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Meet Andrew, a first-year Bachelor of Science (Health Sciences) student, who has made a significant transition this year, from the tight-knit town of Tom Price in the Pilbara to the bustling and diverse community at uni here in Perth. Moving from a town of fewer than 3,000 people to a major city has been a journey filled with adjustments, growth, and newfound opportunities.
For Andrew, science has always been a passion. Chemistry has fascinated him since high school, where supportive teachers and a close-knit community encouraged him to chase his dreams. Health sciences emerged as his calling, blending his interest in chemistry with a desire to help people.
“I’ve always looked up to people who use science to benefit humanity. I know it’s ambitious, but I want to help remove sickness and pain from this world.”
Though his initial ambitions shifted, from surgery to dentistry to general practice, health sciences felt like the perfect fit. Moving to Perth wasn’t without its challenges. “At first, it felt like I’d landed on Mars,” Andrew jokes. The sheer size of the city and being away from family made for a tough start, but he found support through the uni’s Wellbeing Team and leaned on his parents and brothers for encouragement. The Wellbeing Team made a big difference for him and helped him adjust by suggesting clubs to join and study groups to connect with. By his second semester, Andrew was more comfortable, making friends in his course and participating in programs like UniPASS, which became a highlight of his first year. UniPASS, a peer-assisted study program, was a turning point for Andrew. “It was like this perfect third space where we could learn and connect with friends outside of lectures,” he says. He credits it with helping him navigate academic challenges while forming meaningful relationships.
Andrew tells students to make the most of the resources available. He advises students to not feel afraid to reach out for help, whether it’s the Wellbeing team or UniPASS, reminding that they’re there to support you. He also encourages students to take the leap and attend programs or clubs more than once. He reminds that sometimes it can take a couple of tries to find your groove, but it’s worth it.
His final advice? Take it one step at a time. University can feel overwhelming, but with support and persistence, you’ll find your way.
