Students start at UQ with a helping hand

Starting university can be a daunting experience, but The University of Queensland provides a range of programs and assistance to help students ease their way in to a new lifestyle.

Student Living and Life Skills Manager, Ms Yonna Cowan said the Student Services division offered free services to all UQ students, covering areas including:

• learning advice
• international student advice
• disability support and advice
• confidential counselling
• transition support for new students
• student leadership programs
• accommodation, tenancy and life skills advice
• multi-faith chaplaincy

“We also organise events and offer one-on-one appointments, workshops and online resources,” she said.

“We recognise that university life is a time to develop resilience, independence and a range of skills, but we also understand that students might need help and support through this process,” Ms Cowan said.

UQ Graduate Nicole Garofano said she would have struggled to complete her Master of Development Practice degree without support from the Student Services team.

Ms Garofano, who started at UQ in 2012, said she had a reality check at a Student Services presentation in Orientation Week.  

“I realised that my knowledge was going to require a ramping up to keep up with the demands of University submissions and the expectations of markers,” Ms Garofano said.

“Working my way through my program, I thankfully received some amazing advice from Student Services.

“Advice came in many forms, including a refresher on the terms of grammar, how to structure essays, and how to deal with exams, as well as the personal counsel provided by the caring counselling team.”

“If you are just starting out your university experience, take my tip – make time for Student Services. You will not be disappointed,” Ms Garafano said.

“Perhaps you will reflect when you graduate, as I have, on the benefit of this great service available to all UQ students, while considering how valuable an investment a trip to 21D (Student Services) was from time to time as you journeyed through your UQ studies.”

Ms Garafano’s detailed reflection on Student Services can be found here.

Student Services offices are located at the St Lucia, Ipswich and Gatton campuses with staff also visiting the Herston campus, where they provide numerous, free services and programs.

Media: Madelene Flanagan m.flanagan@uq.edu.au or + 61 7 3365 8525