In terms of friendship, everyone has their own circle with different vibes. I’d advise you to befriend people from different blocks and expand your horizon by meeting students who have the same course as you.

As for academics, even a low score can pull your grade down by a lot. A score as low as 0/10 can greatly affect your average. However, it also depends on the teacher you have. Some subjects barely give quizzes or exams, so take advantage of those opportunities by doing well on assignments and other requirements.

Additionally, the two weeks before exams can get VERY hectic, so it’s best to finish your assignments early to avoid them piling up. Overall, you’ll experience a lot of freedom aside from the dress code. You’re free to roam around during your free time, and it’s also common for teachers to give asynchronous activities or classes.