I should probably kick things off by introducing myself. My name is Ashleigh and I’m currently a member of the Student Communications team at CQUniversity. However, once upon a time I was a young university student, fumbling through the maze of systems, courses, buildings, and the all-important Key Dates.
Here’s my advice - make note of the key uni dates, and actually apply for a scholarship!
Let me take you back to the year 2008. This was the year I started my Professional Communication degree at CQUniversity. As a 17 year old, fresh out of high school, I remember feeling excited, nervous, eager, and confused about university. I usually pride myself on being organised; however, if I said my first term was easy and I was totally on top of things, I think I’d be lying.
There are so many forms and dates to remember. Census date, CAF forms, Last Day to Add, not to mention actually enrolling and organising your class timetable! I was officially overwhelmed.
Get to know the Key Dates
I probably can’t stress the importance of understanding the CQUni Key Dates enough, and I don’t just mean knowing when they are, but knowing what they mean. Before you do anything, make yourself familiar with the Key Dates– write them in your diary, get yourself a big wall planner, or even write them on your fridge (I may have done that), whatever will help you remember them. Then spend some time reading through the Important Dates explained information sheet so you know exactly what each date means. Doing this will make you feel more prepared and ready to tackle the term!
Don’t be scared of Scholarships
While I was busy trying to navigate the key dates, enrol in units, and prepare for lectures, I missed out on A LOT of opportunities, such as scholarships. You might be intimidated by the word scholarship, and if you’re anything like me, you might think there is no way you would even be considered. I pretty much gave up before I even tried.
If I can pass on a piece of wisdom here, it’s that you should not be scared of applying for a scholarship, and trust me, there are so many available. If you need another incentive to apply for a scholarship, just think of the financial benefit and it also looks really good on your resume!
So to sum up - make yourself familiar with the Key Dates (if you haven’t already), and don’t be scared of scholarships.
All the best!
Ash
I am a CQUni alumnus, who graduated back in 2010. Straight after graduating, I took a job in media, and later returned to CQUni working full-time as Student Communications Assistant. I remember all too well the panic fuelled ‘all-nighters’, getting lost on campus, confusion over systems, and the general feeling of being unsure. I'm excited to share my experiences and provide some insights into university life.