The Iglu Guide | Blog
Tips for domestic students: Transitioning to university
When the time comes to head off to university, there’s definitely some big changes ahead. As sad as you might be to leave the comforts of the school gates environment, there’s plenty to be excited about in your future. But the big difference is that the onus is now on you to get yourself to class, turn in assignments on time, make new friends and adjust to new ways of living. It’s a lot. And once the initial excitement of independence has rubbed off, the reality can feel a little overwhelming. Here’s how to get yourself on track right from the very start.
Organise your student accommodation
Some domestic students choose to live at home if they are studying in the same city, while others still choose to experience living away. Many domestic students choose to study in another Australian city to broaden their experiences. Whatever you decide to do, sort it out well in advance as student accommodation places are notoriously competitive, and you need to be well on your game in order to secure the best options. If you’re on the fence about where to live, think about the type of student accommodation that will suit you best. Ask yourself whether your preference is to live independently or stay with family or friends, how far you are prepared to travel in and out of uni, and what sort of facilities you would need. Once you have an idea of your priorities you can start to make some firm decisions.
Find your way around
The best way to settle in to student life is to get out and explore your new surroundings. Start off with O-week and get familiar with everything your uni has to offer. This is the single most important event for every new student starting out. Not only will you get the lowdown on clubs, societies and services, you’ll load up on freebies, meet a whole bunch of new people, and have some fun along the way. Take a campus tour and find out where you’ll be having your lectures, get some facetime with your new professors and take the opportunity to meet your course peers. Being a student is all about shared experiences, and O-Week is where it all begins. If you’re living away from home, check out what’s going on in your student accommodation. At Iglu, the Resident Leaders organise weekly social events for all students to enjoy. It’s a great way to meet new faces and start to feel at home.
Get control of the money
Living independently is also about learning to manage your own money and staying on top of the finances – even if you are still living at home. You’ll have to work within a fixed budget and track your daily expenses such as food, social activities and transport costs. Some students take on a part time job to supplement their living costs which can also double up as valuable work experience. Iglu offers a regional scholarship opportunity to students hoping to study in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane where the cost of accommodation is a genuine barrier to entry.
Learn the art of independent study
University is all about honing your independence, and when it comes to studying, self-motivation is key to success. Before you head off, think about how you learn best and how you can improve your existing study habits. Getting a head start is the best way to establish strategies and habits that will benefit you in the future.
- Own your time and work to a study timetable
- Plan a dedicated study space in your room at home, or in your new student accommodation
- Set some reasonable limits on your social media scrolling
- Engage in your learning – lean into group study opportunities and ask plenty of questions to get the most from your experience
- Take advantage of technology and find the best study apps that work for you
Build a support network
University is all about making memories and meeting new people, but it won’t always be plain sailing. That’s why you need a rock-solid support network that’s made up of family, old friends and a fab bunch of brand new university friends. The idea of making new friends might send shivers through you, and you’re certainly not alone. It’s important to remember that everyone is in the same boat – with a shared ambition in mind. You might think that domestic students don’t need any new friends but it’s simply not the case. All students want to create friendships that are part of this formative life experience.
- Keep in touch with home and older friendship groups – to prop you up when things aren’t going so well
- Join university clubs or societies to meet new groups and build new friendships
- Try out for the uni sports teams
- Form study groups to get to know your peers
- Attend weekly social activities as organised by your student accommodation
- Organise social events with housemates
Protect your wellbeing
The step change from school to university can be exhausting, and some students find the balancing act between social and academics incredibly pressured. Looking after your physical and mental wellbeing is high priority, but without constant parental oversight it’s too easy to let this one slip. To avoid the risk of burnout, students need to maintain healthy eating habits, get plenty of sleep, take regular exercise and get outside in the fresh air. Tuning in to how you are feeling is equally as important, particularly as it can help you recognise those stress triggers and implement strategies to help. It’s important to remember there are always people around to help you. Every Iglu building has a team of onsite Resident Leaders who are always happy to provide support.
Career planning
It might sound like a crazy idea when you’re just starting out in your degree course at uni, but this is also the start of your adult resumé. Everything you do at university is a possible stepping stone into your new career, whatever that may be. Most universities have an extensive student services department with a huge range of resources available. Here, you’ll find guidance on resumés, cover letters, volunteering, internships and job searches. There will be career workshops, industry events and networking opportunities to name just a few. Be sure to take advantage of everything on offer as this gives you that all-important competitive edge when it comes to hitting the job market after graduation.
