Clara Ng

Forth year, Bachelor of Teaching (Primary)

Melbourne Burwood Campus

'The things I have done or experienced at university have changed the way I see life as a whole, and have motivated me to accomplish my future goals, which would make a difference to the community. University can be exciting or boring; it’s what you make it up to be.'

Coming to university from high school, I admit that the idea of ‘university’ can be quite daunting! The study system is so different from what I was used to for the last 12 years of school There are many things that are done independently, such as attending tutorials, lectures, doing assignments and seeking help.

In my first year, I attended Orientation Week and it was fantastic! Thefirst day started out with the Host Program, where I was able to meet students in my course. In fact, I enjoyed the program so much that in the subsequent year, I decided to get involved! This provided me the opportunity to share my experiences and knowledge with commencing students; they are able to meet with other students in the same course, are taken on a tour around the campus, and most importantly, enjoy themselves! I believe all students should enjoy university and the Host Program is a great starting point for students to get comfortable and enjoy university. I intend to be part of this program until my graduation!

I also attended many workshops relating to study skills, provided by the university. This gave me the chance to ask questions and feel more comfortable in my studies. I have attended workshops such as managing studies, essay writing, referencing, preparing for exams… they were very helpful for my studies. Besides study skills, there were other workshops including jobs, improving grammar, and even a drop-in centre to seek immediate help.

In the same year, I saw a noticeboard asking students to be involved in the Deakin University Student Association (DUSA). Volunteers at DUSA are the ‘frontline’; they run events organised by the student association. This includes Orientation Week, free food days, Comedy Night and more. Being part of DUSA has been the most rewarding experience in my university life. Not only do I learn many new skills, I also enjoy the company and working alongside fellow volunteers who are very friendly, funny and we share the same passion in volunteering and giving back to the community.

I encourage all students to get involved at Deakin. There are heaps of opportunities available and it will definitely make your university life more enjoyable. It is rewarding and exciting. The things I have done orexperienced at university have changed the way I see life as a whole, and have motivated me to accomplish my future goals, which would make a difference to the community. University can be exciting or boring;it’s what you make it up to be.

The things I have done or experienced at university have changed the way I see life as a whole, and have motivated me to accomplish my future goals, which would make a difference to the community. University can be exciting or boring; it’s what you make it up to be.