Three ways to make the most of your UQ experience

Uni is an important chapter in our lives where we are constantly being taught new things, being inspired and trying to decide what we want to do with our future. At uni, you have the opportunity to meet so many new people and discover new things about yourself and the world. Your time at uni is bound to fly by, so make sure that you’re making the most of your experience at UQ so that you can look back with ‘no ragrets’ and look forward with confidence and enthusiasm. Here are three ways you can make the most of your time at UQ:

1. Get involved in clubs and societies

Whether you’re just starting out at uni, reaching that half-way mark or nearing the end of your studies, getting involved in one of UQ Union’s 220+ clubs and societies will allow you to make new friends, expand your network and attend heaps of fun events. Clubs and societies can relate to your field of study as well as your interests and hobbies, such as dancing, the arts, social justice, politics, language and culture, and so much more. Making connections with your peers is important because one day they could be your future employers, interviewers, colleagues or industry connections.

Madeleine and society members representing the Tourism Hospitality & Events Society at UQ's Market Day

2. Join a social sport

With many studies explaining the numerous benefits to our well-being from participating in sport, both physically and socially, you’ve got a lot to gain from joining a social sport at UQ. Playing sports helps to reduce stress and improve your mood, concentration and self-confidence. By joining a social sporting team, not only are you engaging in your daily dose of exercise and taking a break from studying, you also have the opportunity to meet new people and strengthen existing friendships. It’s a win-win situation!

Check out the range of social sports on offer through UQ Sport and UQ Interfaculty Competitions. You can grab some mates and form a team or sign up as an individual and be allocated a team. The benefits of participating in social sport are plentiful, so pick an activity you’re interested in and get moving!

3. Participate in a global experience

UQ offers many excellent global experiences including the student exchange program and short-term experiences. A global experience is a fantastic opportunity to explore the world and enhance your personal and professional skills.

My short-term experience in France was truly unforgettable. I was able to make new friends from all over the world and gain new perspectives on my studies. Staying with a host family was an amazing opportunity for me to improve my language skills and be authentically immersed in another way of life. My exchange experience has allowed me to be a more effective communicator and have a greater appreciation and understanding of other cultures.

Contact the UQ Global Experiences Team to discuss and plan the best global experience for you.

About the author

Madeleine is passionate about the Tourism and Events Industry, and loves learning about other cultures and languages. Studying a dual degree at UQ, Madeleine is currently completing her Bachelors of Arts/International Hotel and Tourism Management majoring in French and Journalism. She is a founding member and former executive of UQ’s Tourism, Hospitality & Events Student Society and studied abroad in France in 2018. She advocates that being involved in uni life outside of study is important because she has found meeting new people and engaging in new experiences to be highly rewarding.

Madeleine visiting a Chateau in France while on Exchange