Navigating post-graduation: A comprehensive guide for international students in Australia 

Many of the international students I’m friends with are either going home or staying back to continue their journey. Whatever the reasons are, the transition from being a full-time student to a working adult is exhilarating, yet the journey can be scary and bumpy at the start.  At one point, I was so lost that I thought maybe going home to my loved ones and … Continue reading Navigating post-graduation: A comprehensive guide for international students in Australia 

Replacing bad habits with good ones – Vaping 

Shawn Achor once said, “Our daily decisions and habits have a huge impact upon both our levels of happiness and success.” As individuals with different personalities, our habits. integral parts of our daily lives, shape who we are. They are actions we perform consciously or unconsciously and, for most part, define our values and what we hold dear.  Habits can be defined as routines or … Continue reading Replacing bad habits with good ones – Vaping 

How I survived health challenges while studying

In 2023, I was a first-year student studying a Bachelor of Visual Communication Design. I started university relatively late, enrolling at the age of 23. At first, I felt somewhat behind my peers. After all, most people my age were already in their third or fourth year. However, as a self-confessed ‘overachiever’, I soon found myself enjoying the challenge of trying to ‘catch up’ to … Continue reading How I survived health challenges while studying

A guide to reflection spaces on and off campus. 

University life can be incredibly stressful. Whether you’re working on an assignment, gearing up for placement, or trying to balance work, social life, and your degree, it’s important to prioritise your mental health and give yourself time to pause and reflect. It might not seem like much, but allowing just ten minutes a day to sit and connect with yourself and your surroundings can make … Continue reading A guide to reflection spaces on and off campus. 

Who are the ALLY Network?

Pride Week 2024 is here! Join us as we celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and culture at the University of Newcastle. There’s plenty of fun events for everyone to get involved with, whether you’re a member of the community yourself, or an enthusiastic ally.  In the spirit of Pride, I spoke with Lucy Egan from the ALLY Network, who explained to me how the University honours … Continue reading Who are the ALLY Network?

The ultimate exam survival kit  

 The weeks roll by as you attend classes, presentations, and complete assessments. Late nights are spent studying in the uni library. Then before you know it, voila! It’s exam week. During the lead-up to exams, students experience a range of emotions, from gratitude to uncertainty about their expected grades. These feelings are completely normal.  Charles Colton, once said, “Examinations are formidable even to the best … Continue reading The ultimate exam survival kit  

How to get cheap stuff while studying 

In this cozzie-livs crisis, the savvy University of Newcastle student must negotiate a hellscape of bougie food trucks, supermarket duopolies and Neo-Dickensian landlords. But there are still bargains to be had, free swag to be liberated, and maybe, just maybe, you might have some coin left over for the fun stuff.   Ok let’s cut to it – who’s hungry?    If you’re struggling with grocery bills, … Continue reading How to get cheap stuff while studying 

How to maximise your uni experience

The age-old saying “all work and no play” holds a timeless truth, especially in the context of university life. While academic pursuits are undoubtedly crucial, a well-rounded university experience means more than just hitting the books. Engaging in extracurricular activities is essential for holistic development, enriching your journey and shaping you into a multifaceted individual.  The University of Newcastle recognises the importance of balancing academic … Continue reading How to maximise your uni experience

A comprehensive guide to off-campus accommodation

  My personal experience When I started uni last year, I received an early entry offer which came with guaranteed on-campus accommodation. This was perfect for me, as my family home is about 4 hours away from Newcastle and I did not have any friends or family who I could stay with in the area.    I thought it would be easy to receive an offer … Continue reading A comprehensive guide to off-campus accommodation

The end of university journey: Reflections, surprises and future plans. 

As I stand on the cusp of graduation, it’s inevitable to cast a retrospective glance over the years spent at university – a journey that was filled with ups and downs and invaluable lessons. Choosing a degree is no small decision; it’s a commitment to self-discovery and growth. When I embarked on this academic adventure, little did I know the transformative path that lay ahead.      … Continue reading The end of university journey: Reflections, surprises and future plans. 

Things to do over the summer break

Summer break is here, and it is time to take advantage and explore all the warm Aussie coast can offer! Coming from someone currently on a semester exchange in the freezing depths of Canada (which it makes up for in its beauty), I am fully committed to taking advantage of the warm weather and beaches down under when I return. Don’t know where to start? … Continue reading Things to do over the summer break