Faculty of Science  first year students are already getting to know Charles Sturt University (CSU) better, despite the fact that classes won’t begin until next month.

 

The University's Student Transition and Retention (STAR) program will include two innovative new prongs in 2013; the Sci FYE program for students in the Faculty of Science and an information pack for Paramedic students.

 

Faculty of Science STAR program academic lead, Ms Jennifer Cox, said the Sci FYE program was designed to help new students adjust to the university environment.

 

“This program reaches out to students from the moment of offer acceptance and provides a known platform, Facebook, through which they can reach into the unknown of university life and study,” she said.

 

“Through Facebook and related Charles Sturt University student internet tools, the students will be able to connect with peers, interact with support staff and get information about key preparatory processes.

 

“The Faculty will also use this program to communicate key events, opportunities, provide answers to frequently asked questions and generally work to help ensure students’ expectations reflect the university experience.”

 

Meanwhile, the Faculty of Science STAR team has further developed an information pack for all first-year Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic) students.

 

The mail-out pack includes a DVD introducing the CSU Vice-Chancellor Professor Andrew Vann, an interview with practicing paramedic Superintendent Brad Porter, interviews with current students from the program, and information on how to prepare for the course.

 

“There is some preparation involved for students in the paramedic program, including obtaining their driver’s licence, completing their vaccinations, obtaining police background checks and purchasing their uniform and equipment,” Ms Cox said.

 

“The information pack was very effective in increasing the rate of preparation last year and this year will include additional information based on staff and student feedback from 2012.

 

“By helping students be better prepared to begin their studies, we hope we can ease their transition into university and make the experience a positive one.”