Dear students, it was fantastic to visit the UAE last week to meet with staff, students, alumni and the greater UOWD community. It was fabulous to be there for two graduation ceremonies, seeing the joy of graduates, families and friends. And speaking of graduation, I’m very much looking forward to celebrating with our graduating students next week on our Wollongong campus!
UOW’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
In exciting news, UOW has placed in the top 20 universities in the world for eight of the seventeen UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is ranked equal 70th in the world for social and economic impact. Here is a snapshot of some of the work UOW is doing to meet the SDGs. #UOWproud
The art of sharing in our loneliness
UOW alumna, Tessa Blencowe currently has an immersive art show called Lonely Together on display in Sydney’s Darling Quarter. Similar to a show she exhibited in London, Tessa’s artwork features photographic portraits and audio recordings of people sharing their experiences of loneliness. The UOW business and journalism graduate-turned-counsellor has spent years learning what it means for people to be lonely, and how we can address it as a society. We all experience loneliness in some form and at some point in our lives. It can even be an ongoing experience – but sharing in that feeling can be extremely helpful. Tessa’s artwork addresses the stigma of loneliness, “hopefully it helps people understand it better, and also use it as a tool to shift the conversation and make it more open and okay to talk about.”
UOW financial planning students Bonnie and Jarrod win in prestigious industry competition
Well done to two UOW students Bonnie O’Donnell and Jarrod Walter who placed 1st and 3rd (respectively) at the AMP University Challenge. During the challenge against various students from other Universities, they were tested on their financial planning technical knowledge, had to undertake a mock advice interview with two clients and delivered a presentation on how to best advise their clients. Bonnie, who is also a full-time firefighter for Fire Rescue NSW, plans to become an ethical-first financial adviser after she graduates, focusing on contributing to the wellness of her community. Congratulations to you both – the future is looking bright!
Stress Less Week and the lead up to exams
Being the last week of lectures for most students, and with exams and assignments just around the corner, I wanted to send my warmest wishes your way. Thinking back on my uni exams, I remember always feeling calmer when I’d done all I could to be as prepared as possible. Here’s a great list of resources for ensuring you’re prepared.
Don’t forget, this week is also Stress Less Week – with many resources and activities designed to help you keep calm and do your best. Be sure to check out what’s on offer. And if procrastination can be a hindrance to your study, this article has some amazing tips on how to make it work for you!
Happy Diwali
Finally, on Monday night UOW Pulse held an event for the beginning of Diwali, one of the most popular festivals within Hinduism. Diwali symbolizes “the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”. I would like to wish a happy Diwali to all students celebrating this festival of lights!
Hope everyone has an enjoyable and productive final week of session.
My best,
Trish