BY ERIN CONSTABLE

After two years of predominantly online learning, many third-year students are returning to university and experiencing on-campus learning for the first time. 

Third-year engineering student, Tom Newton, 20, described a “much better learning experience” since returning to campus in February this year. 

“You are getting what you know you paid for, access to all the facilities that convinced you to come to Monash University,” Mr Newton said. 

A Monash University spokesperson said access to facilities and social outlets was a major benefit of studying on campus.

“Students who are able to return to campus will again have access to activities and interactions that have been missing from the overall student experience for some time, whether it be sporting, cultural, educational or social, there is something for everyone," the spokesperson said.

"We are doing all we can to also stream and engage overseas students in these experiences too."

However, many third-year students said they felt unprepared for graduation, or future careers, due to missing out on practical skills and network opportunities in their first two years of study. 

Third-year Science and Global Studies student Arianna Wright, 19, said she was unprepared for graduation both “mentally and content wise”. 

“If I was graduating now, I would absolutely not feel prepared,” Ms Wright said. 

The Monash University spokesperson highlighted students' access to “unparalleled and unique access to career support” through Monash Career Connect and Monash Talent. 

“This includes career connect job application and interview skills, career coaching for our penultimate and final year students with a qualified career counsellor, and leadership development," the spokesperson said.

Career Connect also provides programs and workshops to deepen students' employability skills to assist the transition into the workforce, including Monash Talent which provides placements with some of the most well-known and impactful industry partners."

Mr Newton, however, said he was optimistic about the skills he learned during the pandemic lockdowns.

“The industry would have adapted to online life as well. …. as much as I did miss out on these theoretical skills and even networking …. the skills you get from how to work effectively at home is hopefully going to be transferable into a future career,” Mr Newton said. 

According to the Monash University spokesperson, the amount of opportunities and events being offered in 2022 encouraged participation from students to make the most of university life and preparation for future jobs and careers. 

Monash University students can access support services here. Support is also available through MONSU at Caulfield here. Clayton students can access MSA support services here.