Tips for adult learners starting university

Not too sure how to make university study work and how to fit your studies around all your other responsibilities? Read our tips for adult and returning students thinking about university study.

Some tips to help you make the most of your university experience

Talk to the people who matter the most to you

Chat to your family, friends or colleagues – your support network – about why you’ve decided to take on study, what this may mean for your time with them and how they can help you cross that graduation stage.

Let them know when you’re busy with assignments or study – they may be able to help with childcare or household chores, or simply be there to listen if you’re feeling a bit stressed!

Make a plan

Create a weekly timetable for yourself to make sure you can balance your classes and assignments at uni with all the other aspects of your life. It can help you prioritise tasks, keep track of deadlines and ensure you know when you can study for your courses.

Consider things like setting aside 45-minute blocks to do your readings or assignments, or making time to stay at the library after class to study without being pulled into your other responsibilities.

Make the most of the resources

Take advantage of all the resources and support services you can access as an AUT student – from library workshops and resources to online study support, free counselling, wellbeing support and other student services.

You can discover all that’s available when you attend Orientation for new students or visit our website to explore our student services.

Bring your life experience into the classroom

Worried about your classmates being younger than you? Don’t be. You have a wealth of work and life experiences you can share in class discussions or when you’re working on projects – you’ll be able to add a unique perspective and your classmates will thank you for it.

Don’t be shy

Actively participate in class discussions, and build relationships with your classmates and academic staff. It’s a great way to get the most out of your university experience, grow your network and make new friends you can share the university journey with.

Ask for help if you need it

If you’re not sure about something covered in class or you just need a bit of advice, don’t be afraid to ask. Your lecturer will be more than happy to help, and for your student life-related questions simply reach out to the friendly team at the AUT Student Hub.

Don’t forget to look after yourself

Fitting study around your family, work and all the other things in your life can be stressful, so it’s important to look after your wellbeing and make time to prioritise self-care. Now sure how? Check out our wellbeing resources.