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Preparing for University in 2024

27 February 2024

Some tips from ATN to get new university students started as the beginning of the semester rolls around.

Many Australian streets are bustling this week as students head back to university, ready to tackle the new academic year. 

From navigating your way around a busy campus to choosing your seat in the lecture hall, starting university can be daunting for first year and PHD students alike. No matter what stage of Higher Education you’re in, embarking on a new academic year is an exciting step to a new phase of learning and growth. Here are a few things that can help you be best prepared the year ahead.   

Firstly, ensuring that you prioritise your mental health is key to a successful year. University is a marathon not a sprint, and burnout can be a risk for some students. Having a strong sleep schedule and building recreation into your hectic schedule, and recovery time, will help you get the most out of the great education our universities have to offer.  

Secondly, as the saying goes – if you fail to prepare, you are preparing to fail. There might be more exciting things about going back to university than a stationery stock-up but done right it can be both a bit of fun with your friends and, most importantly, ensure that you have the right tools to succeed. Checking your subjects pre-work and writing down due dates for all your assignments can make university seem less daunting and highlight weeks that may need more effort and time, than others.   

Familiarise yourself with your university’s help centre both online and in person. Our unis have great resources on offer and being familiar with the help centres will aid you in accessing all the resources available to help you succeed at university.  

Finally, get to know your campus! Organise your travel and concession cards then take a wander around your campus. Finding the best café or study spot is all a part of the great university experience that Australia has to offer. If you missed out during orientation, fear not, you can still find out about the clubs on offer, where and when they meeting. 

Feeling comfortable on your campus can help you connect with like-minded individuals and make your university experience all the more enjoyable.

Higher education has so much to offer and is life changing for those who embrace it in its entirety.

Good luck to all students starting this week – enjoy your uni experience!