UNSW WIT 2023 First Year Guide

WIT 2023 FIRST YEAR GUIDE

Everything you need to know to get the most out of first year!!

WIT Presents:

2023 First Years Guide

About WIT

UNSW Women in Technology (WIT) is a network of over 3100 students that works to empower, unite and upskill female students within STEM. We aim to encourage and create a more diverse environment within the technology industry.

WIT is proud of fostering a supportive and diverse community that provides exclusive resources to our members, ranging from first years to those who are on the cusp of graduating We aim to curate opportunities for our community to become the best version of themselves, whether it be personally, academically or socially Some key WIT initiatives include:

Weekly blogs exploring all things tech

Podcasts revolving around uni life and industry professionals

Annual Careers Guide

Case competitions

Course revision workshops

heBasicsT

Enrolment and courses

Figuring out which courses to enrol into and how to do so may seem daunting when you are just starting university. UNSW has a variety of resources that you can use to ease this process during your study, and we have provided the key ones below.

myUNSW provides you access to information about your enrolment, exams, academic history, financial records and more. You would have used it to enrol and register for Term 1, and you will have to follow a similar process every time you register and enrol into courses. Check it out here: https://my.unsw.edu.au/

The Nucleus: Student Hub

Handbook pages are assigned to all degrees and courses at UNSW Hop on to find more information about the course/degree that you are taking (e g , terms offered and prerequisites) A useful tip is to click the link to the course outline which gives you more insight into assessments and important deadlines

The Nucleus is located on the right hand side of the main library entrance. Make sure to pop by The Nucleus to get your ID card during O-Week, as they are essential for your access to a variety of student services.They can also provide you further help with course enrolments and results.

Moodle

Moodle is UNSW’s main learning platform. It enables you to access resources, lecture and tutorial links, assessment information and discussion forums. Alternative platforms used may be WebCM53 or Mobius for specific CSE subjects. Your course administrator will notify you which platform will be used before classes start.

This is UNSW’s official app which eases your student life by containing your timetable, Moodle content, library services, contact information and virtual queues for The Nucleus all in one place

Best Campus Eats

After a long day of lectures and tutorials a growling stomach is inevitable. Luckily, UNSW offers a wide variety of food options dispersed across the entirety of campus to satisfy your hunger - a well-deserved treat! Our favourite places include:

Yallah Eats

Located at the University Terraces building in lower campus, this place is a popular and budget friendly option if you are craving to build your own Middle Eastern pitas and bowls

Stock Market

The Mathews Food Court is a popular place that students flock to, especially if their classes are predominantly on upper campus. Stock Market is a great place to grab a healthy lunch, selling pasta and customisable salads

Stellini Pasta Bar

Also located at the University Terraces building in lower campus, Stellini Pasta Bar offers a range of Italian takeaway food including pastas, salads and also coffee to get you ready for the morning

The iconic fast food chain is located at the University Terraces building in lower campus GYG is a budget friendly place to hang out with friends while you munch on some authentic Mexican food, including but not limited to nachos, burritos, quesadillas etc.

Guzman Y Gomez

What’s in my Uni Bag?

Don’t know what to pack for your first day of uni? Depending on the courses you are taking, every student’s bag will vary. Don’t worry though, since we will jot down the essentials for you!

Concession Opal Card

An Opal Card is essential if you will be taking public transport to head to and back from university. Make sure that you apply for and have received your grey Concession Opal Card so that you receive a fare discount! Please keep in mind that you must legally carry your student ID with you if you carry this card. Don't risk a fine!

Student ID Card

Your ID card is used for identification, building access and university transactions such as borrowing books from the library. Ensure that you carry it with you at all times!

Laptop/Tablet

Laptops or tablets are essential for note taking during lectures and tutorials You can hook it up to UniWide, UNSW’s free wifi for students, if you want to study or get some work done on campus.

Course reading materials + textbooks

In some courses, readings or textbooks may be accessible or highly recommended to consolidate your knowledge of the course content. It may be good to bring these materials with you then during tutorials or study sessions at university.

Phone

A phone is essential for you to contact people and also access important apps such as Moodle or Lost on Campus.

Support Services

Here at WIT and across UNSW, we understand that everyone might experience stressful circumstances beyond their control. UNSW provides a variety of confidential support services including:

Counselling services

UNSW offers confidential telehealth and face-to-face consultations. For more information, visit https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/couns

elling

Psychology and Wellness

Your well-being is UNSW and WIT’s number one priority. Psychology and Wellness offers confidential consultations to help you manage your personal situation or provide useful information on where you can seek additional help For more information, visit

https://wwwstudentunsweduau/counselling/appointment

Mental Health Connect

Seeking a reliable source for mental health support may be difficult, and UNSW understands this. UNSW Mental Health Connect can provide guidance on where and how to seek support, whether it be virtual or face-to-face For more information, visit https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/mhc

Equitable Learning Services

If you are experiencing a health/mental health condition or disability that is impacting your studies, you can apply for the Equitable Learning Services This free and confidential service provides practical support for anyone whose studies are adversely affected For more information, visit https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/els

International Student Advisors

If you are an international student, international student advisors are a great way to clarify any general inquiries, including content concerning student visa conditions, accommodation and more. To book an appointment, visit https://wwwstudentunsweduau/consult

Student Support Advisors

Personalised advice regarding your university life, student visas, wellbeing, academic performance and other general points can be extremely helpful You can gain such information by booking an appointment with a student support advisor with the following link https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/advisors

Peer Mentor Connect

Peer Mentor Connect allows you to connect with a senior student mentor who will assist you with general enquiries concerning student life, course enrolments, how to connect with the UNSW community and more To access this service, visit https://wwwstudentunsweduau/pe er/chat

Arc Legal and Advocacy Services Online

Arc’s legal advocacy team offers legal advice concerning tenancy issues, academic/student misconduct, Centrelink, employment, visa and immigration services, UNSW complaints and more. To make an appointment, visit https://arclegalsetmorecom/

Financial Assistance

Government support

All eligible domestic students can access Commonwealth Assistance from the government to assist with paying for their studies Centrelink payments including Abstudy, Austudy, Youth Allowance, Pensioner Education Supplement and Student Start-up Loan are also available for eligible individuals.

UNSW support

UNSW also offers financial assistance via scholarships, Fee Payment Plans and interest-free loans for eligible domestic and international students. For more information, visit https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/loans

Academics

STUDY SPACES

The right environment is the KEY to any effective study session. Studying on campus? Here are some of our recommendations for study spaces according to your study goals!

Working in a group?

A study buddy is a great way to motivate you to work, but keep in mind not to disturb other people studying around you. Here are the places on campus that allow you to study and have catch-ups at the same time:

Business School

The Business School is a popular study spot, especially when you want to work with a friend. There are plenty of study tables and booths for larger groups and microwaves on every floor in case you get hungry! Many of these study spaces also include whiteboards and powerpoints which is perfect when working on a group assignment

Getting into the zone?

Main Library

Levels 2 - 6, 8 provide study rooms with large tables and the perfect environment to focus on getting that group work done Keep in mind that having larger meals like lunch can only be eaten on Level 2.

Sometimes all we need is peace and quiet (and a large cup of coffee) to grind through those tough exams and assessments. These study spaces are perfect for when you need to focus on those upcoming due dates.

Main Library

The Main Library is just as effective for getting solo studying done. Level 7 is dedicated entirely to silent study and students can also reserve individual study spaces on Levels 3-4 and 7 including comfortable study pods The library also offers other services such as printers, scanners and even a nap area

Law Library

Study spaces in the Law Library are vibrant yet cosy. There are plenty of individual study booths that require no booking and allow for some intense focus during your study session

CATS Rooms

All study spaces taken? Try finding an empty CATS room for silent study. Be sure to check the timetable on the door first to see if the room is available

Studying outside?

Don’t waste a beautiful day! Campus has plenty of places where you can get your work done while also enjoying the sun.

Outside tables and booths

UNSW offers a wide variety of different booths and tables all over campus for outside study Some tables even have power points so you won’t need to worry about your device losing charge while you enjoy the nice weather. Some great places include the Quad, outside the SEB building and the Library Lawn

Cafes

There are plenty of great places to buy a coffee on campus such as Plume Cafe and the well-named Coffee on Campus Have a great study session surrounded by the aroma of freshly made coffee and even buy a snack to munch on while you work. You deserve it!

STUDY SECRETS FOR SUCCESS

As a first year student you will be attending a variety of classes such as lectures, tutorials and labs, where you may be confronted with huge amounts of information. It can be challenging to stay on top of your studies but it is important to maintain a good work flow throughout the term so that when it’s exam time, you won’t be catching up on a trimester’s worth of lectures!

Note-Taking

It is important to know how to extract and remember the important information delivered to you in your courses. Note-taking is an effective way to reinforce and capture what you’re learning

Here are some tips for effective note-taking:

DO write down the main points and notable facts that may be hard to remember

DO organise your notes - use bullet points, abbreviations and highlight

DO summarise the main messages at the end of your lecture to reinforce your understanding of the material

DON’T write down everything the lecturer says

DON’T experiment with the presentation of your notes during note-taking

Time Management

1. Create a weekly plan - and follow it!

Your planner should contain your class schedule, assessment deadlines, extracurricular activities and plenty of time for self care If you don’t enjoy a time-bound schedule, opt for a daily to-do list instead Make sure you don’t overpack your schedule otherwise you might risk a burnout!

2. Note down course assessments

Your course outline will provide you with what week your assessment will be in and what content will be tested. Start tailoring your notes and study early on!

Remember your courses are a marathon, not a race. Learn to work slowly and steadily; avoid cramming at the last minute. Most importantly, set goals for yourself and work towards them. While studying, don’t hesitate to ask questions from your lecturers, tutors and the forum.

DIGITAL ESSENTIALS

Here are some hot apps and tools to make your university grind easier.

Calendar

Remember time management? Well, it becomes a lot easier when you have a digital calendar on your side! Google Calendar and Outlook Calendar are two great options for keeping track of your lectures and events

Tracking Tasks

Trello is an organisation tool and one of the best ways to organise your work, especially if you’re working with others. You can assign tasks, keep track of due dates and more!

Notion is another great planning tool You can use it to note-take, plan tasks and organise group projects But the real fun is the ability to personalise and make it entirely your own, with plenty of ready-made templates available online

Note-taking

Online note-taking tools such as OneNote and EverNote are perfect for keeping your note-taking and keeping your notes in an organised manner. If you’re on an iPad, GoodNotes is a great app that allows for both typing and using your stylus.

Study Aids

Losing focus? Try apps like Forest which helps you maintain motivation and reward you for the work you do.

Self Care

An often forgotten and important aspect of learning is making time for yourself

If you want to achieve your goals, do your best and succeed, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to relax and refocus.

Socialising

University is full of opportunities to socialise and make new friends From speed-friending events to your desk-mate in a tutorial, you’re guaranteed to meet new people Make sure to make plenty of time for your friends and family; go out to eat, have a picnic or if you’re a multi-tasker, set a study date! Friends and family are not only a great support system but can also help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated to tackle your studies.

Hobbies

Acquiring skills doesn’t only have to come through your studies Allocate time during your week to do things you enjoy Whether that be reading, hiking or painting, hobbies can not only help us relax but also hone new skills Here are some hobbies you can try:

Sports

Exercise and sports are beneficial to not only your physical health, but can be key to maintaining your mental health as well Exercising helps our brain produce chemicals that help improve mood and clarity of thought - which we’ll need for our study sessions Be sure to check out ArcSports for the many sports clubs and events on campus

Creative arts

Try your hand at creating something new! Whether it be knitting, drawing or creating music, studies have shown that art activities can help improve mental health by providing stress relief

Reading

Thriller, fantasy, romance - there’s a genre out there for everyone Reading for leisure helps strengthen our brains while reducing stress at the same time The best part is you can read anywhere! Try flipping those pages at the beach or a cute cafe and allow yourself to be immersed in a world far, far away

Society Events

Participating in society events is a great way to work on your academic skills while having fun and socialising at the same time Society events will cater to your specific interests and allow you to network and meet other like-minded people They don’t always have to be skill-based either!

Be sure to keep an eye out for the free BBQs and networking events on the Facebook UNSW

Discussion page

JOINING JOINING WIT WIT

JoiningaSociety

Societies are a core part of UNSW’s campus culture. They are a great way to immerse yourself into activities that you may be interested in, whilst also giving you opportunities to upskill and make new friends while you study!

Arcsocieties

Arc is a student organisation at UNSW that aims to enhance your student experience by offering a range of clubs, volunteering, sports and society opportunities Arc membership is free and is your gateway to enjoying student life, so it would be worth paying a visit to Arc Reception to grab a shiny membership sticker for your Student ID!

There are many societies in UNSW that cater to a variety of hobbies and interests, including our very own Women in Technology, DogSoc, QuidditchSoc and more!

Whyjoinasociety?

What’s even more exciting than being a society member is being a part of its subcommittee! Being in the internal team to create and deliver society content is one of the most rewarding and fun ways through which you can make friends and contribute to student life. It's a great chance to work on your hard and soft skills by contributing to something you’re passionate about

Benefits of joining a society include:

Expanding your network

Upskilling yourself

Learning about industry

Having fun!

Anyone can apply and applications tend to open during the first few weeks of Term 1, so ensure to keep your eyes peeled! More information regarding WIT’s subcommittee positions can be found on the next few pages

Vivian Wang Co-President

Bachelor of Computer Science / Science (Statistics), 3rd Year

What have you learnt from your time in WIT? As a first year, university can sometimes be intimidating when it's packed with people you don't know WIT has made me grow both personally and professionally, while helping me walk around campus with a few more familiar faces.

What are you most likely to be doing on a day off?

Annoying my cat :)

What have you learnt from your time in WIT? I've been able to work on my communication and leadership skills Joining a society is a great way to work on these soft skills and I am so glad I made the decision to join in my first year.

Brianna Kim Co-President

Bachelor of Data Science and Decisions, 3rd Year

What are you most likely to be doing on a day off?

Annoying vivian, watching youtube, planning world domination

What have you learnt from your time in WIT? The confidence to overcome my imposter syndrome

Yuhan Zhou Secretary

Bachelor of Actuarial Studies/ Commerce, 3rd Year

Abigail Joesan Johan Treasurer

Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Technology) / Information Systems

What are you most likely to be doing on a day off?

Watching C-dramas and listening to K-pop.

What have you learnt from your time in WIT? As the marketing co-director last year, I learnt how to lead and motivate my amazing team and share responsibilities with my co-director Gabby! Communication and being transparent is also something super important that I learnt

What are you most likely to be doing on a day off?

Bingeing on cringey tv shows lmao.

Bachelor of Computer Science, 4th Year

What have you learnt from your time in WIT? How to manage a team, web development and how to solve problems efficiently

What are you most likely to be doing on a day off? Convincing people that there’s no WIT without IT ;)

What have you learnt from your time in WIT?

I've learnt how to take initiative because you never know unless you try it out and that's how you grow

What are you most likely to be doing on a day off?

Binge watching tv shows or movies!

What have you learnt from your time in WIT? I've learnt how to be more confident in my own ability to bring change through leading others There is always more you can achieve in a group than solo!

What are you most likely to be doing on a day off?

Probably playing genshin on my PC while daydreaming about having a pet cat :)

What have you learnt from your time in WIT? Time management - juggling uni, society tasks and work can be a bit tough at times, however this has taught me how to improve my planning skills, prioritise my time and master my google calendar expertise.

What are you most likely to be doing on a day off? Soaking up the sunshine while taking my dog for a walk, a swim at the beach or even a nice long hike (all 3 in a day would be chef's kiss!) However I can also be a total hermit and stay home, snuggled up with a good thriller book

Chelsea Chaffey VP Multimedia

Emily Dang VP Externals

Bachelor of Software Engineering, 3rd Year

VP Internals Abarna Ravindran

Bachelor of Commerce and Information Systems, 3rd Year

Joanna He VP Technology

Bachelor of Advanced Science (Hons)/Computer Science

WIT WIT

Subcommittees Subcommittees

Looking to join WIT? Here is a quick breakdown of each of our subcommittees personally written by our lovely directors! Which subcommittee suits you best?

What to expect:

Join us if you want to build your professional skills, run cool events and meet some fun new people! We communicate with sponsors to create the best events that help uni students in their career aspirations

Portfolio vibes:

One word: Yochi If you don't know what that is, come apply for our careers portfolio to find out!

What to expect:

You will have plenty of scope to let your creativity flourish by organising WIT's largest events such as the annual Hackathon, case cracks and high school outreach programs.

Portfolio vibes:

A combination of light academia and dark comedy

COMPETITIONS

HUMAN RESOURCES

What to expect:

You will be in charge of ideating and directing exciting internal bonding events! Help foster strong camaraderie and society culture, which is at the heart of WIT Our portfolio also tracks the personal development of all subcommittee members to ensure everyone feels welcomed and included.

Portfolio vibes:

Wholesome, chaotic, and most importantly a rewarding experience!

Elissa Luong and Joyce Wang

Crystal Zhao and Eeman Chaudhry CAREERS

Anusha Nair and Syna Agarwal

MARKETING

What to expect:

Put your creative and coding skills to use by designing and developing our website, collaborating with other portfolios on technical media, and working on some secret upcoming projects! We're constantly growing in our skills, equipping ourselves and others with the strengths we need to break the glass ceiling of our industry

Portfolio vibes: There's no WIT without IT

What to expect:

A lot of creative freedom! You get to take ownership of your posts and really experiment with the designs Especially with our mascot Willow the wombat! You’ll majorly upskill in your digital content skills as you create a variety of content from newsletters to event covers, and work with different applications from Figma to MailChimp

Portfolio vibes: WHOLESOMMEE <3333

What to expect:

You will be exploring the niches of tech and community through your video editing, interviewing and influencing skills Apart from bringing up your own investigative topics of choice relevant to WIT, you will be part of our new podcast initiative Willow Talk, video essays, TikToks and much more

Portfolio vibes: Chaotic creativity meets camera!

MEDIA

Neysa Njo and Angela Joyce Chacko

Nusaibah Bari and Sanika Raje

Grace Kan and Kate Oh

What to expect:

Flex your writing skills by being super creative and empowering readers with your words We are in charge of major publications such as WIT Crush Wednesdays, blogs and the First Year Guide you are reading right now!

Portfolio vibes:

A perfect mix of rom-com and trashy horror!

PUBLICATIONS

What to expect:

Bringing your event ideas to life and making memorable experiences for the student community. You will meet and partner with new people from other societies and have the chance to work with external organisations for sweet discounts

Portfolio vibes: Girls (and everyone) just wanna have fun!

SOCIALS

What to expect:

Represent WIT in a professional manner, as you liaise with many different sponsors to deliver great events, publications and media content It is a great opportunity to develop your written communication skills, as we are the first line of communication between sponsors and the rest of the WIT team.

SPONSORSHIPS

Portfolio vibes: Two scoops of chill and easy-going, with a sprinkle of seriousness.

Charlotte Fang Hendro and Alice Shang

Kristy Lam and Nabiha Rajput

Pranavi Parasu and Bruhathi Challapalli

Otherwaystogetinvolvedwithus!

WIT aims to enrich your experience at UNSW via a variety of different and fun initiatives! Be keen to dive into our upcoming publications including:

Careers Guide 2023

A helpful publication that outlines career development and job opportunities relating to various STEM degrees.

WIT’s main annual creative work that draws from the creativity of WIT’s internal team

We also provide opportunities for students to immerse themselves in an empowering environment that encourages them to learn and upskill. Such events include:

Ever wanted to break into the tech industry, but wasn’t sure how to? This program is the perfect opportunity for both new and experienced students to break into and learn more about the tech industry!

Annual Networking Night 2023

WIT’s Annual Networking Night will give UNSW students the opportunity to connect and network with industry professionals coming from many of WIT’s sponsors and partners

Merchandise sales

Cute Willow merch…What more can be said?

WIT Magazine 2023

The Empowerment Mentoring Program

Credits to our 2023 marketing and publications teams for pulling this together

Written by: Kristy Lam, Nabiha Imran Rajput

Designs by: Angela Joyce Chacko, Neysa Njo

Overseen by: Chelsea Chaffey

The team at WIT wishes you all the best for your first year at UNSW!!