First Year at the University

Abstract

THIS book is net ephemeral: it is in the perennial class. It will appeal to many in every generation of students and should be included in every ‘sixth form’ library. It puts first things last, but perhaps that is no disadvantage, for the less important matters dealt with in the earlier chapters are of primary concern to the university student in the ‘professional’ sense and will have for him the most immediate appeal. The fact that the advice given about them is sound and acceptable will give weight to that offered later on more fundamental aspects of life. To each individual reader, especially to those who are older and look back across the years, different portions of the book will appeal according to his experience, his limitations and his tastes. The appeal for “unobtrusive courtesy founded on a sense of mutual obligation” is perhaps the book's most valuable phrase, and might be directed as much, in these distracting days, to the more senior half of university society. The essay on concentration has the same universal appeal, but, to us seniors, with more than a suspicion of regret for opportunities missed. So many things that matter in university administration are not tied to an obvious time limit and are thus in danger of neglect.

First Year at the University

A Freshman's Guide. By Bruce Truscot. Pp. 111. (London: Faber and Faber. Ltd., 1946.) 4s. 6d. net.