Administrative transition
Universities are very large institutions that can be confusing, and while administrative transition is often overlooked by prospective students, getting and staying on top of all your admin is absolutely essential.
Below is a list of the more common issues faced by students - have a look and check if there are any that you wouldn't have anticipated - and some links to helpful resources.
| Common issues | Tip | Resources |
- Uni and you: If you've come from school, you (and your parents) will have to get used to the fact that all of the University's communication will be with you: no more newsletters or reports.
- Timetable: You will have to organise your own timetable and sort out any clashes that might occur.
- Enrolment: It is your responsibility to enrol (and re-enrol for subsequent semesters) on time.
- Due Dates: You need to keep track of all due dates for enrolment, subject changes, census dates etc.
- Email: It is expected that during semester and end-of-year breaks, that you will stay in touch by regularly checking and responding to emails sent to your University account.
- Online: A lot of this university communication and administration will happen online, so make sure you have skills in using email and the internet.
Tip: Even if you have a private email address, you must activate and regularly check your free University email. Otherwise, you will miss important messages and information.
- Student email: Activate and regularly check your free University email account through the Student Portal.
- Student Portal: Links to Student Administration, Library and Student Services. Change your address details, find out about books, exams and more.
- Semester and other important dates: Key University dates for exams, census, holidays etc.
- Academic Skills Unit: Advice and resources on time management and effective study.
- Library and Information Services: Learn how to use library systems and catalogues, plus IT skills, classes and guides, through the 'Library' tab in the Student Portal. See also Student IT.