Tip #3 Using Free Services

I’m posting one takeaway each day this week from my first semester at uni. What actually helped, what surprised me, and what I’d tell someone starting fresh. Let me know if any of it hits home!

Use the free stuff.
University is full of free resources - genuinely helpful ones.
They’re not just for students in crisis. They’re for everyone. And using them early can make everything smoother and less overwhelming.

Here’s what helped me this semester:
💁‍♀️ Tutors
I emailed mine regularly with small questions or just to say thanks. That built trust. It made me feel more comfortable speaking up or asking for clarification in class.
→ A quick message can change how safe a subject feels.

🗣️ 1-on-1 appointments
I booked a meeting with Amanda White OAM in the beginning of this semester to talk about neurodivergence in the accounting profession, not even subject content, but something personal. It gave me a kind of motivation that had nothing to do with marks, I just felt more connected to the content.
UTS Careers also helped me with my résumé and gave me clarity on my career direction.
→ You don’t need to be struggling to book one. 1-on-1’s are useful for big decisions, small questions, or anything in between.

📌 U:PASS
I attended three peer-led sessions. They were casual, flexible, and run by someone who’d already aced the subject. I didn’t go to more (my learning style is quite independent), but I always recommend them.
→ It’s a safe space to ask questions and learn from other students.

📚 Library services
The Assistive Technology Room was my quiet zone this semester. I also tried out a couple of helpful workshops hosted by the Library (like Copilot and OneNote).
Not vibing with noisy study areas? Use the library website to book your own room.
→ There’s more support in the library than you think.

🖇️ UTS HELPS
I joined writing and presentation workshops. The advice was clear and directly improved my assignments.
→ They’re a great first stop when you’re unsure about structure, tone, or where to begin.

⭐ Accessibility
I registered early as an autistic student and joined the “6 Weeks to Success” program. It gave me practical strategies and a sense of community I didn’t expect. Hayley Woodrow facilitated with genuine care, it was the first space where I felt fully understood in a uni setting.
→ If you have a disability, chronic health condition, learning difficulty or mental health issue, it’s worth registering early. Support is there when you need it.

Final thought:
These services are free.
They’re run by people who want you to succeed.
They made my semester calmer, easier, and more enjoyable.
Use them.