First Year Check List
WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW IN MY FIRST YEAR?!!..... A LOT!!
The first year of university can be a challenge for
all students. It can be even harder for a student who has relocated
to the city to study, or who has other additional burdens.
Gaining scholarship or grant from Student Equity and Disability Services can be a big help financially,
but there is still more to do as an independent learner.
For tips on how you are going and what you should have organised
by now – look at the following checklists. If there is
anything that you have missed, try to do it as it will make
the rest of your first year of study a lot easier.
** This checklist has been created based on the Griffith University First Year Experience program checklist.
Click here to download Checklist (pdf)
Before First Semester Commences
- I have enrolled in all of my classes for the Semester and checked that all my enrolment details are correct.More
- I have paid any fees or charges. (Contact your Faculty/School office if you are concerned that anything is outstanding) More
- I know how to get to uni and where to park / catch public transport to. More
- I have been
to O Week and participated in all the Orientation Programs
relevant to me at my campus.
- I have familiarised myself with where things are around my campus. More
- I have explored the student clubs and societies that are of interest to me. More
- I have some pens and note pads for my classes. More
- I have applied for scholarships and grants provided by Student Equity and Disability Services may be eligible for. More
First Week
- I
have the course outlines for all of my subjects. These
can either be obtained from your lecturer in detailed
form, or online.
More - I know the
exact time and location of all my classes.
- I have a copy of the academic calendar showing critical dates. More
- I have my student ID card. More
- I have read the ITS student guide, my Swinburne computer access is set up and I know how to access my student email account. More
- I know where the library is and how to best utilise its resources. More
- I know what text books or equipment I need to buy (these will be specified by your lecturer/tutor) and where I can buy them. More
- I have familiarised myself with My.Swinburne and the applications available through it. More
- I know where to locate the Student Information Centre on my campus. More
- I have met some other students in my course.
- I know where to find the student lounges, study areas and cafeterias.
First Month
- I have all the textbooks and equipment that are required for my subjects. More
- I know what Student Services are available to me and where to locate them. More
- I have met some students with similar interests to me. More
- I have worked out a personal time-table incorporating time for my study, family, employment, recreation and social time. More
- I understand my study commitments (assignments, projects, exams) and when they need to be submitted.
- I am notified if I have been successful for a scholarship or grant provided by the Student Equity and Disability Services.
First Semester
- I have met all my lecturers and tutors.
- I have sought
feedback on my study assessments to identify where I
can improve and know where I can find further study
support.
- I have formed study groups with other students.
- I am involved
in some extra-curricular activities at Swinburne (clubs,
volunteer work) or outside.
- I can find my way to most buildings around the campus. More
First Year
- I am happy with my study progress and what I have chosen to study. I know where to find support in relation to this. More
- I have made some friends at Swinburne.
- I have developed
a course plan with my intended career choices in mind.
- I have looked into part-time employment or volunteer work in my area of study to further enhance my post-study career opportunities. More
- I have confirmed
my re-enrolment and know when study commences next year.