The 2021 UNE student

This is a guest blog by college representative Elizabeth Argue, for the UNE Student Consultative Committee.

The 2021 Student Experience is shaping up to be a whirlwind of a year! While some aspects of university life have returned to “normal” there is still a myriad of differences that will have 2021 stand out as a memorable year for students.  It has been fantastic to see some on campus classes resuming and how they have brought life back to the academic campus. While there are COVID regulations to adhere to, the joy of being able to meet face to face with peers, tutors, and academics is returning.

Be sure to make the most of these opportunities by making the effort to attend classes and appreciate the teaching staff who have opened these classes to facilitate face-to-face learning once again.

Forming your own study groups with friends and peers is also a fantastic way to collaborate, learn and make the most of being able to meet in person.

The UNE library is open daily to students and has taken measures to ensure the safety of students. Studying on campus at the library is an opportunity not to be missed – and a reason to get out of your pyjamas and into a focused educational environment where you can really take ownership for your learning.

Be sure to also check out what on campus clubs, societies, and sporting groups are back in 2021. Joining a club is a wonderful way to meet like-minded individuals, have fun, get back in the swing of socialising and growing your friendships. One of our biggest tips is to find and create balance in your lifestyle so joining a group is a step in the right direction.

For those beginning their university life in a college, we encourage you to immerse yourself in the college lifestyle by making the most of all activities on offer. From social events, sporting groups to academic study mentoring, UNE colleges have a lot to offer, and it is all right at your doorstep! While it can be overwhelming to suddenly find yourself surrounded by so many people after the year of 2020, we hope that you can be open to become involved in the college community and trust yourself to branch out in ways you are comfortable with and that reflect your values.

2021 is also opening doors back into workplaces for university students to explore work experience and internships, WOHOO! Make sure you are checking your course requirements to see if work placements or units like WORK300 feature in your studies. We think that getting out into the workplace and experiencing professional life can be invaluable. Placements are a chance to put into practice the lessons you learn in class, to see what you do and don’t like in terms of future options and grow your network.

While there are so many on campus activities opening for us in 2021, we all know that online learning and engagement is still a major element of our year.

Below are our  best tips and tricks for making the most of our online life in 2021.

Set a morning routine that will set you up for success.

While some of our team love to start the day with a run and yoga class, for others just sipping a morning coffee is a perfect start. Whatever your morning routine is.

Make sure your start your day to set you up for a great day!

Get out of your pyjamas – while we all might like a lazy Sunday morning with breakfast in bed, we all agree that getting up and out of your pyjamas can make the world of difference to your productivity for the day.

Write a “to-do list”.

Whether you write a to-do list each day, the night before, or one big list for the week, having a plan for your study ensures you are not only studying, but focusing on the right thing!

Planning your week also allows you to factor in extra-curricular activities such as part time work and social activities. If you know you have already checked off so many of your study goals for the week, you will be able to enjoy and make the most of your extra-curricular activities.

Where possible and relevant – turn your zoom camera on!

This will not only bring a smile to lecturers’ faces – who love to see they are talking to real, engaged students, and will also help classes become more personalised because you will find yourself more engaged, focused, and aware of the content you are learning.

Plan online study session with your friends.

While you may be separated by physical distance, by setting aside time to study together you will both be much more motivated.

Seek support if you need it.

If you are finding yourself in need of support – make sure to reach out to the many support systems we have at UNE. From online counselling to academic support. UNE is here to support your studies.

Reward yourself.

Online study can be hard so remember to take time for self-care, getting outside and active and doing the things you love!

Thank you Elizabeth for the insightful article! If you have any questions or would like to chat with the team at SCC, you can reach out to them via their social media on Facebook and Instagram.