Have you graduated from high school and about to start university life in Australia? You will be stepping into a vastly different education environment and a whole new culture to learn and adapt to.
In this blog, one of our previous graduates, Sugam Gautam from Myanmar, will share about a typical day and week at university, what to expect in your new learning environment and study advice.
Sugam Gautam
Degree Transfer Program, University of Adelaide College
Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science), University of Adelaide
1. What was a typical day like at Adelaide College?
I would wake up as early as 6am. After getting ready and having a quick breakfast, I would leave home around 7:30am, catch a bus to the campus and attend my first class at 8am.
In the morning, I attended two classes that each ran for about two hours. I had to juggle classes between 2 campus locations – Grenfell Street (Adelaide College) and North Terrace (University of Adelaide) as the Degree Transfer Program was a blended teaching system between the two.
At midday, I would take a one-hour lunch break. Then my whole afternoon would be occupied at the university with practical work. After that, I attended evening classes at the College from 5pm to 7pm.
On some days, I would have more breaks, usually for one to two hours. During these breaks, I would grab food or coffee, hang out at Rundle Mall, walk around Torrens River, hang out with friends at the College lounge or attend meetings and events at the Social Club.
2. What other activities would you have during the rest of the week?
I had to manage my time wisely to stay on top of my studies while also supporting myself financially. This meant balancing part-time work with assignments, social activities and finding time to relax.
Usually on the weekends, I went to my job if I was rostered, completed my assignments or studies and watched pre-recorded lectures that I had missed. However, if I was on top of my studies and did not have any work shifts, I usually spent time with my friends at the beach, roaming the city or gathering at each other’s houses to cook and watch movies.
3. Are you part of any clubs or societies?
I was a member, Treasurer and Student Lounge Monitor of Adelaide College’s Social Club. The Social Club was mainly focused on bringing together international students and helping them engage with each other through various activities and events. Students could network with people from different cultures and there were opportunities to develop soft skills through volunteering.
I worked with the Club Coordinator in planning, budgeting and event preparation. We brainstormed new activities that students could engage in outside class and feel accepted and welcomed.
When I transitioned to the University of Adelaide, I became a member of their Community Service Volunteer program.
4. What was the classroom learning environment like at Adelaide College?
The classroom learning environment encouraged students to actively engage in all activities. It was designed to help them grow academically and build confidence and other skills (e.g. communication and problem-solving) through group discussions, team projects and presentations.
The teachers were incredibly supportive and approachable. An advantage of studying at the College was that the classes were smaller so we could get additional support from our teachers to clarify concepts we found difficult to understand. My classmates were also very encouraging and supportive.
5. How do you balance all your responsibilities?
It can get hard to juggle many things at a time especially when there are multiple assignments and exam pressure. Therefore, I prioritise what’s more important and which project or task is due first.
6. What skills do you believe have been the most important to develop at university? Why?
Communication skills, social skills, time management, self-discipline and professional skills such as research, teamwork and networking have been the most important skills to develop. They will be applicable and useful throughout your study life and career.
7. Now that you’re at the University of Adelaide, has your typical day or week changed? If so, how?
Since transitioning to the University of Adelaide, my weekly routine has changed. I have less classes since I do not have any additional College classes to attend.
I have been able to fit my schedule into 2-3 days which leaves more time for me during the week to study, complete assignments or relax. I still stay in touch with the Social Club Coordinator and staff from the College and help with their events and activities when I have time. I miss my days at the College and being involved in the Social Club. I have made many beautiful memories throughout my time there.
8. What is your advice for students thinking of coming to study in Australia?
Studying abroad is a huge step, and I know it can feel both exciting and intimidating at the same time. If you’re considering coming to study in Australia, choose a field in which you not only want to pursue a career but also offers good opportunities for growth and development.
University life is not just about academics, it’s also about personal and professional growth. Problems will come and unexpected things will happen. You will learn how to face them. If anything goes wrong, there’s always a solution. You can always ask for help. Be open to learning new things and meeting new people.
Most importantly, enjoy your time in Australia! This is a unique opportunity. Don’t let university life just be about assignments, exams and jobs. Take time to experience new things and have fun. Go out and enjoy the local culture, travel around, try new foods and experience the natural beauty of Australia.
The University of Adelaide College is a pathway provider to Adelaide University. Learn more about how our College Services Advisors team are here to help you settle into the College and offer you any academic or career guidance you may need.