Starting university can be both exciting and overwhelming. There is so much to take in new friends, unfamiliar coursework, and campuses that may feel like a small city. It’s your journey, so take it at your own pace.
Hi, I’m Tegan O’Connor, a Psychology student at QUT and the President of Get Psyched! for 2025. As someone heading into their fifth year of a three-year degree, I want to share a few tips that might help you navigate the journey.
Take It at Your Own Pace
First, let’s address the unspoken truth of university life: it doesn’t always go as planned. I’m heading into my fifth year and honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. Life happens. Whether it’s health challenges, unexpected personal circumstances, or even realising you just need a break, it’s okay to take more time.
University isn’t a race. Rushing through to graduate within a set timeframe can sometimes lead to burnout or missed opportunities. Instead, focus on what works best for you. If that means studying part-time for a semester or taking a gap year to recharge, embrace it. You’ll graduate with the same degree as everyone else, but on a timeline that feels right for you.
Remember, success isn’t measured by how fast you finish, but by how much you grow along the way.
Join a Club (or two, or ten!)
University isn’t just about lectures and assignments—it’s a whole world of opportunities waiting for you. One of the best ways to make the most of your time is by joining clubs. Whether you want to connect with people in your faculty, explore a hobby, or immerse yourself in a new culture; there is something for everyone.
If you’re looking to connect with others in your faculty, check out faculty-based clubs like AMPed, BAMSA, or BiOMS (There are too many to list!). These clubs are a fantastic way to network with peers in your field and gain valuable insights into your future career.
For Psychology students, I’d recommend checking out Get Psyched! (Unbiased opinion here, I promise!).
And if hobbies are more your thing, there are plenty of options to explore. Thrill-seeker? Try Snow riders. A dancer? Check out RADS or even Burlesque. Book lover? You’ll find like-minded people in one of the book clubs.
For those interested in connecting with different cultures, clubs like the Malaysian Society can help you experience and celebrate diversity.
Can’t find a club you love? Why not create your own! University is the perfect time to explore your passions and bring people together around a shared interest.
Being part of a club isn’t just about building your resume (though it helps); it’s about building connections. You’ll meet people who share your passions, and these friendships often last long after graduation. Plus, many clubs offer discounts or perks for their members, it’s a win-win.
Be Social: Live Your Life
University is about more than just studying; it’s about living. While it’s important to stay on top of your coursework, don’t let it consume your entire life. Go out and meet people, say yes to spontaneous plans, and make the most of this time.
Being social doesn’t necessarily mean going to every party or event (unless that’s your thing). It could be as simple as striking up a conversation with someone in your lecture, grabbing coffee with a classmate, or joining a study group. You’ll be surprised how much richer your university experience becomes when you build meaningful connections.
Remember to explore your campus. University is a unique time where you have the freedom and flexibility to try new things. Whether it’s discovering the best study spots on campus, attending events, or simply hanging out with friends – make time for what brings you joy.
Balance is Key
As you navigate through your first year, remember that balance is essential. It’s easy to fall into the trap of spending all your time either buried in textbooks or constantly socialising, but neither extreme is sustainable.
Plan your time wisely. Dedicate specific hours to study, but don’t forget to schedule breaks for yourself. Whether it’s a quick walk, a workout, or a coffee catch-up, these moments will help you recharge.
At the same time, don’t over-commit. It’s tempting to sign up for every club, attend every event, and take on extra responsibilities, but it’s okay to say no. Prioritise what matters most to you and ensure you leave room for downtime.
Your Journey, Your Rules
Finally, embrace that this is your journey. Everyone’s university experience looks different, and that’s a good thing. Some people graduate in three years; others take five or more. Some love clubs and events, while others thrive with quiet study sessions and solo pursuits.
What matters is that you make choices that align with your goals and values. Listen to advice, but don’t feel pressured to follow someone else’s path. Whether it’s taking a little longer to finish your degree, diving into the social scene, or finding joy in the little things, make your time at university uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
University is a transformative experience, filled with challenges and triumphs. You’ll learn more about yourself in these years than you might expect. Take it at your own pace, explore all the opportunities available, and most importantly, live your life to the fullest.
No matter where you are in your journey, be kind to yourself, and make the most of every moment!
Welcome to this new chapter—it’s going to be unforgettable.
