Transition from school to university

It can be a daunting prospect to go from high school to university, but this site will arm you with information to help you prepare to make that jump.

If you’re still concerned you can:

• Read below about how our current students made the transition
• Speak to some current students at Info Day and find out first-hand about their experiences.
• Attend the Getting started: transition from school to university" mini-lecture at Info Day.
• Attend Orientation (O-Week)

From school to uni: Our student stories

Dom

"I moved from the country to the city for university, leaving behind many friends and arriving in a place where I hardly knew anyone. In this daunting new environment, I found that the best thing you can do is open up to new experiences and bring new people into your life. Uni gives you immeasurable ways to expand your world - all you have to do is reach out for them."

Bianca

"Transitioning from school to university was an exciting yet difficult experience. When I first arrived at Sydney University I didn’t know anyone and as a result I felt overwhelmed and a bit intimidated. I discovered that the only way for me to really enjoy university and take advantage of all Sydney has to offer was to become involved. After joining some clubs, making new friends and finding employment within the university I began to feel apart of the fabric, that I belonged, engraved into the sandstone, and that was the best decision I ever made. Transitioning can be scary but to get the best out of university you must become involved. If you give, you never know what you will receive!"

Janice

"The transition from school to university was quite liberating. No more school bells, no more attendance rolls, no teacher telling you to do your homework and no school uniforms. Now you are in charge of your own education – which, for me, meant I needed to get a watch so I wasn’t late for class!"

Peter

"Initially I found uni daunting because I was suddenly anonymous. But I should have realised then that every first year would probably feel the same. So make a habit of saying hi to people sitting next to you and try to get to know one new person each class when you start, because you'll probably meet your best friend there. I did!"

Gladys

"I couldn't have survived the massive jump from high to school to uni without getting involved. Join as many clubs and societies as possible, even the most random ones (you never know, you might enjoy them!) Don't forget to keep an open mind, and a permanent smile–that's the best way to make friends."

Lyndsay

"Success at university is a result of ‘getting out there’ because you want to. Independence, good time management, and an open mind are important for adjusting to university life. Get involved in one (or more) of over two hundred clubs and societies – you definitely meet interesting new friends while playing sport or taking time to appreciate Captain Planet."

Peggy

"At high school, you probably get the notes when you go to class. At uni, you need to be prepared, this may include bringing the lecture notes with you to the lecture, check "Sydney eLearning" to see if it's there. eLearning will probably be a new concept to you, I can explain it to you...or you can log on right now and find out!"