Top 6 tips for new HSC graduates starting their next chapter

The end of Year 12 often marks the beginning of an exciting (yet daunting) experience. With university on the horizon, it’s easy to feel intimidated by the demanding schedules and newfound responsibilities that await you, but with a little forward planning, you can begin your next chapter with confidence.

High school graduates are about to embark on an exciting new adventure.Credit: iStock

For Emily Lee, an architecture student at the University of Sydney, finding accommodation that provides more than just a place to sleep has played a key role in both her personal and academic success.

“I was lucky enough to find a Scape [an all-inclusive, purpose-built student accommodation provider] right next to where my tutorials were being held, and it made a huge difference to my results,” she explains.

“I wasted less time travelling and spent more time studying and hanging out with friends. My building’s gym and bike locker facilities were also convenient and allowed me to focus on my wellbeing.”

Lee’s not the only student who credits her positive university experience to Scape’s accommodation offering. According to the 2024 Gen Z Wellbeing Index, students living in Scape properties enjoy better mental and physical health, get more sleep, feel more energised, eat healthier and are less likely to experience loneliness than the average young Australian.

As well as choosing the right place to live, Lee recommends the following tips for thriving — not just surviving — your first year of higher education.

1. Don’t skimp on sleep

“You need sleep to be productive,” Lee explains. “It also helps with my time management. When I sleep, I can get up early and sort my tasks for the day.”

If you can’t avoid a late-night study session, set yourself a hard bedtime. Young adults need at least seven hours of sleep a night, so schedule an alarm, write down any remaining tasks and then wind down with a warm shower or meditation.

2. Get organised

“Uni can be a real test of self-discipline and organisation, but it’s all about knowing your priorities,” Lee tips. “Look at your timetable and plan the right things for the right time. For example, if I’m close to a deadline, I’ll pull back on my social life a little. Once it’s done, I focus on other areas of my life.”

Keep track of key dates and events with a wall planner and jot down other tasks on sticky notes as they pop up. “A study group can also help,” Lee says. “It keeps you motivated and it also helps with burnout,” she says.

3. Cook at home

Cooking at home is an easy way to stay healthy and on-budget.Credit: iStock

Not only can take-out be expensive, but it’s also often packed with saturated fats and refined sugars, too. “Cooking at home is the healthier option, and it’s a great way to look after your body and budget,” Lee says.

According to the Gen Z Wellbeing Index, compared to other young Australians, Scape students are more likely to cook for themselves (likely due to the cooking workshops and kitchen facilities available). “When I cook at home, I eat more vegetables and get more vitamins in, which helps keep me energised.”

4. Move your body

“Physical exercise is so important,” Lee says. “It helps you destress, which in turn leads to increased productivity, and it can also improve your sleep.”

As well as taking advantage of the on-site gym in her accommodation, Lee enjoys cycling around the city for a workout with a view. “I also joined the gymnastics society at my university, and it’s a great way to work out and catch up with friends,” she adds.

5. Stay connected

Have trouble meeting new people? Say yes to social soirées. “Scape runs different events every month, like surfing lessons, hiking trips and market visits, which have allowed me to bond with my neighbours and expand my social circle,” Lee explains.

Shared spaces, such as gaming rooms, rooftops and courtyards, also make it easier to form new connections, as does signing up for extracurricular activities. “Joining clubs and societies at your university is great as you’re exposed to different people and different cultures,” Lee says.

6. Don’t forget to take breaks

Quality downtime can be as beneficial as study time.Credit: Scape Australia

Making time for yourself can feel like mission impossible when assignments, work and friends are competing for your attention, but taking regular breaks can improve your focus, health and overall productivity.

“Think of uni like a marathon, not a sprint,” Lee tips. “Study, catch up with friends, move your body and ensure you wind down at the end of every day.”

If you do find yourself feeling overwhelmed, reach out to your friends or make use of the counselling services offered by your tertiary institution or accommodation, such as Scape’s wellbeing app through Sonder.

Get ready to embark on your next adventure with Scape.