5 things to know for your first day of university

Welcome to university!

To be prepared as possible for your first day with us at Murdoch, we’ve created a list of 5 things you need to know for the first day of university. From what to bring, where to go, and what to wear.

1. How to get to the Murdoch campus

There are plenty of ways to get to campus. Whether you’re arriving by car, bike, or public transport, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Driving to uni  

If you’re driving to uni, the first thing you’ll need to do is arrange a parking permit which you can do online or at the Student Centre located on level 3 of Boola Katitjin. Once you’ve got your parking permit, check out where your classes will be and where the closest car parks are. Keep in mind there are different parking zones, so make sure to check which ones you can and can’t use. 

Public transport

Catching public transport? No problem. Our South Street campus is only a 5-minute walk from the Murdoch Station. To help you find the best mode of transport and fastest route, check out the Transperth Journey Planner. If you’re studying with us full-time you could also be eligible for discounted travel – you can verify this on the Transperth website or at the Guild Kiosk on campus.

2. What to bring to uni

Wondering what you’ll need to bring on your first day? Your student card will be handy for all things printing, photocopying, and of course, identification. If you haven’t already, you can organise your student card with the Student Centre. Remember to take acceptable forms of identification with you when you pick it up so staff can verify your identity.

Besides your student card, here are a few other things you’ll need:

• Something to write with – an obvious one but it’s always an easy one to forget!
• Notebooks.
• Laptop, or other digital device. This one is not a necessity but more of a personal preference. If you don’t have a device or don’t want to bring one, you can use the uni computers in the library.
• KeepCup. Bringing your own coffee cup can score you discounted coffee at a number of cafes around campus.
• Drink bottle. There are plenty of places to fill up your bottle around campus, so you can keep hydrated and focused in class.

Once you’ve gathered everything you need, find yourself something sturdy and comfortable like a backpack or canvas bag to safely carry all your precious belongings. You’re able to bring your bags into class with you, so there’s no need to use a locker (unless you want to).

3. Student support services available at uni

myMurdoch Advice locations

There are three myMurdoch Advice locations around our South Street campus (East, West, and in the Library). Drop in between 8.30am and 4.30pm to get advice on everything from learning, study, and health and wellbeing to get the most out of your university experience.

Drop into one of the locations or email advice@murdoch.edu.au to chat with a member of the support team.

The Student Centre

Visit the Student Centre to get information about class timetables, course advice, enrolment, and parking permits. You can find them on level 3 inside Boola Katitjin – the same place you can get your parking permit. You can also get in touch with the Student Centre by calling 1300 687 3624 or emailing studentcentre@murdoch.edu.au.

The Guild

Getting involved with campus life is a great way to meet new people and make the most out of your uni experience. Check out the Murdoch Guild for info about clubs, societies and student events happening around campus – from market days every Thursday, to Festival Day, International Food Day and Stamp Out Stress Day.

To get in touch with the Guild, you can contact them online, call 9360 2158 or email contact@murdochguild.edu.au.

Careers Centre

It may be your first day at uni but if you’re looking to get straight into opportunities to benefit your future career, check out the Careers Centre. Workshops, networking events, support services and career-building opportunities are offered all year round.

Health and counselling

Managing stress

It's normal to feel stressed or anxious about the move from high school to university. It's a big change but an exciting one, a chance for you to enjoy some freedom and independence, find your passion and focus on how you can impact the world.   

4. Food and facilities on campus

Where to buy food on campus

As much as you’d like to be a lunch-prepping pro, we know it sometimes just doesn’t happen. Thankfully, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to food on campus.

Nibble on something tasty from the Student Hub with vendors like Courtside, Roll'd, Chatime, Sir Walter’s Restaurant, Chinese Canton, Pattysmiths, and Di Bello’s Pasta e Pizza (side note: most vendors accept card payments but if you need cash there are ATMs located on campus). Our South Street campus also has its very own IGA store!

Bush Court

If you’re looking for a scenic spot to recharge between classes or take a study break, Bush Court is the place to go.  There’s also the Chinese Gardens, Banksia Court, and the Peace Pavilion (you can find them on a map here).

Geoffrey Bolton Library

The Geoffrey Bolton Library (or aptly just known as ‘the library’) is a great place to find resources and study material to support your study. This is the campus’s main library and is located in Building 350, looking out onto bush court

The Geoffrey Bolton Library is also where you’ll find the Launchpad, the perfect environment for a budding entrepreneur.

5. What to wear to uni

Something comfortable! It’s a big campus and chances are you’ll be walking around a lot from class to class, so comfy shoes are the best option.  Think casual clothes like jeans, a t-shirt, and closed in shoes (especially if you’ll be working in the labs).

But no matter what you choose to wear, we know you’ll look fabulous!