Throughout my time during high-school, I often felt that it didn’t really matter what I wanted, and that university was just another compulsory milestone in life in which we must inevitably conquer. However, as I began my education at the University of New South Wales, I soon realised the true purpose of what it meant to gain a tertiary education.
- Some of the most valuable lessons occur outside of the classroom
One of the biggest misconceptions we may face during our time in university is that what we learn during classes and lectures is what we are and should be. However, what I failed to realise was that university wasn’t just a school – it is a thriving community. University is a great time to expand your mind and understanding. It’s the time to discover (pardon the pun) life after the HSC!
- Learn and prepare for your career
There is a solid understanding among high school students that university is a place to learn skills relevant to your future career. This is very true – however, as stated before, university is a time of exploration. Many university students change majors or degrees because they find a new goal. Many others enter a degree in the hopes of achieving a WAM (Weighted Average Mark) to get into their first preference of degrees. University is a unique time of preparation and exploration – it’s a place of learning, not just about the degree you’re doing, but about what you wish to do in the future.
- Getting your first preference is not the only pathway to your goals
While most students see university as a pathway, do not be discouraged about missing the ATAR requirement for your first preference or choosing an alternative pathway. There are many ways of getting to where you want to be. Take your time and ensure that you always have the drive to take the necessary steps in order to achieve your goals.
