Bronwyn Mawbey

Honors, Nursing

Geelong Waterfront Campus

'Ask lots of questions, be eager and be involved in all aspects of university life. These are friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.'

Originally from Hobart, I relocated to Victoria to study at Deakin and live at the student residences. Since commencing my studies and living on campus grounds I have met many friends. I also found Deakin’s website to be a fantastic resource along with the friendly staff on the phones. This adventure is something I always wanted to do since going to a career show in high school and picking up a Deakin handbook.

Learning to be independent with organising my own study schedule was challenging at first but well worth the time once assignments are handed in on time and marks finalised. University life for me is all about organising time so that I have a study and life balance. That way, the challenge of the study load does not appear at all overwhelming. The staff have always been friendly and eager to help, and encouraged my questions on material and assignments which helped me feel right at home in classes.

The many friends met in classes through various group activities helped me ease into university life. I made further friends at university through volunteering at the Deakin University Student Association (DUSA). Through this, I helped run events such as quiz nights, beach parties and BBQs. This is a lot of fun and a great way to meet more people. I have also volunteered as an Orientation Week host and helped ease the transition for new students through orientation tours and get-to-know-you games. Deakin is a friendly environment and a university that gives great care and inspiration to its students.

My placements in Geelong as a student nurse have all been fantastic. Through this I have gained confidence and skills that have strengthened who I am as an individual. The staff at Deakin have also helped me grow a greater passion for my career choice. I look forward to my future career knowing Deakin staff and skills are behind me all the way. The best piece of advice I would give to a commencing student is to work hard and find time to enjoy your university years because it does not last forever. Ask lots of questions, be eager and be involved in all aspects of university life. These are friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.