April 27, 2022

Message to students - 27 April, 2022

Dear Students, a very warm welcome back to the second half of Autumn Session. I hope you’ve enjoyed the break and have come back feeling refreshed and energised.

Visit to the U.S. 

I’ve just arrived back from the U.S., where I was meeting with UOW alumni, colleagues and research collaborators from Boston, Washington, New York, Baltimore and more. It was a busy trip, but so wonderful to connect in person with these people, witnessing first-hand the careers, connections, and opportunities the University has created far and wide.  

Last night’s UOW College Graduation Ceremony  

I hope those of you who attended the UOW College graduation last night had a lovely celebration. We’re so proud of each of you and hope you feel a tremendous amount of success and achievement. Well done!  

Upcoming Graduation Ceremonies – change of venue 

In case you missed the update about our May graduation ceremonies, the WIN Entertainment Centre (WEC) is unfortunately no longer available to host these events for reasons beyond our control. Although changing the venue is disappointing, these events will still go ahead on our beautiful Wollongong campus, from May 2 – 4. With over 12,000 people – graduates, family, and friends – expected to attend across the three days, we look forward celebrating in style and offering a truly memorable occasion for those who missed out during the height of the pandemic and restrictions.  

COVID-19 household contact updates 

You may have heard that changes have been made to the isolation requirements for household contacts of people with COVID-19 in NSW. Please see the latest NSW Government updates here. If you are a household contact of someone with COVID-19, and you do not have any symptoms, you do not need to self-isolate, but must follow the guidelines here for 7 days. You should be aware that you are at increased risk of COVID-19 and need to take steps to protect the people around you. As always, it is of the utmost importance to monitor your own symptoms, test and isolate as required. If you haven’t yet, please book a time to receive your booster, and a reminder that flu-season is here, so be sure to receive your flu shot as soon as you can.  

UOWx ‘Speaking with Confidence’ virtual seminar 

Finally, UOWx are hosting an exciting virtual seminar event next Monday, May 2,  12 – 1:30 pm. Aptly named, the "Speaking with Confidence" seminar will be delivered by Jodie Cooper, an experienced coach, author and public speaking specialist. As someone who often has to speak in front of crowds, I still sometimes face nerves, but with tools like this it becomes easier and the benefits of being able to confidentially approach a stage, microphone or simply make a point in front of a small group of people is a valuable asset for life. I highly recommend registering and attending Jodie’s seminars. 

I wish you a warm welcome back to your studies and to campus life.  Don’t forget we are still living through the pandemic and don’t forget the importance of immunization and observing public health principles.  

My best,  
Trish