In my first critical skills essay, I will write a reflective essay on my strengths as a student, the challenges I will face here at Maynooth University and the experiences I foresee to enjoy the I experience the most during my three years of study at this university. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay I will begin by reflecting on what I believe is my strongest skill as a student; my teamwork skills. In recent years my school career has been more oriented towards learning in pairs and groups in the last years of my secondary school experience. Personally, I felt this dynamic worked better for me than constant one-on-one learning. I found it particularly useful in my geography lessons, when I sometimes struggled to contain large amounts of information. It was easier and much more fun to bounce ideas off of my colleagues. I learned different facts from different people and associated the fact with the person in the group. This helped me when I was trying to remember information for studying or exams. This has allowed me to gain better listening skills, time management skills and organizational skills. These group activities have benefited me not only in my academic life, but also in my working life. In the workplace, I project a careful and organized person. I firmly believe that my past experience has given me strong team working skills which will benefit me here in Maynooth and in the future. With strengths, also come weaknesses and challenges. After my decision to study here in Maynooth, I will encounter many challenges along the way: moving away from home, making new friends, finding my way around campus, among other things. What I worry about most is independent learning. Looking back at my final years at school, there is a clear difference between secondary school and third level learning. Teachers tended to keep me on the sidelines regarding learning and studying, while lecturers and professors left it to my discretion and willingness to learn. As Duffy (2015) stated, as students we have full control and responsibility for our learning and they (professors, lecturers) cannot do the work for us. I firmly believe in this statement, but I find the transition from secondary school to third level education daunting as you are mostly expected to learn independently. In time I will overcome this challenge and hope to overcome it. Finally, I reflect on what I'm looking forward to doing during my time at Maynooth University. Personally, it is the opportunity to join various clubs and organizations. Unfortunately, in secondary school it is not possible to join school societies, so this is an exciting opportunity for me to broaden my horizons and find my niche. I hope to make new friends with common interests and, above all, to make my university experience as fun as possible. I will gain skills such as listening and leadership which will benefit my studies and learning here in Maynooth, but after my studies I am looking for a job. As Krisitine Duffy (2015) argues, numerous surveys have been conducted to state that employers are looking for graduates with “soft skills” such as public speaking and leadership, all skills that can be developed through campus clubs and societies. Please note: This is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a custom essay As I wrap up mine.