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How to have a great uni experience

Life as a uni student is not all lectures, assignments, and trips to the library. University is like a whole new world where you get to define your place in it. It's way more than studying!

Large gathering of university students and staff at an on-campus event ECU’s Student Guild tent at an Orientation Day on Joondalup Campus.
Four students playing badminton
Students playing badminton at the ECU Sports Centre on Joondalup Campus.

Just to be clear. It's still important that you keep up with lectures and complete your assignments on time. And if you ever need help with assignments or study techniques, or anything affecting your studies for that matter, ask for help. It's what we do really well.

Now, when you're not lost in your special subjects, you should make the most of your time at university. That means tapping into social events, joining groups with other students who share an interest with you, joining a sports team or even volunteering.

Start with the Student Guild

The Student Guild tends to go under the radar a bit unless you happen by one of their sausage sizzles on campus (apologies to vegetarians/vegans).

The Guild helps new students feel welcome by running social and cultural events on campus. They're the go-to place for many things.

This includes helping you find out about university clubs or societies that they support. Like most unis around the world, ECU has loads of clubs you can join. We cater for every interest imaginable!

This is where you can not only make some new friends, but even enhance your studies by pursuing something related to them. Or not. Either way, check out our clubs.

Into sports and fitness?

ECU campuses have terrific sports and gym facilities, plus opportunities to join group fitness classes, social sports teams or attend regular healthy activities.

This is another great way to meet new people and build networks.

And of course being physically active positively stimulates your student brain and helps you reduce the stress of assignment deadlines or exams. You'll sleep better too!

Do some volunteering

Here's one you may not have thought about. And you're probably thinking this is what your grandparents do now that they're retired.

But volunteering is not only good for your sense or worth, it's actually a clever strategy for uni students.

Yes, volunteering is another way to meet new students and other people in the community. And it's a satisfying experience knowing that you're giving something back to local organisations.

But if you want a fantastic way to build your employability skills and networks while you're studying (which you do), try volunteering. It's something you'll want to put on your résumé too.

So there you go, a few ideas to help you make the most of your uni experience. There are others, you just need to be open to them. Be social, be strategic and most of all, be yourself!

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