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If you're starting uni straight after finishing high school, it can be a bit tricky to get your head around how differently some things work at Western Sydney University (compared to your school).
The biggest difference between high school and university is that you’re treated as an adult. That means you get to take greater control of how you spend your time and what you study. It also means that your education is your responsibility, no one is going to do it for you.
We know there’s a lot to get your head around, so we’ve put together a list of some of the basic differences to help get you started.
types of assignments
types of assignments
High school
The assignment types received in high school are limited and designed for straightforward assessment.
Teachers organise students work and how they should prioritise their study time.
University
Types of assessments vary and are designed to encourage critical thinking and independent learning. Most study work takes place outside class
Scheduling
Scheduling
High school
Teachers organise students work and how they should prioritise their study time.
University
Preparing for your class is your responsibility. This includes managing and prioritising your work and getting things done on time. Lecturers and tutors will not prompt you.
grievances
grievances
High school
You express your problem with your teacher, who will report it to the principal.
University
Try to resolve the issue with your lecturer, Student Advisors or Director of Program.
support
support
High school
There are often free school counsellors in schools who specialise in providing support and support documents.
University
Students have access to a range of free and confidential services including counselling, financial aids, disability and academic support. It is the student's responsibility to seek out these services.
contact with parents
contact with parents
High school
Your parents or guardians play an important role in your schooling life. They are in regular contact with your teachers to help guide you in the right direction.
University
University staff, both administrative and teaching, can't talk to your parents (or anyone else) about you or disclose your information, unless you have signed the appropriate consent form.
teachers vs academics
teachers vs academics
High school
Teachers check your completed homework, remind you of your incomplete work, provide you with information you may have missed and remind you of assignments and due dates.
University
Lecturers are usually open and helpful, but do not check required reading or remind you to complete homework. You are chiefly responsible for being on top of your uni work.
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