’t feel guilty doing either. Atleast this helped me alot especially in my final year when I was so busy……

12. Don’t Fear Lecturers or Admins

Seriously. If you need help, speak up. Visit offices, ask questions, and clarify your issues early. You’re not bothering anyone, you’re just being responsible. This will come in handy, and trust me, you won’t struggle trying to look for recommendations for Fellowships, Scholarships, or other opportunities that you might come across.

13. Yes, You Can Change Your Course

Makerere allows for a change of program within some time constraints and restrictions, depending on the college. If you feel stuck, don’t suffer in silence — explore your options but reach out early since every college might be different.

14. Your Laptop Doesn’t Need to Be a Beast Yet

Unless you're doing CAD or rendering Pixar-level animation, you don’t need a high-end laptop in Year One. A simple, reliable machine will do. You’ll only meet Machine Learning in Year Two anyway.

15. About the Portal… Just Brace Yourself 😂

It’s called ACMIS. It has moods. It will stress you, especially during registration. Keep calm, find a third-year friend to guide you, and yes, you’ll survive it. Here is a grading guide to help you set the pace.

If you ever get a retake..It is not the end of life, just start all over the course unit. My friend Yasin designed a tool that can also assist you in calculating GPA, called MyCGPA.

16. Finally… Start Building Your Brand

Open up a LinkedIn account. Share your campus journey. Post about your projects, achievements, clubs, and thoughts. Build your digital presence. Future recruiters are already watching. Follow me here.

Wrap-Up: You've Got This!

University is more than academics. It’s about self-discovery, building lifelong connections, and exploring your potential. Whether you’re in CEES, COCIS, CEDAT, CHUSS, CAES, COBAMS or COVAB — the truth remains the same: You shape your own Makerere story.

As you walk by the Ivory Tower, remember this — you're walking into a place of legacy, resilience, and possibility. Don’t take it lightly.

Welcome to The Hill. Make it count.

A Freshman’s Guide to Makerere University