Starting university might be a little challenging for anyone, especially if you’ve just moved to Australia to study. While it can be a challenge to adapt to a new course in a new country with a new culture. Your university years may be some of the best you’ll have and they’ll probably pass quickly. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your first year.
Get involved.
Embrace the new world you’ve stepped into, since there’s a lot you can take back from your experience in Australia than just a University degree. Try to enjoy being on campus in a new culture, and take advantage of the societies and events that your university provides. This will ensure you have more memories of your time in Australia than just the inside of lecture theatres.
Set goals and plan a schedule.
There will be no school teachers chasing you for assignments and making sure you get to class, you take things in your own hands. Freedom is good, but it also means you need to take responsibility for getting your work completed. Use your calendar and enter all your due dates and extra-curricular events. Break up assignments into smaller goals so that you don’t need to stay up all night the day before they are due.
Seek support when you need it.
While you are expected to take control of your academic progress, there is support available if you need it. You may seek assistance from your lecturers and tutors if you’re struggling with studies. If you are experiencing personal issues, universities also have counsellors and support services on campus, which are often free of charge for students. If you need to miss a class or don’t think you can meet an assessment deadline, chat to your lecturer or tutor ahead of time.
Allow yourself some downtime.
Degrees are usually a minimum of three years and will feel even longer if you don’t take some time out to recharge. Include time to relax and enjoy life as a student in your schedule, whether it’s a regular night out with friends, or doing non-university related activities.