5 Ways to Make the Most of Online Study

Thinking about starting your UNSW degree online? While you may not be able to jump on a plane right now, you can start your Australian study adventure at home and join us on campus later. 

From digital learning, to making friends, to sport, language and your career – here’s how you can make the most out of university life at UNSW if you’ve started your study journey online.

1. Use Digital Learning to Your Advantage

UNSW’s online classes are interactive, meaning you can talk to your teachers and classmates in real time.

 “Having classes online brings me a sense of intimacy. It’s always easy to express my thoughts and ask questions,” explains Mengxin Han, who is completing her Master of Translation and Interpreting at UNSW Sydney and volunteering as a Cultural Mentor from her home in Inner Mongolia, China.

Using platforms like Moodle, Zoom, OpenLearning and Microsoft Teams, you have access to all the resources you need at the click of a button.

No matter where you are, UNSW’s IT Team are available to support you using these platforms.
Find out more​​​​​​

2. Know Where to Get the Right Support

Mengxin finds her teachers to be one of the best supports while studying online.

“I’ve met many wonderful teachers at UNSW, every one of them is dedicated to creating a great academic experience,” she says. “While learning online, the frequency of emails to my teachers increased, but they always reply to me promptly with warm-hearted advice or answers.”

Another way to get advice, make friends and learn about life in Australia is through UNSW’s Cultural Mentor program. 

“As a Cultural Mentor, my goal is providing support and guidance to new international students. We act as an emotional support, engagement facilitator and information provider,” says Mengxin, who loves sharing what she’s learned with other students.

Mengxin and her classmates participating in online mentoring

There are plenty of other support services available at UNSW too, including:

• UNSW International Student Experience Unit - This is team is dedicated to supporting you. You can book a one-on-one appointment with an experienced and professional International Student Advisor. 
• GREAT MATES – Run by UNSW’s student life hub, Arc, GREAT MATES pairs new international students with an experienced student for guidance, support and most importantly friendship. You’ll hang out virtually, get help in starting conversations, creating events, and more.
• International Student & Alumni Network – If you’re considering postgraduate study at UNSW, this is a great program that connects postgraduate international students with alumni.

3. Make Friends and Have Fun

Arc is UNSW’s student life hub, and they’ve moved all their activities online! This means you can meet new friends, learn new skills, have fun and keep fit wherever you are.

“Making use of the interesting social supports available at UNSW can also have benefits for your academic life,” says Mengxin.

Some of the activities you can access online through Arc are:

• Sport – Arc is now offering many of its sport programs online. This is a great way to meet other students who you can play sport with when you return to or join us on campus.
• Clubs and Societies - With over 300 to choose from, you're sure to discover something you’re passionate about and love.
• Volunteering – Not only is volunteering a great way to make friends and learn skills, you’ll also make a lasting impact on the community. 

4. Practice Your English

UNSW’s language exchange programs are a great way to practice your English and make friends, and they’re all accessible digitally.

• UNSW Language Exchange Program –  Since 2010, over 120 different language combinations have been exchanged and countless lifelong friendships have been made, including two marriages! You can be a complete beginner in the language you wish to learn or an advanced speaker.
• Culture Café – This is a casual language exchange group where you can make new friends, practice your English and learn about the many different cultures that make up UNSW.

5. Prepare for Your Career from Home

You can still gain work experience, industry connections and career guidance virtually! UNSW’s Student Academic and Career Success team have shifted their career support and guidance services online, including:

• One-on-one career consultations
• Academic skills support
• Virtual internships
• Career focused events and seminars

Your Adventure Starts Today!

Starting your degree online can be a great opportunity to get ahead with your study goals, take steps towards your dream career and make new friendships. Discover your UNSW Sydney adventure.