SEARCH RESULTS

Taking the step to apply for the student council can feel both exciting and a little daunting. But trust me, it’s a fantastic opportunity to grow, connect, and make a real difference in our university community. Whether you’re passionate about social justice, want to improve student life, or simply want to develop leadership skills, joining the student council is a great way to do it. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying, preparing, and thriving in your role. Why Join the Student Council? A Student Council Guide Before diving into the application process, let’s chat about why joining the student council is worth your time. Being part of the council means you get to: Represent your peers : You become the voice for your fellow students, especially those in Social Work, ensuring their concerns and ideas are heard. Develop leadership skills : From organising events to managing projects, you’ll gain hands-on experience that looks great on your resume. Build a supportive network : You’ll meet like-minded students and staff who share your passion for social change and community building. Make a tangible impact : Whether it’s advocating for better resources or creating new initiatives, your work can improve the student experience for everyone. Joining the student council isn’t just about adding a line to your CV; it’s about growing personally and professionally while contributing to a vibrant, supportive community. How to Prepare Your Student Council Application Now, let’s get practical. Preparing your student council application is your first step. Here’s how to make it stand out: Understand the Role Take time to research what the student council does at Flinders University, especially within the Social Work Association. What are the current projects? What challenges do students face? This knowledge will help you tailor your application to show you’re ready to contribute meaningfully. Reflect on Your Strengths Think about what you bring to the table. Are you a great communicator? Do you have experience organising events or campaigns? Maybe you’re passionate about mental health or social justice issues. Highlight these strengths clearly. Write a Clear and Personal Statement Your application statement should be: Concise : Keep it focused and to the point. Personal : Share your motivation for applying and what you hope to achieve. Action-oriented : Mention specific ideas or initiatives you’d like to pursue. For example, you might say, “I want to improve peer support networks for Social Work students to help us all thrive academically and personally.” Gather Support If possible, get recommendations or endorsements from lecturers, peers, or previous council members. This adds credibility and shows you’re well-regarded in the community. Proofread and Review Before submitting, double-check your application for spelling and grammar. Ask a friend or mentor to review it too. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail. Tips for Acing the Interview and Campaign If your application is successful, you might be invited to an interview or asked to campaign for votes. Here’s how to prepare: Practice Your Interview Skills Prepare answers to common questions like “Why do you want to join the student council?” or “How would you handle a conflict between students?” Be authentic : Speak from the heart and share your genuine passion. Show your knowledge : Refer back to your research about the council and Social Work student needs. Plan Your Campaign If you need to campaign, keep it simple and focused: Create clear messages about what you want to achieve. Use social media to reach fellow students. Engage in conversations : Listen to what others want and show how you’ll represent them. Be approachable and positive : People vote for candidates they trust and feel connected to. Manage Your Time Balancing study and council duties can be tricky. Show that you have a plan to manage your time effectively. This reassures selectors that you’re ready for the commitment. What to Expect Once You’re on the Council Joining the student council is just the beginning. Here’s what life on the council might look like: Regular Meetings You’ll attend meetings to discuss ongoing projects, student concerns, and upcoming events. These are great opportunities to share your ideas and collaborate. Event Planning and Participation From workshops to social events, you’ll help organise activities that benefit Social Work students. This is where your creativity and organisational skills shine. Advocacy and Representation You’ll liaise with university staff and other student groups to advocate for improvements. This might involve writing proposals, attending forums, or running campaigns. Personal Growth Expect to develop skills like public speaking, teamwork, and problem-solving. You’ll also build confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and lean on your fellow council members. We’re all in this together! Making the Most of Your Student Council Experience To truly benefit from your time on the council, consider these tips: Stay organised : Use planners or apps to keep track of meetings and deadlines. Communicate openly : Keep your peers informed and seek their feedback. Be inclusive : Make sure all voices are heard, especially those who might feel marginalised. Take initiative : Don’t wait for tasks to come to you – suggest new ideas and volunteer. Reflect regularly : Think about what you’re learning and how you’re growing. Your role on the council is a chance to shape your university experience and leave a lasting legacy for future Social Work students. Applying for the student council is a rewarding journey that combines leadership, community, and personal growth. If you’re ready to step up and make a difference, start by preparing your student council application with care and confidence. Remember, every great leader started with a single step - and this could be yours. Let’s make our university a better place together!

https://knowledgeproject.com.au/ - Jack Buckskin, Kuma Kaaru The Knowledge Project is an educational initiative that promotes understanding of Kaurna history, spirituality, and language. Led by Jack Buckskin, founder of Kuma Kaaru Cultural Services, the Knowledge Project aims to foster meaningful dialogue between Kaurna people and the broader Australian community. Here's what it offers: 🌿 Purpose and Mission Bridge cultural gaps  through education and storytelling. Encourage curiosity  by allowing anonymous questions about Kaurna culture. Create safe spaces  for open and honest engagement. 📚 Core Topics Modern History : Explores Kaurna experiences from pre-colonisation to the present day. Spirituality : Highlights Kaurna customs, ceremonies, and their deep connection to country. Language : Promotes awareness and revitalization of the Kaurna language. 🎥 Multimedia Learning Offers video content  shaped by community-submitted questions. New videos are added annually , based on public interest and inquiries. 🤝 Community Engagement Visitors can submit questions anonymously , helping guide future content. The project supports reconciliation efforts  by acknowledging Traditional Custodians and respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. You can explore more or submit your own questions at The Knowledge Project . “Our conversations are made better when we have a common understanding of the facts.” - Jack Buckskin, Kuma Kaaru

Starting university is an exciting time, full of new opportunities and challenges. One of the best ways to make the most of this experience is by joining student memberships. These memberships open doors to resources, connections, and experiences that can truly enrich your time at university. As someone who’s been through it, I can say that getting involved with student memberships is a game-changer. Let’s explore why these memberships are so valuable, especially for Social Work students at Flinders University. Why Student Memberships Matter When you first arrive at university, it can feel overwhelming. There’s so much to learn, and sometimes it’s hard to know where to start. Student memberships provide a supportive community that helps you navigate this new world. They offer access to exclusive events, workshops, and networking opportunities that you might not find elsewhere. For Social Work students, this is particularly important. The field is all about connecting with people and understanding communities. Being part of a student membership group helps you build those connections early on. You get to meet peers who share your passion, learn from experienced professionals, and gain insights that go beyond textbooks. Joining a student membership also shows initiative. It’s a way to demonstrate your commitment to your studies and your future career. Employers often look for candidates who are engaged and proactive, and being part of a student group is a great way to stand out. The Benefits of Student Memberships for Social Work Students There are so many benefits to joining a student membership, especially tailored for Social Work students. Here are some of the key advantages: Access to Resources : Memberships often provide exclusive access to study materials, journals, and online libraries. This can be a huge help when you’re working on assignments or preparing for exams. Professional Development : Workshops and seminars on topics like ethics, case management, and community engagement are often available. These sessions help you develop skills that are essential for your future career. Networking Opportunities : You get to meet professionals, alumni, and fellow students who can offer advice, mentorship, and even job leads. Social Events : University life isn’t just about studying. Student memberships organise social events that help you relax, make friends, and build a support network. Volunteering and Placement Support : Many memberships assist with finding volunteer roles or placements, which are crucial for gaining practical experience in Social Work. By joining the student membership benefits offered through the Flinders University Social Work Association (FUSWA), you’re stepping into a community that’s designed to support your academic and professional journey. How to Make the Most of Your Membership Joining is just the first step. To really benefit, you need to get involved. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your student membership: Attend Events Regularly Whether it’s a guest lecture, a workshop, or a social gathering, try to participate as much as you can. These events are where you’ll learn the most and meet people who can support you. Volunteer for Committees or Projects Getting involved in organising events or leading projects can boost your leadership skills and make your CV shine. Use Online Platforms Many memberships have online forums or social media groups. Engage with these platforms to stay updated and connect with others. Seek Mentorship Don’t hesitate to reach out to senior students or professionals for guidance. Mentorship can provide valuable insights and encouragement. Share Your Ideas Student memberships thrive on active participation. If you have ideas for events or initiatives, share them! Your input can make the community even better. Real-Life Impact of Student Memberships I remember when I first joined a student membership group during my studies. It wasn’t just about the perks; it was about feeling part of something bigger. I attended workshops that helped me understand real-world Social Work challenges. I met people who became lifelong friends and professional contacts. One of the most valuable experiences was volunteering through the association, which gave me hands-on experience and boosted my confidence. Many Social Work students at Flinders University have shared similar stories. They talk about how these memberships helped them find placements, prepare for interviews, and even discover new areas of interest within Social Work. The support network created through these memberships often makes the difference between feeling lost and feeling empowered. Your Next Step: Join and Thrive If you’re ready to enhance your university experience, I encourage you to explore the student membership benefits available through FUSWA. It’s more than just a membership - it’s a community that supports your growth, learning, and future career. Remember, university is not just about studying hard; it’s about growing as a person and professional. Student memberships provide the tools, connections, and opportunities to help you do just that. So why wait? Dive in, get involved, and watch how your university journey transforms. By embracing student memberships, you’re investing in yourself and your future. The benefits go far beyond the classroom, shaping you into a confident, connected, and capable Social Work professional ready to make a difference.

When I first joined the Social Work program at Flinders University, I quickly realised that the learning experience extends far beyond lectures and textbooks. One of the best ways to enrich our academic journey is by getting involved in the activities organised by the Flinders University Social Work Association (FUSWA). These activities are designed to support us socially, academically, and professionally, creating a vibrant community where we can thrive together. Whether you’re new to the campus or a seasoned student, there’s always something happening at Bedford Park Campus that can help you connect, learn, and grow. Let me take you through some of the exciting opportunities and events that FUSWA offers right here on campus. Discovering fuswa campus activities at Bedford Park FUSWA is more than just a student group; it’s a hub for all Social Work students at Flinders University. The association organises a variety of activities that cater to different interests and needs. From workshops and guest lectures to social events and volunteering opportunities, there’s something for everyone. One of the highlights is the regular skill-building workshops . These sessions cover practical topics like resume writing, interview techniques, and self-care strategies tailored specifically for social work students. They’re a fantastic way to prepare for the workforce while also connecting with peers who share your passion. Another popular activity is the peer support groups . These groups provide a safe space to discuss challenges, share experiences, and offer encouragement. It’s comforting to know you’re not alone in this journey, and these sessions often lead to lasting friendships. FUSWA also hosts networking events where students can meet professionals from the social work field. These events open doors to internships, mentorships, and job opportunities. Plus, they give you a chance to ask questions and gain insights from those already working in the industry. Relaxing outdoor spaces at Bedford Park Campus where students gather between activities How to get involved with fuswa campus activities Getting involved with FUSWA activities at Bedford Park Campus is straightforward and welcoming. You don’t need to be an expert or have prior experience—just a willingness to participate and learn. Here’s how you can start: Join the FUSWA mailing list : This is the best way to stay updated on upcoming events and opportunities. You’ll receive regular emails with details about workshops, social gatherings, and volunteer calls. Follow FUSWA on social media : They post event reminders, student spotlights, and useful resources. It’s a great way to engage with the community online. Attend the orientation events : At the beginning of each semester, FUSWA hosts welcome sessions where you can meet the committee members and fellow students. Volunteer for events : Helping out at FUSWA activities is a fantastic way to build your skills and meet new people. Plus, it looks great on your CV! Suggest new ideas : FUSWA values student input. If you have an idea for a workshop or social event, don’t hesitate to share it. By taking these steps, you’ll quickly feel part of the supportive network that FUSWA fosters at Bedford Park. Can you park at Bedford Park? If you’re planning to attend FUSWA activities or classes at Bedford Park Campus, you might be wondering about parking options. The good news is that Bedford Park offers several parking facilities for students and visitors. There are multiple car parks around the campus, including both free and paid options. Early arrival is recommended, especially during peak times, to secure a spot close to your destination. Some parking areas require a permit, so it’s worth checking the university’s parking guidelines before you come. For those who prefer sustainable travel, there are also bike racks and public transport options nearby. Taking the bus or cycling can be a stress-free way to get to campus while reducing your environmental footprint. If you’re attending a specific FUSWA event, sometimes the association provides information about the best parking spots or alternative transport options in their event announcements. Keep an eye out for those details to make your visit as smooth as possible. High angle view of the main parking lot at Bedford Park Campus Volunteering and community engagement through FUSWA One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of FUSWA is the chance to engage with the wider community. Volunteering is a core part of social work values, and FUSWA offers plenty of opportunities to get involved. Throughout the year, FUSWA organises community outreach programs, charity drives, and awareness campaigns. These activities not only help those in need but also give us practical experience in organising and participating in social initiatives. For example, last semester, FUSWA coordinated a food drive to support local shelters. Many students volunteered to collect donations, sort items, and distribute them. It was inspiring to see how much we could achieve together. Volunteering with FUSWA also helps build your professional network. You’ll meet community leaders, social workers, and other students who share your commitment to making a difference. If you’re interested in volunteering, keep an eye on the FUSWA calendar and sign up early. These activities often fill up quickly, and they’re a fantastic way to apply what you’re learning in class to real-world situations. Close-up of donation boxes used in a FUSWA community food drive Making the most of your time at Bedford Park with FUSWA Balancing study, social life, and self-care can be challenging, but FUSWA activities at Bedford Park Campus are designed to support you in all these areas. By participating, you’ll not only enhance your academic experience but also build friendships and professional connections that last beyond university. Here are some tips to make the most of your involvement: Plan ahead : Check the FUSWA event calendar regularly and mark dates in your planner. Be open : Try new activities even if they’re outside your comfort zone. You might discover new interests or skills. Connect : Use events as an opportunity to meet people from different year levels and backgrounds. Reflect : After each activity, take a moment to think about what you learned and how it applies to your studies and future career. Give back : Consider volunteering or helping organise events to deepen your engagement. Remember, FUSWA is here to help you succeed and feel supported throughout your social work journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the committee if you have questions or need advice. For more information about the association and upcoming activities, visit the fuswa bedford park website. It’s a fantastic resource to stay connected and informed. Getting involved with FUSWA at Bedford Park Campus truly enriches the social work student experience. From skill-building workshops to community volunteering, these activities offer practical benefits and a sense of belonging. I encourage you to dive in, explore what’s on offer, and make the most of your time here. Together, we can build a supportive, vibrant community that empowers us all to succeed.

Starting university is an exciting chapter, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between lectures, assignments, and new social circles, it’s easy to feel lost or disconnected. That’s where student associations come in. They’re not just clubs or groups; they’re vibrant communities that can transform your university experience. From building friendships to boosting your career, student associations offer a wealth of benefits that make university life richer and more rewarding. Why Student Associations Matter: Student Association Benefits Joining a student association is one of the best decisions you can make during your university years. These groups are designed to support students academically, socially, and professionally. Here’s why they matter: Community and Belonging : University can sometimes feel like a big, impersonal place. Student associations create a smaller, welcoming community where you can find friends who share your interests and values. Skill Development : Beyond textbooks, associations offer opportunities to develop leadership, communication, and organisational skills. These are invaluable for your future career. Academic Support : Many associations organise study groups, workshops, and guest lectures that complement your coursework. Networking : They connect you with peers, alumni, and professionals, opening doors to internships, jobs, and mentorship. Advocacy and Representation : Associations often represent student voices in university decisions, ensuring your concerns and needs are heard. For example, the flinders university student association plays a crucial role in supporting Social Work students by providing resources, events, and a platform to connect with others in the field. How Student Associations Enhance Academic and Social Life Balancing study and social life is a challenge, but student associations make it easier and more enjoyable. Here’s how they enhance both: Academic Support and Resources Student associations often organise: Study groups where you can collaborate and clarify difficult topics. Workshops on research methods, writing skills, or exam preparation. Guest speakers from the industry or academia who provide insights beyond the classroom. Access to resources like textbooks, software, or databases. These activities help you stay on top of your studies and deepen your understanding of your field. Social Events and Networking University isn’t just about studying. It’s also about building friendships and professional networks. Associations host: Social gatherings like BBQs, movie nights, or cultural celebrations. Professional networking events where you can meet potential employers or mentors. Volunteering opportunities that allow you to give back and gain practical experience. These events create a sense of belonging and help you build connections that last beyond university. Practical Ways to Get Involved and Make the Most of Your Association Getting involved in a student association might feel intimidating at first, but it’s easier than you think. Here are some practical tips to help you dive in: Attend Orientation Events : These are designed to introduce you to the association and its members. Join Committees or Clubs : Start small by joining a committee or club that interests you. It’s a great way to meet people and contribute. Volunteer for Events : Helping organise events is a fantastic way to develop skills and feel part of the community. Use Online Platforms : Many associations have social media groups or forums where you can stay updated and connect virtually. Ask Questions : Don’t hesitate to reach out to current members or leaders. They’re usually very welcoming and happy to help. By taking these steps, you’ll quickly find your place and start reaping the benefits. Building Confidence and Leadership Through Association Involvement One of the most rewarding aspects of joining a student association is the chance to build confidence and leadership skills. Here’s how involvement helps: Taking on Roles : Whether it’s organising an event or managing communications, leadership roles challenge you to step up. Public Speaking : Presenting ideas or leading meetings improves your communication skills. Problem Solving : Handling unexpected issues during events teaches resilience and adaptability. Teamwork : Working with diverse groups helps you understand different perspectives and collaborate effectively. These experiences are not only fulfilling but also highly valued by employers. They show you can take initiative and work well with others. Why Social Work Students Should Engage with Their Student Association For Social Work students, being part of a student association is especially beneficial. Social Work is a field that thrives on connection, empathy, and community engagement. Here’s why involvement matters: Peer Support : Social Work studies can be emotionally demanding. Associations provide a safe space to share experiences and support each other. Professional Development : Associations often organise workshops on topics like ethics, advocacy, and field placements. Community Engagement : Many associations partner with local organisations, giving you hands-on experience and a chance to make a difference. Career Opportunities : Networking events and alumni connections can help you find internships and jobs in the social work sector. If you’re studying Social Work at Flinders University, the flinders university student association is a fantastic resource to tap into for all these benefits and more. Embracing the Full University Experience Together University is more than just lectures and exams. It’s a time to grow, explore, and connect. Student associations are the heart of this experience. They empower us to learn beyond the classroom, build lasting friendships, and prepare for our future careers. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to explore what your student association offers. Attend an event, join a committee, or simply reach out to meet new people. You’ll find that being part of a student association doesn’t just enhance your university life - it transforms it. Remember, we’re all in this together, and the support and opportunities that come from student associations can make all the difference. flinders university student association

Student Membership Exclusive Benefits for Social Work Students "We know how challenging it can be to manage expenses while studying, and that’s why we provide a special membership discount for social work students, offering quality support and resources for just 15 cents a day." (AASW)

I don't know about you, but as a social work student, one of the most challenging aspects of BSW has been grappling with the myriad of theories we study. From Systems Theory to Strengths-Based Practice, each framework offers unique insights into human behaviour and social issues. However, the sheer volume of theories can feel overwhelming, especially when considering how they apply to different contexts in the field. Once we graduate, it's crucial to understand that various agencies often prioritise specific theories based on their focus and clientele. For instance, a mental health service might emphasize Trauma-Informed Care, while a community organization might lean towards Empowerment Theory. This variability adds another layer of complexity; we need to adapt our theoretical knowledge to fit the specific needs of our future clients and the philosophies of the organizations we join. Remembering each theory's nuances and applications is essential, but it’s equally important to cultivate a flexible mindset. Engaging in ongoing professional development and staying open to learning will help us navigate the diverse theoretical landscape. Ultimately, our ability to apply these theories effectively will shape our practice and impact the lives of those we serve. Embracing this challenge will empower us to become adaptable and effective social workers. To help towards this, I recently came across a webpage with a range of common theories and practice models used in Social Work. Each of the social work theories outlined on the page, apply to micro, mezzo, and macro practice spheres . " Theories Used in Social Work " by Kasia Kovacs (published on December 02, 2020) , as part of Social Work Guide Staff. Hope you find it as useful as I have whilst I've been on Field Placement. Lucas

I have been on my placement for over two weeks now, and things are starting to fall into place. I am placed in the Aboriginal homelessness/housing crisis sector and spent the first few days trying to understand the policies, legislation and complexity of the housing system. Homelessness is much more than people sleeping rough, it has a background involving trauma, mental health concerns, domestic violence, isolation and at times, policies that largely suit the dominant population in Australia. In many Aboriginal communities, the concept of kinship and family unit is vastly different from the definition of the western family unit. People can come down to visit and stay with each other for months. For e.g. An Aboriginal family coming down from Northern Territory to their relatives in Adelaide during the summer months. This means that Aboriginal people are often at risk of losing their homes, or rentals because of overcrowding. I find this definition to be insensitive and biased against the Aboriginal communities because we have a similar system back in my home country, where a house extends its support to the extended family and community. When we say that colonisation continues to take place in Australia, it is referring to these policies which discriminate against Aboriginal communities. In my observation, I find that these matters are often hidden from the general public, who are still to learn so much more about the Aboriginal way of life. So, when the opportunity came up, I asked my supervisor whether I could attend “Closing the Gap Day” on 16th March 2023. The event was held at the Jubilee Pavilion at Adelaide Showgrounds, a space large enough to accommodate thousands of patrons. When I reached there, I was delighted to see a large number of Aboriginal and Non-Indigenous people waiting in line to experience and support the event. When I went inside, there were hundreds of stalls with infographics, statistics and brochures on health care, aged care, disability, employment, homelessness, youth services etc. Native geckos, snakes and other reptiles were showcased to make the event interesting to a large number of school students. That view instilled hope in me for future generations as they learn more about the land on which they live in. There were also many food stalls and freebies on offer, making it a complete carnival. I would recommend every social work student to attend such events, as it opens our eyes to the scale of work left to be done. For eg., One of the most common issues faced by the Aboriginal community today is the lack of access to adequate dental and eye care. This may sound completely unrelated to the work we do. But the more I learn, the more I find how interconnected so many of the issues are. Links for more information - https://www.facebook.com/closethegapcampaign/ https://closethegap.org.au/close-the-gap-day/ https://www.niaa.gov.au/resource-centre/indigenous-affairs/commonwealth-closing- gap-implementation-plan-2023 Aakaash Chiramal MSW Student @ Flinders University

Welcome to the Flinders University Social Work Association (FUSWA) Student Study Blogs and Student Forums. (Rules & Warnings - Read and Adhere to) We are just beginning our journey in providing students what we feel is high quality, valuable information to assist them towards academic improvement, and hopefully help all BSW & MSW students discover some great skills along the way. RULES & WARNINGS To leave a comment on any post, you MUST signup using your FAN (student email). Any Member found using an email that does not contain @flinders.edu.au will be removed. Be Respectful when Commenting. No Inappropriate Language. No Spamming. No Pornographic/Adult/other NSFW Material. No Advertisements. No Offensive Content. No Direct & Indirect Threats. Any 'comment' not adhering to the Flinders Academic Integrity Policy, or goes against the above set of Rules, will be removed, and members may find themselves banned indefinitely. By commenting on the FUSWA Student Study Blog (including all future posts), and posting on the Student Forum, you automatically accept and adhere to the Rules above, and will be responsible for your own actions, including any consequences that come from those actions. Let's keep this fair, respectful and on point to the purpose of these tools. Thank you. The FUSWA Team Subscribe to follow the journey.

Inspire Change! Inspire Change is a mentoring program which encourages year 12 first-in family students to explore their next steps after graduation and consider university as a desired option for their future. Flinders is looking for Uni students from Education/Social Work degrees to work 1-on-1 with school students for 1 hour per week, for up to 10 weeks. Mentoring has a huge impact on a school student’s life, giving confidence and motivation for the future. As a mentor, you can inspire those around you to look further into their futures! Flinders offers workshops, financial assistance, campus experiences and mentoring to motivate future study choices. Training is provided! Website: www.flinders.edu.au/inspire Application form: https://form.jotform.com/220870719118861 Email: inspire@flinders.edu.au Phone: +61 82017884 Flinders University College of Education, Psychology & Social Work (BSW & MSW ) *Graphic kindly created and provided by Kerelos Kolta (FPSA Social Media Officer)

We thought the best way to start the ball rolling was to include the range of Study Support Options available directly from Flinders. The information below is all available from the Student Support page located on https://students.flinders.edu.au/support. Brought to you by FUSWA

Congratulations on becoming a Social Work Student at Flinders University! The first year at Flinders can bring with it a mix of emotions. The excitement and jubilation of receiving your confirmation, knowing that you have been accepted as a university student, is often followed by the daunting reality that there is so much to do, before you even start your first lecture. It's usually at this point, many new students at the beginning of their academic journey can become overwhelmed. First year students may even start freaking out with the feeling that they have so much to do, have absolutely no idea what needs to be done, or even where to start. Whilst others may believe they are across everything, only to find a few weeks into the semester that they've missed something, only to find themselves in catch-up mode. Either way, as a student of Flinders University, you are not alone and you'll soon discover that 2nd, 3rd and even 4th year students can sometimes feel the same way at the beginning of a new year, as you do right now. But.....it's not all that scary! You will soon discover that university brings with it a whole world of support, be it from the College (including staff) , your FUSWA Team, FUSA, or the student community (your peers). As a new student (or even if you are a returning student who just needs some guidance) , we have put together a few things below to aid you in your academic journey. CEPSW Firstly, the best place to start is to reach out to the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work (CEPSW) and chat with the enrollments team about Study Plans. Study Plans are the road map to topics and what direction to take should you need to change you course structure, or just know what you need to do each semester. We highly recommend students send through an email at the end of each semester to get their Study Plan updated. Reach out to CEPSW and organise a meeting in person, or over the phone. They will be able to answer the majority of your questions and provide amazing support throughout your academic journey. CEPSW contact information - Email: ​ courseadvice.epsw@flinders.edu.au ​Telephone: (08) 8201 7800 FUSWA Reach out to the Flinders University Social Work Association (FUSWA) and ask for help. The FUSWA Team are made up of students at different stages of their degree, and pathways (BSW & MSW) , and have been exactly where you are right now. Connect with FUSWA - fuswa.team@gmail.com O'WEEK Come along to O'Week and make sure you visit the various stalls, and events. This fun week, starting at the beginning of every semester, provides you an opportunity to meet other students, the FUSWA Team, and attend events that give you a great kick start to your year. O'Week @ Flinders FUSA The Flinders University Student Association (FUSA) provides a range of support to all students. The Committee, made up of students from different disciplines, are always on hand to help. Connect with FUSWA STUDENT SOCIAL MEDIA You have a range of Facebook Pages, Messenger and Chats to join that can help you connect with other Social Work Students. FUSWA Facebook Page Flinders University Social Work Students Join the Social Work Students Messenger Community Chat Masters of Social Work at Flinders External Students BSW Online Discussion Forum Overheard At Flinders University FUSA Flinders University Student Association If you discover other things that help you, let the FUSWA Team know and we can include them on this Blog. But for now, we hope this helps, and you have an awesome experience at Flinders! The FUSWA Team