Starting uni during uncertain times.

Starting uni during uncertain times

Whether it’s your first year, or your last, starting uni can come with its difficulties. This year as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be hard to feel a sense of excitement while we wait to see what the beginning of uni might look like for us. This can be daunting, but here are some tips to help you cope and make the most out of this important time.

Embrace flexibility

‘Pivot’ has become my new favourite word this year. In the light of uncertainty, we need to be ready to shift gears in an instant. One week, you might find yourself having coffee on-campus with friends, and the next you’re bound to the screen inside your home. Being prepared for this reality can help it not be so overwhelming—acceptance, and a positive attitude is key to coping. Look at the bright side, I mean, who doesn’t love a good zoom session in their pyjamas? In a pandemic, it’s a guaranteed judgement-free zone.

Access all the resources/help available online

The possibility of a lockdown can seem isolating, and you might feel like you’re given the short end of the stick. Don’t worry, there’s help out there and you won’t be left alone. There will be an abundance of resources and support made available to you to help you succeed, no matter where you might find yourself. Make sure you research and find out what assistance is accessible during these times. Should you find yourself facing hardship, DUSA’s SASS (student advocacy and support services) offer a range of services that can help with both academic and personal matters including financial aid.

Visit the link to find out more: https://www.dusa.org.au/get-help/advocacy-welfare

Maintain and develop connections

In a zoom? Why not turn your screen on and forge a face-to-face interaction with your peers? Connections are especially important throughout your uni journey, especially during isolating times. DUSA, Deakin’s student association hosts a range of online activities including their exclusive online social chat nights, online trivia games and online sporting and gaming sessions that can get you involved within the comforts of your home.

DUSA’s clubs and societies exists to get you connected to like-minded people, and many of them are running individual online initiatives such as competitions including movie sessions and their own trivia and games nights. So, get involved, build long-lasting friendships, and keep in touch with your community even during difficult times. There are always alternative ways that will enable you to live out the uni experience that you envisioned and join DUSA.

You can purchase, or renew your DUSA membership online via the link below:

https://www.dusa.org.au/join-us