A High Schooler’s Guide to University

Despite it being something I always imagined myself doing, nothing could settle the fears that I would despise my course, have no friends, or not love it as much as I thought I would. However, as I sit in my room and type out this blog, I can happily admit that I couldn't have been more wrong.

So, let me introduce myself. My name is Sophie, and I want to share my experience transitioning from high school to university. Or in other words, I want to write something that I needed to read a year ago when I began my year 12 journey. 

Surviving High School

To state the obvious, the HSC is tough. It's not easy wrapping your head around several subjects and their content. I remember walking into my exams and re-reading the questions over and over because I just couldn’t concentrate. If you’re scrambling through the internet searching for study notes, trust me, I've been there.

In these moments, I learned you need to be your own best friend. Do the work yourself, and not wait until your friend starts the assignment first. See a teacher if you’re confused, or get someone who understands the work to explain it to you. It requires a proactive approach, yet picking up these habits will help you tremendously.

Finishing high school feels amazing, despite how anticlimactic it may seem when you wake up that following Monday. For the majority of you, you’ll figure out who you are and who you want to be and will be able to make decisions for yourself rather than relying on your parents.

 My friends and I at graduation.  

Starting University

Everyone anticipates the first week of university. A piece of advice is to start a conversation with everyone you can. You’re all in the same boat and want to make friends just as much as the person standing across from you does. So why not make the first move?

In my first few weeks at Uni, I was extremely overwhelmed trying to balance sport, work, social, and academic life. Luckily, I fell into a routine and began to properly manage my time. There are hundreds of opportunities for you to join clubs and societies, where you can meet new people and make friends. 

Resources and Support

There are tons of ways to get help at UOW, from consultations with peers and academics to study support seminars and online learning seminars. Seek out and use your lecturers and tutors to your advantage. They’re there to help you and are part of the resource you pay for. 

If you’re considering applying to UOW, just know it’s a great decision and that I thoroughly recommend it. If you’re currently studying for the HSC, I wish you all the best and remember there is light at the end of the tunnel.