University of New South Wales, UNSW generic tertiary education, international students, study, books, laptop, reading, youth. Wednesday 23rd March 2011 AFR photo Louie Douvis job# 1443388879
BEFORE the start of the new term universities and TAFEs often run an orientation week or O-Week, to help new students familiarise themselves with what's on offer as well as help students get settled.
O-Week usually offers many different activities during the week such as campus and library tours, information stalls and booths, club and society demonstrations and campus entertainment.
It also provides students with a great opportunity to investigate clubs and societies: sporting, political, musical or general interest.
These campus clubs and societies are a good place to meet new people and make friends as you will share common interests with other students in these groups.
New experiences may bring mixed emotions as you are learning to adjust to a new environment.
If you start to feel overwhelmed take some time out, perhaps find the coffee shop or a nice place to sit and relax.
At university and TAFE you will face expected and unexpected challenges, but chances are you will have lots of fun along the way.
Here are some tips from au.reachout.com that might help you get the most out of your university and TAFE experience:
● Don't worry: If you don't have a group of friends within the first couple of weeks; it might take a little longer for you, but eventually you will team up with people you like.
● Form a study group: It is a great way to both make friends and learn.
● Ask people for help: most people are more than willing to help out wherever they can.
● Try not to allow yourself to become stressed out: research ways to manage stress and relax.
● Talk to someone if you aren't coping: Lifeline (131 114) and Kids Helpline (1800 551 800) both have counsellors who are available 24 hours. Your tutor, friends or a counsellor may also be good to talk to.
● It is OK if you feel overwhelmed in the first few weeks. But, if this feeling continues you must talk to someone about how you are feeling and not let it be your entire uni or TAFE experience.
● Details: On this and many other topics visit au.reachout.com.