USC focuses on a positive first year experience
26 August, 2005
Research shows that the better the first year experience for new
university students, the more likely the student is of successfully
completing their studies.
With applications to study at university in 2006 now open, the
University of the Sunshine Coast has programs and services in place
to help next year's new students make a successful transition to
university life.
USC First Year Experience Officer, Tilly Hinton, works with
staff at the University to improve the first year experience for
all new students and increase the likelihood that they will
successfully complete their degrees.
"Research shows that the better the first year experience, the
more likely the student is of successfully completing their
studies," Ms Hinton said.
"This is why USC has made first year experience a priority."
Her role involves planning and supporting University initiatives
that create a positive first year experience for students.
With a background as a high school teacher, Ms Hinton knows how
difficult it can be for students to make a successful transition
from high school - or the workforce - to university study.
The crunch time for first years is at the four- and six-week
mark.
"This is when their first assignments are due and the reality of
university study hits home," Ms Hinton said.
Support begins in Orientation Week (O-Week) and Ms Hinton will
focus on student activities and support during O-Week 2006 to
ensure it is relevant to new students' needs and provides them with
a well-rounded initial experience of university life.
"We spoke with USC staff and students, and looked at best
practice of other universities, and as a result came up with a
number of innovations to the O-Week program."
Among these changes is the recruitment of a team of student
facilitators - continuing students who will facilitate group
discussions in which first year students can explore questions and
concerns about starting university.
"O-Week is really important. It is a chance for new students to
feel a part of the university, familiarise themselves with the
campus and find out what is expected of them - particularly from an
academic viewpoint," Ms Hinton said.
Induction sessions for students in each faculty were held as an
integral part of O-Week, designed to help students get started on
their academic journey.
"O-Week is also a time when students can start to form social
connections which are so important," Ms Hinton said.
"It is the kick-off for the social, fun side of university with
plenty of activities and events for students to get together and
meet other students.
According to Ms Hinton, support networks are vital if students
are to succeed at university.
"It is the support networks, both formal and informal, that give
students the strength to persevere, even when the going gets
tough," she said.
She said it is important for students to realise that they don't
have to go through the new university experience on their own, and
that the University has services in place to assist students in
making the transition to study.
"Our first year experience planning, support and strategies are
aimed at helping students through this crucial time and on the path
to study success and ultimately, graduation," Ms Hinton said.