Learn - Personal Journey

By weeks six or seven, uni life and lectures are often interesting and enjoyable. Or you could feel bored with some classes. As the workload increases, you might wonder if you can keep up with the reading and understand the important topics in your chosen field. It does all become clearer.

You've probably received some feedback about your first assignment by now. Perhaps you're pleased. Sometimes students feel disappointed about their marks or their tutor's comments. Don't despair! Speak to your tutor because this is an opportunity to improve your academic skills.

Now you're more at home, you might like to revisit how you learn and study best. Step by step you can develop your confidence and skills as an active learner.

Keep up your effort and be optimistic. Try to stay motivated and persist in the face of any setbacks. Think about why you're here. There are ways to deal with procrastination.

You might like to think about your study and career goals at this stage. Get help with your career goals.

Study- Work- Life Balance

As you engage more with uni life, check out your study- work-life balance. We know you'll get better results if you attend classes and do extra study outside class. Many students need to work and this can be a tricky juggling act.

Those who study full time and work a paid job for long hours (more than 12.5 a week) might need to re-assess their load, for example, study three instead of four courses. Students with family commitments also feel pressured sometimes.

You may be able to re-adjust your balance to deal with peak periods during semester. Many students find new, creative ways to manage their tasks and time effectively. Read some tips about time management.

Some attention to regular exercise, sleep and good food will provide fuel to keep you going through the year. Make time for family, friends and fun. Creating a balanced life will help you stay healthy and motivated to study.

Seek support early if things aren't falling into place.

Students comments

"Some of my lectures are great. I'm learning heaps."

"I like hearing other people's ideas in tutes."

"I'd written essays before and thought 'what else is there to know?'. I felt embarrassed about my first marks but now I know how to argue my own opinion better."

"Don't be scared to reduce your workload so you have a balanced life."

"If you stop procrastinating and put in half an hour of work be proud of yourself and reward yourself, even if it's mentally congratulating your self."

"I went along to the Counselling Service, downloaded and worked out my next move."

Student Tip: How do you feel about yourself as a student?

"Remind yourself why you're studying if you lose motivation."

"Expect ups and downs in confidence along the way."

"Keep doing a bit at a time even if you're feeling hammered."

"Don't forget about me time."