From classroom to campus: How to navigate the transition

You’ve ticked the HSC off your list and now there’s an even greater milestone ahead of you: higher education. For many students, this will be your first time living away from home, which means you’ll be in charge of everything from studying and getting to lectures on time to paying rent and cleaning dishes.

Moving from high school to a tertiary institution is a big change.Credit: iStock

Between your new responsibilities and a sprawling campus to navigate, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but armed with these tips from Cecilia Kartawinata, a third-year food-technology student at RMIT, you’ll have all the tools you need for a smooth transition.

Get to know your campus

“Take time to familiarise yourself with the environment before your first day,” Kartawinata tips. “Visit the campus, explore and get a feel for the place. Do some research on how classes are run and what to expect, because everything is structured differently compared to high school.”

Getting to know the campus layout can help you feel comfortable and prepared on your first day, as will connecting with fellow new students.

“If, like me, you’re living in a Scape property, attend their social events,” Kartawinata tips. “They’re a great way to make connections. I’ve made some of my closest friends at these events and have also met people from the same uni as me, which was helpful when trying to figure out how things worked.”

Make a timetable

To prevent work, study and social events from spiralling out of control, Kartawinata recommends keeping a timetable. “I usually plan everything in my calendar, from dinner with friends to what assignments I have on,” she explains.

“I also have a notebook I update every week detailing which assignments are due. I write down how long each one will take so I know when to start or when I can push things out.”

Pick the right accommodation

The right accommodation can have a significant impact on your wellbeing.Credit: Scape Australia

Aside from choosing your course of study, deciding where to live during your studies is one of the most important decisions you can make. Research shows that your accommodation can have a significant impact on your overall wellbeing, and Kartawinata agrees.

“I wanted somewhere close to uni that also held social events so I could meet people and settle in faster,” she says. “The right place can make a huge difference. If it’s too far, commuting can be exhausting, and good amenities can make daily life much easier.”

In addition to her Scape apartment being close to her uni and transport hubs, Kartawinata especially loves that it is all-inclusive.

“Sometimes I forget to renew or pay things, so it’s very convenient for me to have one payment that covers everything,” she explains. “I see my friends paying for gym memberships, water and electricity, and it seems like such a hassle.”

For Kartawinata, the location, communal spaces and facilities of her apartment make it easier to focus on herself, and she’s not the only one who feels this way. According to the 2024 Gen Z Wellbeing Index, Scape residents are more likely to be in better mental and physical health than other young Australians, and they also get more sleep, feel more energised, eat healthier and stay connected with family and friends.

Prioritise your self-care

“You can’t do your best academically if you’re not taking care of your body,” Kartawinata tips. “Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and are nourishing yourself. Your health should always come first.”

Home-cooked meals are often cheaper and more nutrient-dense than take-away options, so try to dine in when you can and ensure you prioritise rest.

“I once got really sick from working too much and neglecting my health,” Kartawinata explains. “That experience made me realise how important it is to maintain a balance — especially if you’re living away from family and need to manage everything on your own.”

Setting clear boundaries allows Kartawinata to relax and reset, which helps increase her productivity. “Knowing when to stop and take a break is key to avoiding burnout,” she says. “It’s a learning process, but small steps can make a big difference.”

Seek support

Make use of the support services available at your accommodation or institution. Credit: iStock

“Don’t hesitate to ask for help,” Kartawinata says. “Most universities have counsellors or support services available — just search your uni’s website for details. If you’re staying at Scape, you can download the Sonder app, or you can approach the customer experience team — CEs —in your building for help. Talking to someone can make you feel less alone and help you better navigate any challenges that arise.”

Get ready to embark on your next adventure with Scape.