What I Wish I Knew in my First Year

Congratulations to all first years! The next couple of years at UOM will be some of the most exciting, educational, and transformative years.

Nevertheless, you will, to a certain extent, be thrown in the deep end and must figure out a way to swim. To help, here is a list of things that will help guide you to the kind of experience you're looking for, the things I wish someone had told me in my first year.

1.         A MULS membership is your best friend!

I’m sure you’ll think I’m biased for this, but I promise you, in the most impartial way possible, I cannot recommend this enough! MULS offers an unparalleled experience, including commercial awareness development sessions, application advice, law firm events, and, of course, the annual law ball for a night to remember.

I ended up getting my membership in my second year, and my CV doubled in size. I couldn’t continue to miss out on all the opportunities. MULS also has a wider recognition with law firms than you might think. With opportunities to network with law firms like Herbert Smith Freehills and informative panels, this membership has paid for itself in knowledge, advice, and opportunities I would not have found elsewhere.

So, the only real question is… what’re you waiting for?

2.         Study schedule and Study Spots

Build your study schedule; only you know what works for you. You will always have work coming your way when you least suspect it. So, if you try working on a schedule, you’ll have checked enough things off your to-do list to allow you to deal with that when the time comes. If you like structure and routine, try to find your perfect spot on campus too, the one that has that perfect balance of quiet but not too.

3.         Make time for yourself and the things you enjoy

Of course, we all want that first-class mark, but one of the most important ways to get it is by ensuring you don’t burn out your immense potential. Take a day on the weekend to explore the city with some friends, grab a coffee at Federal, watch a movie, or read a book. Taking care of yourself will be a key part of your focus and success. 

4.         Societies and career fairs

Never miss out on welcome week! Welcome Week is an opportunity to meet new people (both in your course and around the university), learn about the many societies, and get to know your new campus.

Also, towards the middle of the fall semester, and later in spring, there’ll be plenty of career fairs for all different interests and aspirations, including those for part-time jobs, internships, and placements. Make the most of these networking opportunities and get to know your future.

5.         Don’t be afraid to ask for help

I’m sure this is easier said than done, but trust me, many people around campus are there to help and eager to do so.

Whenever you have trouble understanding something on your course, take initiative and make the most of office hours. The lecturers are always happy to give you some advice as necessary and explain anything you may have missed.

Although, if your problems are not necessarily academic, first-years also have peer mentors provided by the SU who will help support you as needed. There’s also lots of different support at the SU support services website, depending on your issue, so don’t be afraid to use it.

Lastly, just remember that you worked hard to get here, so enjoy your reward! For what it is and all that it has to offer, the time we get at university is much too short; make the most of this opportunity to be independent. Best of luck!