Imogen Haines.
Exams are out of the way and the countdown to the results is on.
What follows is a short period running into next year where students can change their university preferences for 2025.
Choosing the right university is important. It not only impacts the overall experience of a student but can affect their self-esteem and motivation to keep going until graduation.
But how do you choose?
Our advice is this: have a close look at the culture as well as the course when deciding on a university.
That means finding out how much support – academic as well as personal – students can expect throughout their studies.
It also means how much preparation for future employment they can expect as part of their chosen course.
Support whenever you need it
University study is not easy. It requires you to keep up with the reading and lectures for your chosen subjects, get your assignments in on time and more.
Students also need to learn how to learn.
That means developing the ability to analyse, think critically and problem-solve. Skills to take into every job, career, or business venture as a graduate.
So, when they feel like they're hitting a wall with study, or getting confused about new academic concepts, ECU has people or services to help.
There's even a Student Success team – that's how much we care about students staying on track and graduating!
Changing your mind is OK
Many school leavers can be unsure of the direction they want to go in.
But worry not. ECU will back you, even if you change your mind.
Like Imogen Haines who started a Bachelor of Marketing, Advertising & Public Relations.
Halfway through her degree, she had a change of heart. She'd found her mojo. She needed to change courses.
"I found out that I have more of an interest in the corporate world," Imogen said.
"I want to work for a large company or start my own business and be a powerhouse in the business sector.
"This realisation made me switch degrees and I'm starting a Bachelor of Commerce next year."
Rather than completely change courses like Imogen, many degrees will give you a taste of possible career directions in the first year.
Find the flavour you like and then forge ahead with a chosen subject for the rest of the degree.
Preparing for the future
At ECU, we believe it's not what you learn, but how you learn it that really matters.
It's why our students get hands-on experience often in their first year – either in our own custom-built facilities or through prac placements or internships with possible future employers.
Our teaching staff also help students develop industry connections through networking opportunities while they're studying.
As part of her studies, Imogen was selected to present her ideas in a marketing campaign pitch to well-known WA company Brownes Dairy.
"I love that I was given the opportunity to work with real businesses, putting me in contact with professionals I may have the opportunity to work with in the future," she says.
Imogen chose well.
If you're considering university preferences for 2025, we hope you follow her lead.
