Survival tips for uni students

Prying yourself away from the beach, off the couch or out of bed to make it to university after a holiday or study break can be a challenge.

If 2017 is your first year at uni, here’s a quick guide to help you get the most from your time on campus.

1. Set realistic expectations

You may have left high school last year as a top performer, but at university you meet other high achievers. Don’t get too precious about ranking, just focus on learning as much as you can. Getting your family to understand the reality of university can also help relieve pressure.

2. Keep on top of study

Orientation week is a party, but you’ll need to hit the ground running in week two. Do all the required study when you’re supposed to. Completing small chunks on a regular basis is better than trying to read an entire textbook just before the final exam.

You can ask your tutor questions about anything you don’t understand along the way, so references don’t go over your head later.

You may also occasionally take subjects that are too difficult or that you don’t find interesting. Keep these in check – you don’t want to do them again!

3. Start networking

Socialising is a big part of university life.

In addition to your classmates, you’ll find an array of clubs and societies that cater for different interests – from sports to religion, and politics to partying. This is your chance to meet a range of people, not just those who may be future professional peers, but others who can widen your world view.

4. Know your deadlines

Your lecturers and tutors may have already scheduled exams and assignments, so familiarise yourself with this timetable and set some soft deadlines – for example, a due date for the first draft of an assignment.

Lecturers and tutors often have hundreds of students, so asking for an extension is difficult without a very good excuse (e.g. medical issue, family bereavement), and they often attract penalties.

5. Find study/life balance

Identify what you want from your time at university. If you’re working part-time and/or getting involved in various clubs and societies, make sure your commitment to study is in line with this goal.

Are you doing too much studying and not enough of anything else, or vice versa? No one will tell you what the right balance is – you need to figure it out for yourself.

Enjoy your study this semester and stay tuned to the Careers in Tax blog for more helpful tips and advice.

Give yourself the edge with free student membership

If you're a tertiary education student, The Tax Institute can help you progress in your career.

Find out about Student Membership.