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More than your ATAR: Where to Start

By July 24, 2019No Comments

Committing to a university or VET education is a foundational decision. Foundational in the way that it’s going to mean great things for you … in the end. You may have a few detours, but that can add to the atmosphere sometimes!

As well as judging courses using ATAR data profiles as a guide there are non-ATAR pathways to university, and many sources of financial support to consider (once you’ve got the bug for applying for a CEF education grant, you’ll gain more confidence about the submission process!).

This may not be the best news for those already struggling with choice, but it’s good to consider that study may be preparing you for jobs that haven’t even been invented yet.

So, where do you start?

It may seem like a sidestep here, but it’s essential you are making decisions for the right reasons for you.

Try to work out what you’re interested in. Start with eliminating what subjects don’t excite you. Remember this is a long term decision so you should be passionate!

Ask yourself:

  • What are you good at?
  • What subjects do you like?
  • What are your interests outside of school?

This is where to good ol’ fashioned research is going to play an essential part.

  • Talk with your teachers, tutors, career advisor and family;
  • Think about what area you’d like a career and what jobs are available;
  • Attend university open days and local careers expos;
  • Increasingly, social media is a tool that can help. It’s amazing how helpful chatting with a Facebook bot via Messenger can be these days;
  • And remember these decisions don’t need to be rushed. And make sure you’re making choices for yourself (check in with yourself to make sure no-one is making this decision for you).

Read more: Here’s some extra help… Take our personality quiz to help you with extra scholarships… >> Take the quiz.

Over the next few weeks, we’re going to be exploring all the different options there are in our ‘More Than Your ATAR’ series. It’s time to consider that your university journey is more than examination results.

This educational series will be covering off such subjects as: early entry, incl. the USYD E12 scheme, university open days, special consideration, studying via distance & regional study hubs as well as tips and tricks for applying for a scholarship. We’ll be talking to all the experts – students, CEF committees, high school and university advisers to help you on this long, long windy road.

Buckle up for the adventure!

 

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