Student Support

Student Support

Reasons for leaving

Problem: I don't understand what I'm learning/What I'm learning seems irrelevant

Talk to a Learning Skills Adviser.

Whatever your educational background, study advice & improved learning skills can help you succeed. The university can assist you develop the skills to meet the expectations of university study, including time management, research skills, reading and note taking, essay and report writing, tutorial preparation and exam techniques.

A special service also offers assistance to students who are having difficulties with mathematics or statistics in their course. The service includes: individual assistance with coursework, development of programs to strengthen skills of students who perceive they have weaknesses or lack confidence to succeed.

The University, through the Learning Skills Support Service at Student Services, provides a Learning Skills Adviser to offer support to any university student who has difficulties with English - preparing, writing and proof reading essays, preparing for oral presentations, and generally developing skills in written and spoken English.

Services are offered to individuals and groups face to face or via telephone, facsimile or email.

Why see a Learning Skills Adviser?

Problem: I think I may be doing the wrong course

Don't just throw it all in - talk to a Careers Adviser.

If you think that you are enrolled in the wrong course, no matter what your stage of study, talk to someone about it. There are numerous experienced people (Careers Adviser, Course Coordinator etc) who can assist you determine the right course of action and ensure you make full use of your time at university. There are plenty of options available to ensure that the next decision you make is the right one.

It may also help to talk to your School Liaison Officer, Course Coordinator, Student Counsellor, or Head of Residence.

Why see a Careers Advisor?

Problem: I can't cope with the demand of studying!

Talk to your Learning Skills Adviser - They can help you with lightening your study load.

If you think that your study load is too heavy or you are having trouble coping with your assignments, there are other study options available. Talk to your Learning Skills Adviser and discuss your options.

It may also help to talk to your School Liaison Officer, Course Coordinator, Student Counsellor or Head of Residence.

Problem: University life is not what I expected!

Is there one aspect, or maybe a few issues which are worrying you about the university lifestyle? Adjusting to the unfamiliar environment of university can take a little time. You may wish to speak to a university counsellor, who can offer advice on how to improve and get more out of your life at university.

It may also help to talk to your School Liaison Officer, Course Coordinator or Head of Residence.

Problem: I have issues outside of university that are causing problems with my study.

Talk with a Counsellor, it may help you with personal, family or health issues.

Confidential assistance is available to people experiencing a range of personal concerns including anxiety and stress, depression, loss and grief, motivational problems, family conflicts and relationship difficulties. These and other difficulties can impede your ability to study effectively. You can overcome these difficulties in a way which will help you continue and succeed with your study.

The Student Counsellors service is completely free, and available to all enrolled students of Charles Sturt University - both internal and distance education students.

The University Chaplains also offer a variety of services to students and staff including religious and ethical counselling, crisis support, general counselling, referrals to religious groups and services and on-campus worship.

Why see a Counsellor?

Remember to notify Residence and Accommodation if it is agreed that you should go home.

Confidentiality
All matters discussed with Counsellors are held in professional confidence. Nothing concerning a person is reported elsewhere unless prior consent by the person is given. In very extreme circumstances (eg. to protect the personal safety of someone), counsellors may be required to break confidentiality. This is necessary to conform with certain legal/ethical requirements. As far as possible the counsellor would seek approval from the client before doing this.

Problem: I am having money problems!

Talk to the Loans Officer about interest free student loans and means allowances.

If you are experiencing financial difficulties assistance may be available via an interest free loan to help you with expenses which are related to your studies. Assistance is also available with housing needs through a register of private housing which includes board, rooms to let, flats and houses to share. For more detailed loan guidelines see the Loans Officer at Student Services.

Loans are available to HECS funded students who are currently enrolled at this University. Loans may be approved for:

Never be too shy to approach Student Services about money or any other matters

Alternately, you may be eligible for assistance through the means-tested allowances such as Austudy, Abstudy and Youth Allowance. Comprehensive brochures are available by phoning:

Problem: I am not going in the direction that I want to go.

At some point in your studies, you may realise that you are not heading in the right direction to meet your talents and career goals. Changing direction should not be too much of a problem, if you speak to the appropriate people and take a new course of action.

You may discuss issues with a Careers Adviser, School Liaison Officer, Lecturer or Tutor. Also speak to the Course Coordinators of the course you are enrolled in, and the one you wish to transfer to. These people are able to offer valuable advice to get you back on track and fulfilling your ambitions.