When you first start uni, graduation feels miles away. Then suddenly, you’re in your final semester wondering where all the time went. The truth? University isn’t just about getting a degree, it’s about the memories, connections and experiences that shape who you are. Here’s how to make every semester count so you leave Curtin with no regrets.
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1. Join something… anything!
Whether it’s a club, sport, volunteering program or cultural group, getting involved helps you meet new people and find your community. Don’t stress about finding the perfect club, just pick something that interests you and give it a go. You’ll gain friendships, skills, and stories you’ll remember long after your assignments are done.
Don’t forget to stick it out too. You may go to one or two club events and not feel the vibes immediately, but through consistency and spending more time outside your comfort zone, you’ll start to see progress.
2. Say yes to opportunities (Even the scary ones)
Go to that networking event. Apply for the internship. Put your hand up for a leadership role. The best moments often happen outside your comfort zone. Curtin has heaps of programs, like Curtin Volunteers!, Curtin Extra and student mentoring, that give you a real-world edge. It’s absolutely worth going on a John Curtin Weekend, trying a new social sport or becoming part of a program, so engage with them and try out new opportunities!
3. Explore every corner of campus
From the leafy calm of Henderson Court to the energy of the Creative Quarter, Curtin’s campus has its own rhythm. Aim to come to campus as much as you can, try not to leave straight after class and do your groupwork in person! It’s so easy to get into the routine of studying at home, but studies show that when you have a separate workspace from living/ sleeping spaces, your productivity actually increases, and you perform better in exams and assignments! Try studying in new spots, grabbing lunch at different cafés or attending events like Pop Up Picnics. The more you explore, the more you’ll feel part of the uni vibe.
4. Make time for people
Uni can get hectic, but the people you meet are what make it special. Grab coffee with classmates, plan study dates or join group activities. Some of the strongest friendships, and even future collaborations start right here. It can be really hard to make new friends, and it sometimes feels as if uni friendships won’t become long-lasting, but consistency and hanging out with people outside of group assignments is worth it! Ask people to lunch after class, ask them to meet you at the library, invite them out – don’t just wait for them to ask you!
5. Reflect and reset each semester
At the end of every semester, take a moment to look back. What worked? What didn’t? Reflection helps you grow, and keeps each semester feeling fresh and purposeful.
It’s easy to get caught up in deadlines, but don’t let your studies be the only thing defining your experience. Take breaks, celebrate small wins, and remember that enjoying the journey matters just as much as the results.
Your time at Curtin is what you make it. Try new things, embrace challenges, and connect with your community. When graduation comes around, you’ll be proud of everything you said yes to.
