How to make the most of your student life in Adelaide

22 Nov 2016

Taking the next step after high school to further studies is something most students plan to undertake. After all, leaving school behind and entering tertiary education signifies a new chapter in your life as you pursue your dreams. It is a time to explore what your passions are and study hard to achieve good grades.

While these are sensible choices, it’s also important to realise that learning goes beyond the four walls of a classroom. Don’t get us wrong, getting good grades is important, but there’s so much more to life than being glued to your textbooks. This time of your life should be exciting and fun as you discover what student life is all about. We’ve put together a list about how you can make the most of your time in Adelaide as a student:

Choose the right education

Ask yourself ‘Is this really what you want to do?’ as you search through dozens of courses to find the perfect fit for you. It’s important to find out as much information about the academic course, the teaching faculty, the staff, facilities, and overall environment of the institution for you to get a sense of what it is all about.

Make new friends

This goes without saying, but making new friends is vital to your personal growth. Don’t feel worried if people don’t immediately warm to you. Try to take the first step and introduce yourself. What’s the worst that could happen, right? The great thing about studying and living in Adelaide is the number of new people you meet that come from all walks of life. You’ll get the opportunity to learn about new traditions, cultures, and food.

Participate in clubs and activities

If you feel a little shy about approaching people, join a club or participate in local activities organised by the institutions. It’s a great way to meet new and like-minded people while adding a few extra-curricular activities to your CV. Most institutions have several social and sporting clubs that are free and can range from performing arts and literature to sports and debating.

If you would like to take part in more activities, Study Adelaide has a Student Engagement Programme you can join. The programme provides a schedule of events and activities for international students throughout the year; for example, social events like sports days, wine education functions and regional trips, international student awards, and career advancement seminars/workshops.

Appreciate what the city offers

Take advantage of the free bicycles available for hire and cycle your way around the city. It’s a great way to explore and uncover the little secrets that make Adelaide a cultural hub. Adelaide is also a 20 minute drive away from local wildlife, so you’re never far away from native wonders like koalas and kangaroos. This multicultural city is also full of trendy new cafes and restaurants, or if you prefer to cook at home, head to the Adelaide Central Market to pick out some of the freshest produce.

Make use of resources

Institutions in Adelaide come with plenty of facilities available for students. Take the opportunity to use those resources while you’re studying. Some of the most basic services provided for students are academic counselling, student support and career counselling. Aside students can also use the amenities provided for free in the city, like the State Library, Museum and Art Gallery. And with the beauty of living in the digital age, everyone gets access to free Wi-Fi around the city. Fancy doing your school project outdoors in a park? Go right ahead!

Embrace the Aussie lifestyle

With its lush greenery and white sandy beaches, it’s no wonder the Aussies spend all their time outdoors. From surfing to snorkelling, there are plenty of water sports you can try your hand at in Adelaide. But if you’re not a fan of the water, you could take a nice walk around the city parks. If you time it just right, you could catch the sunrise or sunset which is absolutely breath-taking! Embracing the Australian lifestyle is all part and parcel of experiencing life as an international student.

Travel when you can

As students, we try to make the most out of life whether it’s joining after class activities or going out with friends. But it’s also important to take the opportunity to travel and discover your surroundings! If you’re on a budget, why not see what fun things the city has to offer? It’s one of the safest and more affordable cities in the country. Plus, it boasts fantastic weather, great music festivals, amazing natural landscapes and dozens of beaches – so you’ll never run out of places to visit!

Being a student can be stressful but also very rewarding. The important thing is to enjoy the journey. While trying to maximise your student experience, be open to new possibilities and take every opportunity you get to try new things. As the famous saying goes: As the saying goes: Life is what you make it!

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