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Starting uni can feel like a whirlwind with a new campus, new people and new expectations. But if you’re in first year and feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry: you’re not alone. There are people who have been through the same experience as you… and I’m one of them! Now, I’m in my fifth year of study, completing my honours in Arts after graduating from a double degree of a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Arts. Here is a list of some things I wish I knew back in my first semester.
1. You don’t have to have it all figured out
It is seriously okay to not know what you’re doing in Week 1, or even Year 1. SO many of my friends, regardless of their uni, experience or age, have changed degrees. A degree you might’ve LOVED, may not be all you thought it was or might not serve your values or passions anymore, and that’s okay!
Uni is about learning everything, not just what’s in your textbooks. It’s totally fine to change your mind, your major or your plans, because you are still figuring out who you are as a person.
2. Do all the ‘extra’ things (yes, even the boring ones)
Those extra workshops, orientation activities and career info sessions? They’re actually super useful. I skipped heaps of those early on and had no idea what support was available. Now, in my 5th year of studies, I can see how valuable extra study skills could’ve been in making my learning more effective.
There were so many things that took me ages to figure out, even though they were available in free resources from the very beginning. It’s so worth mastering them at the start of the degree, rather than making the big discovery in your final semester. Skills, resources, workshops and info sessions make all the difference, especially when you complete them early on in your study.
3. Actively make friends
Your classmates aren’t just people you sit next to in lectures. They can be your study buddies, assignment teammates and support system. If there aren’t any group chats for your class: start one. Choose to say ‘hi’ in tutorials, join a club and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Building on that, you don’t have to find your best friends through uni. Many people do, many people don’t. Although I have made some incredible friends through class, I’ve also met some amazing people through volunteering, extracurricular experiences, exchange semesters, leadership programs, social sport and outside of uni activities. Don’t put pressure or a time limit on it: you’ll find your people, even if it takes longer than you may expect.
4. Use support services before you think you need them
From academic support to mental health counselling and financial help, there are heaps of services that are free for students. I didn’t even know about Studiosity until third year and am still learning EndNote (which has taken hours off my referencing). I wish I’d used and explored the support services that are available, because there is so much more than you expect.
5. Enjoy the little moments
Uni isn’t just about marks and deadlines. As cliche as it may sound: Join a club (they are some of my best memories). Try volunteering, attend events, go to that random free BBQ. First year only happens once, so make it count! It may sound pretty cringe, but it really does go fast, so stay in the moment and try to take it all in.
Extra tip: Personally, I found first year uni to have some of the hardest marking criteria and some really hard assignments. But it does get better and doesn’t stay that hard forever! Keep your chin up.
Some handy links:
Student Success Advisors offer personalised guidance and support to help students navigate the challenges of their university experience, fostering a smoother transition into academic and university life. — are they not in that thingo near the koi pond
Access the First Year Student Success Guide for information about support services and facilities to help you make the most of student life.
My Experience in OASIS hosts a range of “quests” that can help you find ways to get more involved in uni life! This includes all the exciting tasks and opportunities to help you explore your options, build yourself and apply what you’ve learned into new experiences.
The Curtin student life cheatsheet hosts the links to academic support to career advice, where to find free and fun events on campus and the best sources for student opportunities.
Follow the @curtinlifeaustralia on Instagram to hear from real students, find out about upcoming opportunities and get advice from people who’ve been in your shoes.
Subscribe to the Curtin Life YouTube channel to stay up to date on student life at the Perth campus, student tips and tricks, extracurriculars or just finding the best coffee on campus.
