Student Hub Building on ECU's Joondalup Campus
If you're one of the small percentage of school leavers who know exactly what they want to study and the course is only offered at one university, it's probably a no-brainer.
But we think most students should be asking some important questions before making this decision.
Does the university help you with your studies?
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.
You'll also need to learn how to learn.
OK that might sound strange, but it means developing the ability to analyse, think critically and problem-solve. Skills you'll take into every job, career, or business venture as a graduate.
For example, time management takes on a whole new dimension at uni. Especially if you've got a casual job to balance with your studies.
And you'll need to be across a university’s learning systems and understand things like referencing, how to use the library and more.
So when you feel like you're hitting a wall with study, or getting confused about new academic concepts, it's great if a university has people or services to help you out.
At ECU, you can expect to have peer mentors and buddies in your first year. And there are learning advisers, online tutors and even Student Success people – that's how much we care about you staying on track and graduating!
Speaking of graduates, ours have rated us 5 stars for student support in the latest Good Universities Guide. It's the best for a university in Western Australia (in case you were wondering).
Does the university try to understand you when life affects your studies?
Uni life can be challenging, but sometimes there are more personal things going on in your life that can affect your studies.
Not all universities will pick up on your struggles or offer you the kind of help you might need. But at ECU, you can expect to be heard. And helped.
We've got professional counsellors you can talk to confidentially. And it's a free service. We also have people who can help you enhance your uni experience, especially if you have a disability or a medical condition. Or if you have caring responsibilities for someone at home.
Adjustments can be made to your study program depending on your situation, including how and where you sit your exams.
Does the university have a great reputation for teaching?
This seems like a no-brainer but not all universities are made equal. Quality of teaching varies from one to the other. This shows up every year in places like the Good Universities Guide ratings.
Those ratings come from surveys of graduates. For 17 years running, ECU has been given 5 stars. It's one of very few unis in Australia with that result. It reflects the care and attention our teaching staff give to students. Keep that in mind too!
Students don't often think about these things when considering universities. But once they enter the world of uni study it can be a whole different story!
