University of Tasmanian campuses have been buzzing with new students for Orientation Week

Student numbers across many categories have increased compared to last year as orientation week at UTAS starts to wrap up. The words of advice for new students.

Marine Antarctic Science 3rd year student Grace Oxenham, Director Tasmania Engagement Leanne Arnott and Bachelor of Social Work 3rd year student Annabelle Smith at UTAS Sandy Bay Campus. Picture: Chris Kidd

Ahead of classes starting, University of Tasmania (UTAS) students have been getting their bearings and having some fun as part of orientation week.

Students have been taking part in course introductions, enrolment sessions and campus tours while also being offered free live music, entertainment and games.

Annabelle Smith is a third-year Bachelor of Social Work student and a resident at John Fisher College.

“I’m kind of just helping the team up here facilitate events for new residents, so the ones who have moved from interstate who are kind of experiencing that first-time move of their own,” Ms Smith said.

“I’ve been helping with tours of the campus and the city as well as organising friend-making events and other things as part of orientation week.”

Marine Antarctic Science 3rd year student Grace Oxenham, Director Tasmania Engagement Leanne Arnott and Bachelor of Social Work 3rd year student Annabelle Smith at UTAS Sandy Bay Campus. Picture: Chris Kidd

Ms Smith said she moved to UTAS for study from a small rural town in New South Wales.

“For me, Hobart is a big city, and the environment at the university is conducive to my learning and making new friends,” she said.

“I have a pretty small cohort and have made friends easily. There’s probably not one part about UTAS that I wouldn’t rave about to someone.”

Marine Antarctic science student Grace Oxenham urged those newly enrolled at UTAS to “just jump in”.

“Fully embrace being able to work and study in an amazing area with amazing people and amazing teachers,” Ms Oxenham said.

“You’ve just got to dive in with both feet and enjoy it.”

UTAS Director of Tasmania Engagement Leanne Arnott said the number of interstate students had increased by 21 per cent this year.

The number of Tasmanian school leavers and adult learners has also increased.

“The study areas they choose is varied; however, degrees with a marine or maritime focus consistently attract interstate students, and health-related degrees, for example, the Bachelor of Nursing, are also popular with interstate students,” Ms Arnott said.

“The record number of school leavers enrolling from interstate is great news for the university, for the community and for the state.

“Our goal is for every student to have an education that will equip them with the skills for the future while making new and life-long friends and connections along the way.”

Originally published as University of Tasmanian campuses have been buzzing with new students for Orientation Week