Around 3000 eager undergraduate students will have the opportunity to start their Macquarie journey early, by enrolling and selecting classes for 2016 online or attending an on-campus event on Monday 14 December. This exciting new engagement event is the culmination of an agile, collaborative project between teams from Student Administration, Macquarie International, Faculty Associate Deans, Timetabling, Campus Life and Future Students.

Along with early enrolment, this group of students (comprised of Year 12 students offered early admission through various programs, non-current school leavers and a number of international students), will have unparalleled early access to Macquarie facilities, services and a sneak-peak into university life.

They will be able to select their units and create their 2016 timetable; one of the biggest ‘unknowns’ our future students have when planning for their first year at university.

“Transitioning from high school to university can be a significant adjustment,” says Deidre Anderson, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students and Registrar).

“By enrolling early, students have the opportunity to lock in their timetable and move into the holiday season with certainty about their subjects for next year.”

As well as early enrolment assistance, the on-campus welcome event will include campus tours, a panel session with academics and current students, along with plenty of games and social activities. Once enrolled, students will be able to collect their student card and gain immediate access to our facilities, including the Library and Sport and Aquatic Centre. They will even have the opportunity to stay a night at Robert Menzies College to really get the full on-campus experience!

Students will be provided with a suggested first year study plan, along with revamped program guides. This will help students to navigate the large number of units available, whilst maintaining the flexibility to customise a study plan.

The Learning Skills program will be brought forward to commence at the beginning of February, instead of the beginning of Session 1. Learning Skills is a comprehensive program offered to all students each session (with a particular focus on the beginning of session) and includes free workshops on core skills needed by every university student in their academic endeavours.

In addition to this group, around 1500 students will be offered a 2016 place in early January and will be able to accept and enrol online. A further 5000 ‘main round’ offers will be made through UAC later in January, ahead of Session 1 commencing on Monday 29 February.

“By enrolling students early, they are better prepared for university life and for what we believe will be a life-changing experience,” says Deidre.

So if you’re on campus on Monday 14 December, keep an eye out (and perhaps offer a smile!) for the newest members of our Macquarie community.