‘O’ what a week
Universities are big places! Make sure you jump on a guided tour. When you do the guided tour find out where your train/bus or accommodation is in relation to your classes. You will also get a map in O-Week – hang on to it! If you are having difficulty finding your way around the Lost on Campus app has your back. It contains maps and directions for 42 Australian campuses. Your university might even have their own app so be sure to ask the question.
You’ll also need to find your way around your institution’s online space. Universities have internal student websites you can log in to to access your subjects, resources and notices from your tutors and lecturers. This is going to be an important space for you to keep up to date with your study and course requirements, so make sure you can access any internal sites.
Universities run O-Week from mid to late February. Once you are enrolled in your course you will receive information on when orientation sessions start for you. While it may fill you with nerves O-Week is really is one of the best ways to get to know your uni.
At most unis you will be able to sign up online or at information booths for sessions. There will be some essential sessions you must attend for your course. Make sure you find out what is compulsory in O-Week and book those sessions in first and then fill the rest of your week with fun activities.
Your degree will offer a range of course and tutorial options, some of which may be compulsory. Find out your subjects early and sign up for your preferences of lectures and tutorials so you’re not stuck with the dreaded 8am Friday tutorial! A lot of universities now hold online sign-up sessions, which can be limited to specific dates and times, so make sure you find out and put a reminder (or two) in your calendar!
The faculty staff at your university will be able to advise you which electives to choose to meet the requirements of your course. Make sure you have a chat with a course coordinator before signing up.
At most unis you will be able to sign up online or at information booths for sessions. There will be some essential sessions you must attend for your course. Make sure you find out what is compulsory in O-Week and book those sessions in first and then fill the rest of your week with fun activities.
Student unions are run by students, for students and provide a range of services to members including representation, student development, support services, facilities and more. Your university student union reps will be introduced in O-Week. Their contact information will also be on message boards around campus.
All unis offer a variety of sporting, academic and cultural social groups. Joining clubs and societies is a great way to meet people who share similar interests to you and will make the adjustment to uni easier. Join up during O-Week or visit your university’s website for more information on the clubs and societies on offer.
A great initiative offered by most unis is student mentoring. The university will match first year students with an older student who can answer any questions and provide ongoing support. It’s a great way to find out how university life is structured and it always helps to be able to ask questions of someone who has been a first year before.
This advice is general in nature and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, needs or goals. You should consider whether the advice is suitable for you and your personal circumstances.