Life from High School to Uni

I began my journey at university this year, fresh out of high school, slightly clueless and perhaps a little broke. Uni can be hard, it’s really different to high school. It certainly took me a while to get used to the transition. Here’s my insider view of some of the main differences, and how my golden tip helps me keep on top of it all.

Going from high school to university is like transitioning from Year 10 to Year 11. You have less subjects, you are more independent with schoolwork and subjects become more content-heavy. You are expected to apply your knowledge instead of just memorising things. It’s completely different from school in that you don’t wear a uniform, you might sit next to a different person every day and you carry an indescribably larger workload.

University, unlike high school, is an experience that will challenge you, inspire you and most of all, reward you. You’ll meet people from all over the world and get to do things you might never have envisioned. And at the end of all that hard work, you can marvel at all that you have accomplished no matter if you’re at the finish line of your journey or the beginning of the next chapter.  

A slightly baby faced me at the start of Year 12

I recently finished my first semester at UQ in the Bachelor of Health Science program, and in ten years I see myself as an ER doctor.

Although I’m a full-time student with four subjects per semester, I only had uni classes three days a week in Semester 1. Don’t be fooled though, these subjects are different to school. They comprise pre-readings, post-work, general revision and in some cases, weekly quizzes and online tasks. This Semester I have classes five days a week.

In high school I felt as if I didn’t have to put in as much effort to succeed. I showed up to school, went to class and went home, all with help from teachers. At university, you need to work independently. You have to manage your readings, what textbooks you need to buy and which assignments are due when. But that's the beauty of the challenge, you feel proud of what you're achieving and how you're maturing. 

So what’s my golden tip for students? Hand write your notes! It’s been proven that hand-writing your notes can boost your performance as a student. It’s up to you which approach you take. You can write your notes from lecture slides the night before and make extra mini notes in class, or write all your notes in class. I prefer the latter, and I swear to you it makes a difference compared to relying on typed notes.

A much happier version of myself, after having completed the UQPMS Amazing Race.
(Spot the ER Doctor set!)

University is nothing to fear and there is always going to be someone in the same boat as you. Do you feel really young? I guarantee there is someone younger than you. Feeling stressed about the exam? So are countless others! I encourage everyone going to uni to embrace the experience with open arms, to make friends, and to engage with what the university has to offer.

University has its highs and its lows, but I could not be happier with the choice I have made. Whether you’re at uni to make friends, to study or to take part in other awesome - activities, there’s an unforgettable experience for everyone.

 

 

 


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