Page 27 - Dainfern Precinct Living Issue 2 2025
P. 27

EDUCATION





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               E Embracing the full campus experience
               The university is not just about academics. It is an opportunity to grow
               holistically, and the best higher education institutions offer a vibrant array
               of opportunities to enrich student life. Dr Meyer urges first-years to take
               advantage of these resources.
               “Join clubs, societies, and professional networks. Whether it’s a sports team,
               cultural group, or academic club, these experiences will complement your
               studies and help you build meaningful relationships. Some people you meet
               may become lifelong friends, professional collaborators, or mentors who
               shape your journey.”
               She adds that building a support network early is vital.
               “Making new friends takes time, so be proactive. Attend orientation events,
               join study groups, and participate in campus activities. Surrounding yourself   Dr Linda Meyer
               with peers who share your goals and interests can make all the difference in   Managing Director of The
               navigating the highs and lows of university life.”                      Independent Institute of
                                                                                       Education’s Rosebank College and
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               L Leveraging campus resources                                           Oxbridge Academy
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               One of the first tasks for incoming students should be to explore their
               institution’s resources. Libraries, tutoring centres, counselling services, and
               career guidance offices are invaluable support systems designed to help
               students succeed.

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                                                                                  B Building a healthy, balanced
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               “The workload may feel overwhelming at first,” Dr Meyer acknowledges. “But
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               don’t wait until it’s too late to seek help. Asking for academic or personal   l lifestyle
               assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Familiarise yourself with   Finally, Dr Meyer emphasises the
               available resources early, so you know exactly where to turn when you need   importance of maintaining a balanced
               support.”                                                          lifestyle. The freedom of university can
                                                                                  lead to poor habits if students are not
                                                                                  intentional about their routines.
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               N Navigating technology and campus logistics s
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               Adapting to university life also involves mastering new systems and tools.   “Develop healthy habits from the start.
               Students must become adept at using technology, including learning   Create a manageable balance between
               management systems, online libraries, and communication platforms.
                                                                                  academics, personal time, and social
                                                                                  activities. Challenges and
               “Spend time on the student portal to understand how it works and ensure   opportunities will come your way, and
               you have the necessary tech equipment,” Dr Meyer advises. “You’ll rely
               heavily on devices and software for coursework, communication, and   a healthy foundation will ensure you
               research. Familiarity with these tools is essential to keep up with academic   can navigate them effectively.”
               demands.”
                                                                                  She encourages students to remain
                                                                                  open-minded and fully embrace
                                                                                  the transformative power of higher
                                                                                  education.
                                                                                  “University is a time to explore, grow,
                                                                                  and prepare yourself to make
                                                                                  meaningful contributions to your
                                                                                  community and the world. Approach it
                                                                                  with curiosity and determination, and
                                                                                  you’ll leave with a qualification and as
                                                                                  a well-rounded individual ready to take
                                                                                  on life’s challenges.
                                                                                  “By embracing the opportunities and
                                                                                  responsibilities of university life,
                                                                                  students can set themselves on a path
                                                                                  toward academic achievement,
                                                                                  personal growth, and future success.”
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