Each ExploreUC workshop was a hands-on experience to give high school students a taste of uni. Photo: Tyler Cherry.
The transition to university is an exciting time for high school students, but there are a number of competing elements to factor in as graduation approaches, including whether the university environment is one they will thrive in.
The University of Canberra (UC) partnered with local high schools and secondary colleges for ExploreUC Week from 27 March to 2 April, giving students an idea of what to expect when they hit the concourse.
Nearly 1000 prospective undergrads from schools across the region enjoyed an immersive program that placed them in the shoes of a UC student for a day.
High school students Mary and Samara enjoying ExploreUC Week. Photo: Liv Cameron.
UC provided complimentary bus transport and lunch packages alongside personalised, discipline-specific and interactive workshops that highlighted facilities in greater detail than the standard school visit.
Mary and Samara attended a variety of timetabled sessions before settling into lunchtime entertainment, which included live music and games.
“I went on the Health faculty tour, which was really hands-on,” Samara said.
“We got to see the mannequins they use for practice and the equipment students use.
“I also went to a creative writing session and it was really cool having published authors teach you.”
Mary also attended the Health faculty tour before exploring the UC College program.
“It was interesting to see the different programs available to help you get into uni if you don’t get the ATAR you wanted,” she said.
“UC College is a great resource.”
Chris Gartner is UC’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Future Students. He said ExploreUC is an opportunity for seniors to draw their own conclusions about what studying at university is like.
“There are many different examples of uni out there and this can be confusing for students,” said Chris.
“Movies, books and ads don’t necessarily portray life on campus in a realistic way.
“ExploreUC gives students a chance to see things for themselves, connect with other young people, and hear from some of the professionals who will be teachers in their first year.”
Students enjoying the Esports Lounge at UC. Photo: Liv Cameron.
Students in years 10 to 12 came from 22 schools across the ACT and surrounding regions, including Merici, Hawker, Erindale, Lake Tuggeranong and Melba Copeland colleges to see what UC has to offer.
They were joined by seniors travelling from Cowra, Leeton, Jindabyne and Pambula.
“Seniors were on campus all week amongst current uni students and got to hear from key speakers, including faculty Deans and course advisers,” Chris said.
“Every student built their own activity timetable based on their interests and moved pretty freely around campus to each session throughout the day.
“It’s really important that our student visitors get an accurate picture of how we run things so they can make informed decisions about their future study.”
Prospective students can find out more about studying at UC here.
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