Tips for new students

• Boost your study skills at the Library: More than just a place for books, the Library is your go-to spot to build your study and research skills – online or on campus. Make the most of study workshops, expert help guides, the assessment planner and the academic referencing tool.
• Get support from experienced students: Peer Learning Advisors (PLAs) are friendly students trained to help you understand assignments and navigate uni systems. You can chat with them online or in person.
• Strengthen your Academic English: The Academic English support module helps you build confidence in the writing and communication skills used at Australian universities.
• Check in with your coordinators: Your Subject and Course Coordinators can answer questions about your subjects and study plan.  Find their contact details in the University Handbook or via the LMS.

Explore study support options

Accommodation is a great way to get involved in uni life. Finding rental accommodation in Australia is very competitive, so you need to apply early.

• Live on campus: Living on campus can be a great way to make friends, especially in your first few weeks. Book your on-campus accommodation early. If you’re coming from overseas, book before you leave your home country and check if you’re eligible for the International Student Accommodation Grant.
• Live off campus: Off-campus options exist, but research is key. Websites like realestate.com.au, Flatmates.com.au or local Facebook groups can help you find vacant rentals or a room in an existing share house.
• Stay safe: Always inspect a property before you sign a lease, know your rental rights and be aware of scams (including rental scams).

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The Living at La Trobe team is friendly, supportive and here to help you transition to life on campus.

Accommodation at La Trobe

• Make the most of Orientation: Orientation (O Week) is your best friend! Go to as many sessions as you can, not just the compulsory ones. Social events are designed to help you meet others feeling the same way. Check your emails and the Orientation Planner for information on upcoming O Week events and to build your personalised schedule.
• Join a club: Clubs and societies make a huge difference. From cultural groups and sports to gaming and volunteering, clubs and societies can bring you together with people who care about the same things you do.
• Give friendships time: Making friends takes time, and that’s normal.  Read this blog from our student intern Min to hear about her experiences making new friends at uni.
• Get involved in events: Getting out there and joining student events is one of the best ways to meet like-minded people. Whether it’s free food at your campus café or off-campus adventures, events are a fun, low-pressure way to meet new people and try something new.
• Connect with other international students: Studying in a new country is a big step, but you’re not alone. Get to know other international students at La Trobe and across Melbourne by joining the International Student Network for updates and early access to events or explore the City of Melbourne’s Connect with other international students website.

Plan your Orientation

There is so much support available to help you build real-world experience throughout your degree.

The earlier you start exploring these opportunities, the more confident, connected and career-ready you’ll feel when graduation arrives.

• Use CareerHub to boost your job skills: CareerHub is La Trobe’s career and employability platform. It’s designed to help you build employment skills, prepare for work and access tools that support your career development. You can upskill early by attending workshops, joining mentoring programs, completing micro credentials and engaging with industry events.
• Gain real-world experience while studying: La Trobe offers placements, industry projects, internships, volunteering programs and on-campus roles across many study areas, so you can get invaluable experience while studying.
• Know your work rights: It’s important to understand your workplace rights. If you’re an international student, make sure you learn about your work rights in Australia.

Check out CareerHub