University is where you take that first step into freedom–you’re choosing where, what and when to study. It’ll be different to what you're normally used to but there is a whole lot of support available if you’re navigating this transition!
And trust us, it’s a bit of a change in pace! University will get you into gear–you will soon realise that the world has got your back by following your passions. You’ll study hard, make a lot of good friends and do many firsts - you’ll spend a few years finding yourself and understanding that people are following different paths. Sure, you might struggle at first to find that student life balance but hey, this is something you’re doing on your own, so take all the time you need!
There’s a reason for the big hoopla around graduating high school–you’re entering a bigger and broader focused course of study that you’re passionate about! Here are some reasons why uni is (thirteen times) better than high school and what to get excited about:
Freedom to create your own timetable and pick your times
No more rushing to roll call in the mornings–pick your schedule! Whether that’s nine in the morning lectures or chill arvo’s, you’ll be able to choose classes from a list of times. You might be able to squeeze them across a couple of days instead of five–beach days and a little me-time are calling your name on your days off! Speaking of...
More time to work to bring in extra dollars
If you’ve managed to score two days at uni each week, you’ll be bringing in the dosh with a part-time or casual job on the other days or weekends! Say hello to new ‘fits and avo toast!
No uniform
Wear whatever is comfortable! If you want to turn up to your tute in trackies and Birkenstocks, who’s to judge? No more sweaty, worn out polo shirts. Anything goes at uni!
The food options are limitless
Say goodbye to those awful $4 chicken wraps and sprint to the canteen as soon as the lunch bell rings - you’ll be indulging like kings and queens during your breaks! Think ChaTime, Mad Mex, PappaRich Express and UniBros in the UTS Central Food Court (plus, eating lunch alone is totally accepted).
You’re treated as an adult
You are an adult now, so you’re putting in what you want out of it! Take greater control of how you spend your time. For the first time, you’re choosing your path and for the most part, you’re on a first name basis with your tutors and lecturers - nice!
Events and activities
University hosts a range of activities and events–on campus or nightlife. Whether it’s held by societies and clubs or first year parties, there is something happening every week and it’s a guaranteed good time with mates!
You can live on campus
Having a roomie, shared living space and cooking for the first time can be a little daunting but this is your first taste of freedom and independence. Live out the ultimate uni experience and prove your ‘rents wrong (you CAN cook more than two-minute noodles).
You’re studying something you’re passionate about
You know you did better in the subjects you enjoyed, so get keen to be putting your time and energy into something you enjoy. There will be units that may not be that red hot but trust me, you’ll find ones that you’ll froth over and tutors to look up to–these will shape your outlook and future career!
You’ll be better at time-management skills
That rush to your favourite coffee shop before your train arrives will teach you how to prioritise (and how to get up as late as possible without actually being late). You’ll realise that you can watch a full online module on the train and just how much study time you need.
It’s a life-changing experience
They say some of your best years are when you’re at university and they’re not wrong. It can be an intense time with exams, social commitments and work getting full on (and being put outside your comfort zone) but you’ll come out of uni more worldly.
You can nap and chill out on campus
Yes, that’s right–get some shut eye by recharging in between classes in the Safe Sopor or wind down on some squishy bean bags in the UTS library.
Classmates have similar interests and purpose
No more bonding over schoolyard gossip. You’ll be meeting people that have similar interests and career paths to you! This type of friendship will be great long-term but to have a support network throughout your degree will get you through!
You gain self-independence
You’re living out the very affirmations you set in Year 12–you’re studying the course you love, getting things done and taking care of yourself all on your own. No matter how small or big the transition is for you, you’re going to feel more accomplished and confident!
You get to work at your own pace
If you’re finding full-time study a bit full on, you can always rely on part-time study. Remember, there is no race to the finish and your time is not limited–it’s extremely flexible!
As long as you’re making the most out of university and loving what you’re doing, you can’t go wrong! Say goodbye to high school and welcome the flexibility and support in these next few (best) years of your life.