Sarah Joy Greenwood

Fourth year, Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Management
Geelong Campus at Waurn Ponds

The thing I have found challenging about uni is staying motivated all the time in balancing work, studies and life in general. It can really put you to the test, but if you look at the big picture and have the drive for what you want to be, it all seems to work out.

When I first started uni my initial struggle into uni life was moving away from home in Ballarat at age 17. This was scary and limiting as I was not able to attend many Orientation activities due to age and transportation restrictions, but I got by. I actually got to know my way around from catching the bus and walking; it helps to build strength and belief in yourself when you have to learn to do everything on your own. It also builds your independence, and I think has helped me cope with the more difficult times at uni.  

I still made plenty of friends and joined in other things. I have been involved with the Host Program and Open Day for two years and have done some short courses with friends, which was lots of fun. Deakin is very rewarding; it is flexible and accommodating to individual needs, there are so many useful resources and it is a great environment to study in.

My advice would be to give yourself time to adjust! I would also suggest that you should get out there and do some work experience. You learn so much in the work force and this helped me reassure myself that I actually know a lot and can contribute to a business with a fresh perspective from the skills and knowledge I learned at uni. I would also say: don’t underestimate the power of contacts, networks, friends and teachers at uni, they come in very useful!