The transition into university life can be an overwhelming one. University is a brand-new experience where you can embrace new opportunities for academic and personal development. Below are some tips for getting through your first week and setting yourself up for the new journey ahead of you!
- Check your unit outline
Check your unit outlines before you start attending classes. The unit outline will let you know the expectation of the unit, the main person of contact for the unit and what textbooks or resources you may need to take to the first class. Checking your unit outline will help you be prepared for your first week and less overwhelmed.
- Go to class
Tuning in to or attending the first week of classes in your first-ever week of university can seem like a daunting task. Will you know everything you need to complete the class? Fear not! In your first week, the majority of your classes will be welcomes and run-throughs of what’s expected. In this first class you will learn what’s expected of you, complete any necessary admin, meet your tutors and lecturers and get their contact details.
- Familiarise yourself with campus
If you have time between classes of during your first week, go for a walk around campus. Walking around campus with no rush to get to class is a great way to get to know the campus. Eventually you’ll know the campus like the back of your hand, but in the first week going for a walk and checking out all the facilities will help you locate key landmarks such as the library, cafes and Curtin Connect in the future. Can’t make it to campus just yet? Then check out one of our virtual tours to get to know the campus.
- Meet new people
You may have a mixture of in-person and online classes this semester, but don’t let this hold you back from meeting new people! Introduce yourself to other students in your class when you see them in-person or in an online breakout session, set up a Facebook group or chat for your unit, and communicate with your classmates over Blackboard Collaborate. You’ll probably find everyone else is just as nervous as you to be starting university. Introducing yourself and getting to know the people in your classes is a great way to make some new friends and also create a study group for the unit you are taking. A study group is a great way to help each other navigate your first semester together. If you’re doing the same major, chances are you’ll have a lot more classes with these people in the future!
- Buy a calendar or daily planner
Being aware of all your key dates at university is a priority. Having a calendar or daily planner where you can log assignment dates, class changes, extra-curricular activities, or exam dates will help you stay on top of your units. Using one of these to keep you organised from the first day is a great idea as key dates are usually discussed in the first class and can be written down straight away.
- Relax!
Finding classes, meeting new people and learning what’s expected of you can be both overwhelming and time-consuming. It’s important to remember everybody on campus wants you to succeed to the best of your abilities. This is the start of a new chapter in your life, don’t forget to embrace the new experience.
Written by public relations student Taysha Sullivan
