Studying effectively
Some people seem to be natural students while others have to work hard at it. But everyone can use a little help, especially when moving into a completely new study environment where the expectations are very different.
The Student Learning Centre helps students adjust to the academic demands of university life and develop techniques for more effective study. Sign up for a specific program or just get some advice.
Trained staff provide advice on such issues as:
- taking lecture notes
- problem solving & critical thinking
- writing essays
- making presentations
- conducting research
The Centre is located at Registry Annexe, Room B18. Phone (08) 8201 2518. Email: slc@flinders.edu.au.
If you have any questions about your rights and responsibilities as a student or if you need other academic assistance, whether academic or personal, contact the Flinders University Student Association .
Keeping perspective
The many competing demands on your time require balance. Keeping fit, eating well, getting adequate rest is important. If you need assistance creating the right balance in your life seek advice. Health, Counselling and Disability Services or Flinders One Sport and Fitness are good places to start.
If you are unsure about your career path and the course you have chosen, talk with the Careers and Employer Liaison Centre (CELC). It is important to remember that your university studies are a passport to future opportunities. From the early stages of your career, explore where your studies can take you. CELC provides a wide range of specialized services and programs according to your year of study, designed to assist students in their career development.
Staying healthy
Starting uni is an exciting time but it can also be a stressful time and if you push yourself too hard and don't look after yourself, things can start falling apart. Just as importantly, if you get sick - or feel like you're not coping - do something about it.
The University's Health Service offers a wide range of confidential support and referral services, including medical, and massage. Counsellors can help you develop skills such as time management, coping with exam anxiety, managing relationships and other personal issues.
Flinders One Sport and Fitness not only offers you the opportunity to stay healthy with its many exercise options, it does this with the added benefits that being active provides such as a great means of stress release and a chance to meet and mix with other Flinders students. Flinders One Fitness also have a visiting masseuse and physiotherapist.
Tips from students
Many students have experienced transition difficulties and negotiated them successfully.
‘Become familiar with the uni like the Library and the Plaza etc as it makes you feel more comfortable if you know your way around the uni.' Calvin
‘Be prepared to study - uni is easier (and less stressful) than Year 12 but getting good grades makes you feel better about being at uni and makes you strive to do better which will enable you for some good scholarships if you apply for Honours.’ Simone
‘Be prepared to be proactive in your own study and to take matters into your own hands. Know where to go for help and who to ask if you have questions. Don't stress, it's not that hard!’ Josh
‘I think you just have to push yourself a bit in the first couple of weeks. It is hard to make friends and meet new people but once you get past that barrier it gives you a real confidence boost.’ Jen
‘I found it tough at first. I really missed home ... It was also hard to find my way around but now I feel pretty settled. I am glad I rode through it.’ Mark
‘I hated the first few weeks ... I knew no one, I didn't know where my lectures were ... I kept getting lost and I wasn't even too sure about the course, now I love it. I am really getting into it and I can see how I can make this degree work for me.’ Rebecca
