March 6, 2023

Message to students - 6 March, 2023

Dear Students, welcome to the new week!

At UOW, March means our Autumn Session is in full bloom, and our campuses are busy again, buzzing with new and returning students, multi-languages and fun events. I hope you managed to take part in some of last week’s ‘Let’s Go Respect’ events and activities, fostering inclusivity and diversity at our campuses. 

I highly recommend that you take the time to view this video, Respect at UOW produced by our team at Safe and Respectful Communities (SARC), as it provides a profound demonstration of what true respect means here at UOW. 

VC messages moved to Monday

You may have noticed the changed timing of our weekly messages. From now on, you can expect to receive communication from me every Monday afternoon. After careful consideration and some student feedback, we found that this change aligns better with everyone’s schedule and will make it easier for you to stay up-to-date with important University information and events. 

Thank you for your continued engagement and feedback as we strive to make your experience at UOW the best possible.

Let’s Go Connect

University life can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly for those who have just moved to the area, leaving behind their old friends, family and familiar routines. That’s why, this week, we’re inviting you all to participate in Let’s Go Connect, a suite of exciting events and activities designed to help you find your people, in class and outside. 

Let’s Go Connect has a lot on offer: from casual coffee catch-ups, free breakfast sessions, mindfulness workshops and a table tennis competition to special events for first-in-family or mature students. You shouldn’t miss ‘Speed-Friending - Lunch on the Lawn’ on Tuesday 7 March at 12.30 pm (Wollongong Campus, Duckpond Lawn) or the chance to check out UOW Social Clubs on Wednesday 8 March at 10 am (Wollongong Campus, Duckpond Lawn again). All campuses have a great selection of activities. Check the full schedule.

Your Connect checklist:

1. Join our 2023 First Year Facebook Group if you're a new student
2. Follow @uowstudents on Instagram for all the latest info on student life
3. Visit the Students’ Hub on Wollongong campus and connect with peers to find opportunities, services and support
4. Connect with a
5. Sign up to
6. Talk to a stranger!

Research shows that students who feel a sense of belonging and have robust support systems around them achieve better grades, are happier and more resilient. I encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and take advantage of the events during Let's Go Connect week. Whether it's attending a workshop, joining a sports team/social club, or participating in a networking event, there's something for everyone. I look forward to meeting some of you throughout the week and seeing the positive impact our ‘Let’s Go Connect’ week will have on our UOW student community.

Luminaries seminar: The future of data and AI in Australian healthcare

This year, UOW has launched a new series of fortnightly webinars that will explore big questions and new frontiers in healthcare, science and sustainability, the UOW Luminaries, and you’re all invited to participate. This week’s online seminar will debate the role of data and Artificial intelligence (AI) in patient-centred healthcare. Have you ever wondered where your medical records end up? And what are the ethical and social implications of sharing and using big data, and employing AI-based technologies? 

Find out more on Thursday 9 March in the next .

UOW Alumni Awards

Each year, UOW proudly celebrates the achievements of outstanding UOW alumni from around the globe, including creative innovators in business, those having a remarkable impact on our society and local communities, young graduates making great strides in their careers, researchers working on cutting-edge inventions, individuals who demonstrate professional excellence and trail-blazers in the arts and creative sectors.

We want to celebrate our large UOW family by showcasing these great people and their achievements. If you know someone who deserves a shout-out, please get a nomination in until 11 April 2023. You can check the categories and vote by visiting the . The winners will be announced at the Alumni Awards Gala in October.

I hope you all have a productive and rewarding week ahead.

Regards,

Trish