It’s up to you

One of the biggest changes from school to university is the increase in personal freedom and responsibility. At university, managing your time and keeping track of your timetable and assignments is up to you.

Professors won’t chase you if you miss a class or forget to submit work. This freedom can be refreshing, but it also means you must organise and motivate yourself. ANU has a student diary with semester dates, exam periods and an assignment organiser to help you manage your workload. Also giving you room to focus are lots of great libraries and study spaces around the campus to study in!

Prepare for learning to evolve

The approach to teaching and learning at university varies and often changes depending on your chosen degree and progress. In high school, learning usually happens in a structured class environment with regular tests and assignments. But university offers a variety of teaching styles and class settings, including lectures, and practical tutorials held in labs and other specialist facilities. Assessments can also take many forms, such as essays, group projects, presentations and exams. These differences require you to adapt and develop new study strategies. At university, it’s also good to know that the goal is not just to pass exams but to engage deeply with the material, think critically and develop skills that will help you apply what you learn in future career settings.

More time between classes

Looking to start a new sport or hobby? At university, there is more free time between and after classes to explore your interests and manage your time. With fewer contact hours, you will spend less time in class and more time learning independently. Your life will be more flexible than it is during high school, but you will also need this flexibility to manage your study schedule and other commitments like a job. Having more free time will also give you opportunities to join clubs and societies and take part in social events in your student residence and on campus, all of which will widen your social circles and help you meet new friends.

Study what you love

One of the most exciting aspects of university life is the opportunity to study what you love. While you may have to study some mandatory courses as part of your degree, you can also fill it out with a broad range of elective subjects – from fine art to zoology. This allows you to dive deeply into areas that interest you most. Unlike high school, you will have access to world-leading academics and cutting-edge research in your chosen field and get to specialise. The ability to build a degree that meets your interests makes university the perfect place for fuelling your passion and preparing you for a career in your area of choice.

Build your independence

Moving out of home to attend university offers numerous benefits that contribute to personal growth. Living in a shared house or student accommodation helps you learn to manage your budget, providing a great lesson in financial responsibility. Living with other students also creates a built-in support network and plenty of social opportunities – perfect for making new friends and feeling connected.