This article aims to serve as a primer for first-year science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students as they navigate the challenge of the transition from high school to university life. The article explores the challenges students can expect to face and the toll they may take on their mental health. The authors attempt to outline these challenges, dissect them, and then offer advice and insights on conquering them while getting the most out of the university experience. This article is based on the experiences and observations of the authors.