The best things about uni life beyond the classroom
Uni life is more than just lectures and classes. With vibrant clubs and societies, cheap eats, sports, events and exchange programs, there’s a lot to enjoy beyond academics. We asked students what they love most about uni life outside of their studies.
Clubs and societies
University clubs and societies offer so much to their members, and they're one of the best ways to enjoy uni life beyond the classroom, says Ky Staal, a Bachelor of Information Technology student.
“There are clubs for just about any interest. They host a variety of events, whether for fun or professional development, and you can make amazing friends along the way.”
Arya Lohar, a Bachelor of Business student, joined the UTS Consulting Club to meet new people and expand her professional horizons. Her team provided consultancy services to a property-tech start-up, tackling everything from market research to financial projections.
Arya describes the experience as invaluable, pushing her to her limits and enabling her to develop real-world skills that will be beneficial as she prepares to graduate next year.
Arya Lohar and her team were the UTS Consultancy Cup winners
Samuel Coa, a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) student, is Vice President of the Playmakers society, a club dedicated to video game development. The club helps students build their skills and learn about the industry through events like game jams (similar to a hackathon), workshops and talks from industry experts.
Samuel Coa at the Playmakers stand at UTS Open Day
Exchange programs
Charlotte Armstrong, a Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Sustainability and Environment student, highlights the value of short overseas exchange programs.
“Taking a subject overseas during your holidays is a fantastic way to lighten your regular university workload while immersing yourself in a new culture,” she says.
“I completed two short programs in Denmark and Indonesia. Each lasted about a month, and both were incredible. They allowed me to focus on the subject matter, whilst experiencing the local culture — the food, the people and the amazing places we visited.
“I’ve always loved traveling, so being able to combine my studies with that passion, for a short period, was perfect. It felt more manageable than a long-term exchange for me.”
Charlotte Armstrong took part in a one-month overseas exchange program in Indonesia as part of her undergraduate studies.
Arya also participated in a two-week exchange at Nottingham Trent University in the UK, which was followed by two weeks of travel, an experience she describes as life changing.
“My time in the UK taught me a lot about myself and broadened my perspective. I continue to apply these lessons in my life back in Australia. The experience has only made my ambition grow,” she says.
Professional experiences
Yianni Kallegeros, a Bachelor of Economics student, highlights the abundance of uni jobs and leadership opportunities as one of the best things about UTS. He has taken on the role of Student Ambassador and supported the Student Learning Hub with their activities.
Dhruv Johri, a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Business student, points to the value of student teams.
“I’ve gained so much industry-relevant knowledge from my participation in both engineering and business teams like UTS Rover and UTS Case team. These experiences are a huge plus for future employers and make the university experience more inclusive.”
Dhruv Johri is part of the UTS Rover Team
Sports
Staying active is key to getting the most out of your university experience, and sports are a big hit among UTS students.
At UTS, you can join competitive teams or participate in social sports like futsal, basketball or netball.
Cindy Le, a Bachelor of Nursing student, is excited about the new UTS Dodgeball team.
“Dodgeball is a fun sport that everyone should try. We have sessions on Monday mornings and Thursday afternoons, which is a great way to stay active and meet people.”
If you prefer solo workouts, the uni also offers discounted gym access, helping you stay fit and energised throughout your studies.
Student life
Student life at UTS is vibrant and diverse. Cindy notes how easy it is to make friends at UTS thanks to its welcoming and open community.
“Whether you're meeting new people in class or attending society events, you’re bound to meet friendly students and make friends for life.”
She also enjoys spending time in the Student Learning Hub.
“I often take a detour into Building 2 just to go through the hub and see what activities the library has planned for the week,” she says.
For quiet study spots, Ky recommends the Building 11 basement floor, Building 1 level 5/6 and Building 8. These areas offer a peaceful environment and plenty of available desks.
Charlotte loves the blend of indoor and outdoor spaces at UTS, and says that studying outside, especially when the chairs are set out on the grass of Alumni Green is wonderful.
Student life at UTS Alumni Green
The campus offers loads of places to eat and drink. Here are some student favourites:
- Anita Gelato: Ice cream
- Cafe 10: Vietnamese food
- The Little Roaster: Coffee
- UniBros: Snack packs and friendly staff
- Cornerstone Cafe: Happy hour with $2 coffees, free birthday coffees and a good breakfast deal
- PappaRich Express: Authentic Malaysian hawker food
- Universal Cafe: Coffee, pastries, sandwiches
- Mrs & George: Daily $10 lunch specials, quieter than the main food court
- Top Impression Bakery (Central Park Mall): Delicious pastries and drinks, close to campus, but you get a change of scenery
- Cafe ACRO+ (Central Park Mall): Great coffee and specialty drinks and food
- Spice Alley: Tasty, affordable food options. Open late as well!
- Darling Square: Heaps of options and right near the water.
With so many choices, there's always something to do and a place to meet people at UTS.
Make the most of your time
University life is an adventure that extends far beyond the classroom. Whether you’re joining clubs, going on exchange programs, playing sports or gaining work experience, there’s something for everyone.
These experiences enrich your time at uni and help you grow both personally and professionally. Dive in, try new things, and make the most of every moment. The friendships and memories you create outside of your studies will be some of the most valuable parts of your university journey.
Why not explore the UTS student experience for yourself and unlock everything uni life has to offer.
