Hyde 2020 Survival Guide

WHA T YO U NE E TO K NOW D

university SURVIVAL GUIDE HYDE

WELCOME TO ALL VICTORIA UNIVERSITY STUDENTS OF 2020 AND RETURNING

contents 05

respect a safer community

07

victoria university dictionary for students

11

incoming student q & a

13

parking on campus

17

help services

21

students debt, what is it?

22

what is SSAF?

basic information about the VU Safe App, VU and external safety numbers and more

fiirst year lingo to help you understand the journey ahead in university

the questions you will ask that we have answered

a couple of maps based on where to find parking on your campus

services that can help you on your journey

what is it and how can it help you

the title speaks for itself. Inofrmation found easier for you

23

VUHQ

25

volunteering at VU

27

secret study spaces

29

how to reduce stress

31

the VU Student Union

33

what its like to be an internation student

37

going out manual

39

5 ways to be an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community

what is it and where is it located? Answered here

why its beneficial and where can you volunteer

where at Footscray Park can you study when the library is too full

some helpful tips in order to have a little less stress during your time studying at VU

who are they and what do they do?

the knowledge from an international student to another

some help to a successful night out

one community

41

easy recipes for students

45

assessments; what you need to know

47

money saving tips

48

let's talk safe sex

49

the VU Student Union 2020 events

50

university bucket list

51

be a better human

53

contributors

some awesome, quick and cheap recipes for students basic information on assessments and how to make it easier for you

we are all students and money is scimpt, how do we hold onto it

basic info to keep you safe

you don't want to miss out on anything!

the things you want to complete during your time here

check it out, you won't regret it!

the amazing people who helped make this guide possible!

RESPECT A SAFER COMMUNITY

page 5 | survive uni 2020

The VU SAFE app

The VU SAFE app has many great safety features, including; emergency alert, safety notifications, emergency contacts, request security escort, VU free service and many more.

VU and external safety contacts

re al Ca Medic ours H r e Aft

K 13 SIC

A

vices y Ser genc Emer

000

E

4 131 11

L e Lifelin or Advis ealth ent H d tu S

4417 9919

S

V VU

elling s ouns VU C unitie comm r afe S U V y ecurit VU S Union dent tu S VU

VIC 1300

VU has some great wellbeing services available and sometimes it's hard to locate where to find the numbers that are needed in order to reach the right place. There are also some exertal services that can help and may be more experienced, qualified and reachable then some of the services that VU offer. If you are in need of help and either don't feel like talking to someone at VU or can't reach them, call Lifeline, if it is an emergency please call 000.

UNI

5400 9919 5707 19 99 6666 9919 5053 9919

VU Student Union

The VU Student Union (VUSU) has an amazing support network that are there to help and advocate for students whenever and wherever possible. All members of the VUSU are students and wanting to help students out in all aspects of university life.

hyde@vustudentunion.com

Find us at

instagram.com/hyde_magazine facebook.com/HydeMagazine

The Hyde team is located in the VUSU office at Footscray Park M129

Welcome to your 'Survival Guide'. This booklet is going to help you out with the basics of surviving your time here at VU! University can be hard and finding the basics sometimes isn't a simple process, so we decided to make a little easier for you and have it all.

If there is something that isn't in this book that you want to know or need to find, you can always ask us on our socials or find us on our Footscray Park campus.

We are always around to help, give advice and support or simply just to have a chat.

Good luck to all students in your time here, Hannah Nadin Chief Editor of Hyde student magazine

page 7 | survive uni 2020

VICTORIA

UNIVERSITY

DICTIONARY FOR STUDENTS *First year lingo*

Clubs Join them! A great way to meet new people with similar interests.

Double degree

VU collaborate is a the online learning management that VU uses .

A double degree combines two degrees through to provide students with additional qualifications and employment options, but may not take double the time to complete

Counsellor

Eduroam

The Counselling services at VU are part of the Student Wellbeing department. VU's Counselling services provide professional services to enrolled students that are designed to support you in your personal, psychological, academic, and social development.

The university wireless network.

Collaborate

VU wi-fi setup: Username: s1234567@vu.edu.au Password: __________ *your password for your student email

Freshie Credit points Credit points are allocated in each unit. Most units carry a value of 12 points , with full-time study students usually undertake 48 points a semester.

Deferred study Deferred study (for school leavers) is study that is approved to begin as of the first semester of the succeeding year, allowing a 12month break between high school and tertiary study. Also known as a ‘gap year’.

A freshie is a first year student. Also known as a newbie.

Grade Point Average (GPA) A numerical grade calculation, weighted by credit points.

Marking system N - not applicable - <49% P - pass - 50%-59% C - credit - 60%-69% D - distinction - 70%-79% HD - high distinction - >80%

MyVU portal

Semester

My VU portal provides you with access to your Victoria University student details as well as accessing online tools.

A semester is the academic period of about 16 teaching weeks.

Lecture An oral presentation intended to present information to teach students on a particular topic.

Major A major is a series of units combined to satisfy the University’s requirements in an area of specialisation and includes at least two units at final year level.

Minor A minor is a series of four units in the same subject, including at least two units at second year level or higher.

Safer Communities Safer Community is a central point of enquiry, response and support for concerning, threatening or inappropriate behaviour.

We provide support at all stages of responding to complex and sensitive situations.

Seminar A class at university in which a topic is discussed by a teacher and a small group of students.

Student Wellbeing Student Wellbeing is a department at VU that focus on the wellbeing needs of students. Located in building M at Footscray Park campus on level 2.

Tutorial A tutorial is a method of transferring knowledge and may be used as a part of a learning process. More interactive and specific than a book or a lecture, a tutorial seeks to teach by example and supply the information to complete a certain task

Turnitin

Turnitin Feedback Studio can be enabled in each assessment dropbox.

Turnitin provides automatic matches against other work that is held in the database such as websites, articles, and other assignments from VU and other universities. This can be an indication of possible plagiarism.

VU App

VU Security

The VU App is designed for all current Victoria University and VU Polytechnic students.It provides a handy portal to all of your essential digital systems – so you can keep track of your classes, assignments, Essential Activities, results and more.

VU Security is responsible for the provision and co-ordination of security services across all VU campuses.

VU College Socities Our college societies give you the chance to connect with students studying similar courses. All of our college societies are proudly supported and funded by the Victoria University Student Union.

College of Arts & Education VU Business Society College of Engineering & Science College of Health and Biomedecine Society College of Law & Justice Dictum Society College of Sports & Exercise Science Society

VU Library Our online resources are available 24 hours a day from wherever you are.

You can also visit any of our seven campus libraries for help with your information needs, access to a PC or a quiet place to study.

VU Student Union (VUSU) VUSU is the PEAK REPRESENTATIVE STUDENT BODY at VU, designed to provide and advocate for students at Victoria University. VUSU also have instagram and Facebook that every student should follow to stay updated on some really amazing stuff that happens on and off campus.

VU Stalk Space VU Stalk Space is a Facebook group that the majority of VU students join to keep updated by each other on what's happening around the campuses of VU.

VUHQ VUHQ is your first point of contact for assistance, advice and support.Our Student Advisors are on hand to answer your questions and to help you access the wide range of support services at VU.

Units An individual subject within a course.

page 11 | survive uni 2020

Incoming student Q & A When is it too late to drop a subject?

The census date for each block is the second Monday of the four week period. They give you one week to pull out of the unit but if you do have a serious issue that requires you to leave your studies at any point you can apply for a remission (removal) of fees.

Follow this link for more information: https://www.vu.edu.au/current-students/your-course/fees/refunds/ remission-reversal-of-fees 2.

What sort of scholarships are there at VU? Scholarships are a great way for the university to show their support and provide assistance for students. There are many different scholarships offered at VU that you may be eligible for, such as: TAFE Bachelor degree & honours Graduate research International Externally funded Make sure you read through these scholarships cause some of them you will be eligible for. Follow this link to find out more https://www.vu.edu.au/study-at-vu/fees-scholarships/scholarships

Where do I go to change my classes or enrolment?

Most of the time you will be able to alter your units from MYVU. If it is simple you should be able to fix it by going online but if it's passed the census date or you have classes clashing or if it's a matter of course mapping, your destination is VUHQ. Most of the time they can sort out the issue for you, however sometimes they will have to send you to your CUA (Course Unit Advisor). Make sure to see the VU help services as soon as you need assistance.

How do I get involved in the uni and its life?

First things first, let's get you socials up to date, you want to follow VUSU and VU on FB and Instagram. Secondly, the university and union run so many events that give you the opportunity to mingle and get to know new people. Come with someone or come with yourself, you will always meet new people and have a great time.

As well as that, the university has a range of clubs and College Societies which you can join. They are a great way to meet people with similar interests. Joining a College Society really helps when you have friends that have already done a unit your in. The university also has a range of clubs which you can find more about in the webpage below.

Follow this link to find out about clubs and societies https://www.vu.edu.au/current-students/campus-life/clubs-student-groups/ join-a-club-or-college-society

Where can i get help with my assignments?

The Learning Hub is your one stop shop. All learning hubs are located around the campus library. Look for the colour purple and you should be able to find them. They have Student Advisors that have been trained to help you with your needs as well as academics that are available to explain those tricky subjects. The learning hub also has a helpful little tool called LH tutoring. What your able to do is submit your assessment into this service and someone will critique and analyse your assessment and return it to you with some suggestions within 48 hours. This is a free service that I definitely suggest you get on to. Sometimes it can make all the difference between a C and a D. **Extra tip: Learning hub also has this helpful little jobs board that you may be able to find some work either at the uni or externally. Make sure you have a look there if you are looking for a job.

For more information about the link https://learninghub.vu.edu.au/

learning

hub

and

LH

tutoring

follow

this

page 13 | survive uni 2020

Parking on campus

Footscray Nicholson Campus

Footscray Park Campus

Werribee West Campus

Werribee East Campus

Sunshine Campus

St Albans Campus

There's parking around our city campuses but they're not VU owned and are not cheap.

A solution to this problem would be catching public transport City Flinders campus: Flinders Street Station is across the road and their are trams that go past the campus on Flinders Street City King campus: City King campus is in between Flagstaff station and Southern Cross station. It is roughly less then a 10 minute walk from both.

City Queen campus: The closest station to the City Queen campus is Flagstaff which is less then a five minute walk

We hope this information is helpful and that your you have happy travels

page 17 | survive uni 2020

Help services VU offers a range of services for students requiring support both in their lives and studies, thereby helping them to manage their university life in a balanced way. Some of the services include: -

Accommodation and housing advice Childcare Financial and Health advice Counselling Welfare services Disability and International Student support Scholarships and Academic Career related support

For more information on these services, visit the webpage: https://www.vu.edu.au/study-at-vu/why-choose-vu/support-services-thatwork-for-you or contact the ‘Student Contact Centre’ – 1300 VIC UNI.

Student Wellbeing and Counselling services VU offers various counselling services which provide professional services to enrolled students, designed to support them in their personal, psychological, academic, and social development.

Also, a range of wellbeing resources are provided including online resources and information sheets that might be of help to students in their personal and university lives. https://www.vu.edu.au/current-students/campus-life/advice-support/counselling

Services like Individual counselling sessions helps ease the difficulties being experienced by the students, which might affect their health/studies on and off campus.

These sessions are free of cost, and to know more about them, visit the webpage: https://www.vu.edu.au/current-students/campus-life/advicesupport/counselling/individual-counselling

Safer Communities Safer Community provides advice, assistance and referrals for people who experience, witness, or receive a disclosure of concerning, threatening or inappropriate behaviour. The behaviour might occur at VU or affect your work or study at VU. Concerning, threatening and inappropriate behaviour includes: -

bullying family violence harassment mental health concerns sexual offences stalking threats

Visit the Safer Community website for more information about these concerning behaviours, including fact sheets, statistics, support services, and relevant policies. VUSafe mobile app is free to download for iOS and Android. It has all of VU's safety, security and support services in one place. For more information contact Safer Community; phone: 03 9919 5707 or email: safer.community@vu.edu.au

Respect & Responsibility VU offers the Respect and Responsibility program which challenges the gender stereotyping and builds a culture of safety and respect, thus, changing attitudes and behaviors around sexual assault and harassment. This program implements the University’s Preventing Violence Against Women Ten Point Plan.

To know more about this program or to be a part of it, please email respect.responsibility@vu.edu.au or visit the webpage :https://www.vu.edu.au/about-vu/university-profile/diversityinclusion/respect-responsibility Find Our Voices, Reclaiming Our Spaces mural painted by students and staff at Footscray Park Campus on International Women’s Day 2018.

Security VU Security is responsible for the provision and co-ordination of security services across all Victoria University campuses. The primary function of security is the protection of people and property, as well as the prevention and detection of crime across the University.

The Security Operations Centre emergency phone number is 9919 6666 for immediate assistance (24/7) across all VU campuses. Some of the other security services available are : - Security escorts (through various buildings on campus to your vehicle) - Shuttle Buses (Footscray Park, Footscray Nicholson and St Albans campuses. Free shuttle transfers too and from the university and local train stations).

Reports can be made either in person at a campus security office, or by calling the Security Operations Centre (Phone: 9919 4999).

Student Health Advisor Our Health Advisor at VU can provide advice, information and referrals. Check our wellbeing resources for information on how to stay physically and mentally healthy. We also have several health and wellbeing clinics where you can receive treatments such as: -

Dermal therapy Massage Osteopathy Counselling.

For more information on how to book appointments, contact our Health Advisor: Phone: 9919 4417 Email: healthadvice@vu.edu.au or refer to the webpage: https://www.vu.edu.au/currentstudents/campus-life/advice-support/health-advice

Advocacy Student Advocacy provides you with advice, support, representation and assistance with the preparation and presentation of your views. We are guided by VU's Independent Advocacy Service Charter for Students, which outlines our commitment to providing confidential support to students.Student Advocacy will provide advice, or help you to prepare and present your own views, with regards to: - Your academic progress - When your course progress is unsatisfactory - Show cause hearings - Student appeals related to your academic progress - Attending an academic misconduct hearing (e.g. if you have been accused of plagiarism or cheating) and many more cases like these.

For contacting advocacy or to make a complaint to advocacy, please visit the webpage : https://www.vu.edu.au/current-students/campus-life/advice-support/student-advocacy/contactstudent-advocacy or call 9919 5400

Learning Hub Learning Hubs are welcoming, collaborative spaces that provide academic support and career guidance. We offer essential activities, practical workshops and drop-in sessions to all of our students – from first year to postgraduate study – as well as 24/7 online advice and support. Dedicated advisers in maths, writing, careers, and research and referencing help design our services and resources.

Student Mentors offer invaluable support and guidance. Learning Hub online (external link) can be accessed at any time, using your Student ID and password. Our 24/7 after-hours advice Learning Hub Tutoring takes enquiries anytime via chat – and you can submit your work any time for review.

If you have any queries, please email the Learning Hub team: learninghub@vu.edu.au

page 21 | survive uni 2020 Student

debt

what

is

it

Student Fees As a student you have the right to know how much you pay for your course and if you can receive fee assistance which depends on you study level and if you’re a domestic or international student.

Commonwealth Supported Students You must register in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) to be known as a Commonwealth supported students, in doing so, your fees are partly paid by the government and you DO NOT have to pay this amount back. You pay the rest of the remaining fees. To enrol for a CSP, you must be an Australian citizen, New Zealand Citizen or a permanent residency.

Higher Education Commonwealth Support (HECS) As a student registered with CSP, you are able to receive help paying your student fees through Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) HECS-HELPS is an investment that helps CSP students to pay their student fees. You can choose to either have all or part of you fees paid by the Government through Victoria University and is documented with the Australian Tax Office (ATO) You wil have to repay the loan through the tax system once you starte the earning above the minimum repayment threshold.

VET Student Loan The VET Student Loan (VSL) is Commonwealth loan that help students, studying diploma or higher to pay their fees.

To receive a VET Student Loan, you must: - be studying an approved course - provide a parent/guardian consent form if under the age of 18 -be academically suited -meet residency requirements -have not exceeded the VETSL debt (VET Student Loan debt) limit -have not exceeded the course cap -meet the Tax File Number (TFN) requirements -have a Unique Student Identifier (USI)

What

is

SSAF?

The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) is a compulsory fee for students charged by most universities annually. It is used to improve the provision of non-academic services and amenities, not directly related to your course.

SSAF funds student clubs and societies, support services such as counselling, advocacy and financial advice, events and activities on campus, sport and recreational activities as well as improving facilities in student lounges and learning spaces. SSAF is mainly paid as a part of the tuition fee.

SSAF funds: The VU Student Union Student Life Student Wellbeing Student Leadership VU Sport Student Services Student Communication

page 27 | survive uni 2020

WHERE IS

VUHQ

THE STUDENT SERVICES VUHQ is your first point of contact for assistance, advice and support. Each VU campus has one and here's where you can find them: City King Campus Location: 2.009, Level 2, 225 King Street, Melbourne City Queen Campus Location: Reception 1.11, Level 1, 295 Queen Street, Melbourne Footscray Nicholson Campus Location: T131, Level 1, Building T, corner Nicholson and Buckley Streets, Footscray Footscray Park Campus Location: Level 1, Building M, 70-104 Ballarat Road, Footscray

St Albans Campus Location: 4N141, Level 1, Building 4N, McKechnie Street, St Albans Sunshine Campus

Location: C121, Level 1, Building C, 460 Ballarat Road, Sunshine Werribee Campus Location: 1B102, Level 1, Building 1B, Hoppers Lane, Werribee City Flinders Campus Location: Ground level, 300 Flinders Street, Melbourne

page 23 | survive uni 2020

Volunteering at VU There

are

many

fun

ways

you

can

get

involved with volunteering at VU amongst the different campuses. From the clubs and societies to the student union 'VUSUteers' and

Student

Life

'Vollies'.

Volunteering

allows you to meet new people, get involved in

events,

working

activities,

bees

university.

charity

inside

There

and

is

work

out

heaps

of

of

and the

events

including O’Fest, Be a Better Human, VUSU Hangs, V4U Day, Clubs and Society Events and many more.

Clubs and Societies There is a lot of different clubs and society’s that you

can

different

join

and

activity

volunteer clubs,

for

at

cultural,

VU.

political

From and

religious clubs to the different societies including College Societies.Clubs and Society’s allows you to get involved with volunteering in your specific interests and passions, and allows you to develop connections through hobby and career networks.

Volunteering for clubs and societies allows you to volunteer

during

different

social

nights

and

events, clubs’ festivals and allows you to express your

interests

and

knowledge

to

like

minded

people and to other students that are interested.

VUSUteers Another

way

you

can

get

involved

and

volunteer at VU is through the Student Unions 'VUSUteers'. VUSUteers are a great way to meet a diverse array of different students and allows you to get involved with the Student Union.

Becoming

a

VUSUteer

allows

the

opportunity for you to attend and volunteer at different forums, Student Union events which are held along with the different clubs and societies and also allows for a lot of different educational opportunities inside and out of the university along with many different educational experiences. Being a VUSUteer also allows you to connect with different people and allows you to network with people inside and out of the university. There are many different sectors in the Student Union you can volunteer for such as

Welfare,

Education,

Activities

and

more.

Some of the events that you can get involved in is Be a Better Human Festival, VUSU Hangs, Orientation events, Mid Semester Parties and lots of cultural festivals such as Holi and Diwali.

Vollies Student Life also offers volunteer opportunities and the chance for you to become a 'Vollie'.

Vollies help with running and setting up events around

the

university. learn

new

campuses

Becoming skills

and

a

and

outside

Vollie meet

allows

different

of you

the to

people

around the campuses, it allows you to get involved in events such as V4U Day.

page 25 | survive uni 2020

Secret study spaces The library is normally the place students go to study but when it's far to crowded, there is no where to sit or there are far too many group assignments going on around you, you need a place to go. So we thought let's go on an adventure and find all the secret study spaces and help you find a place, a hidey hole for instense, that would be the perfect place for study at Footscray Park.

Building C Level 2 This level has been freshly refurbished as of end of 2018 so it has a nice vibe about it. You can find booths, single tables but no computers. This is usually a very quiet study space so take you laptop and headphones down and smash out that study.

Building E level 3 I often walk past this study space and see no one. It's a smaller study space and it isn't furnished well but if you need absolute silence or have a group project and don't want to annoy anyone, seek out this study space.

Footscray park Now I know this isn't on the university but when it's a nice day and I want to get a little closer to nature I go over to the park. If you cross over to the park near building K you can find an area with benches. You can study whilst looking over the Maribyrnong River, usually it's quiet tranquil with very little people interrupting your thoughts.

Hiring of study spaces and computers Everyone has their spot right, and if someone was to sit in your spot your tend to not know what to do. Well the library gives you the ability to secure your spot. No longer will you have to silently seeth as someone sits in your chair.

Follow this link to book out computers and small study https://www.vu.edu.au/library/use-the-library/pc-room-booking

For the other campuses that are not included, go exploring and find yourself the perfect study space. You never know what you can find when you go looking; happy travels.

spaces:

page 35 | survive uni 2020

HOW TO REDUCE STRESS Get organised 'Create a space' 'Create a schedule'

Prioritise your schedule It might also help to make a list so you can see your tasks 'Break tasks down'

Find support 'Talk to family' 'Branch out at uni; meet new people or join a club'

Take care of your body 'Eat right' 'Get enough sleep'

Regular exercise 'Walk when you can' 'Take classes' 'Try yoga'

Clear your clutter The cleaner the space, the cleaner your mindset

Next time your feeling overwhelmed or anxious try calming yourself by naming...

5 things you can see

4 3 2 1 things things things things you you you you can can can can hear feel smell taste Do nothing. Take a breath. You're doing great.

STRESS RELIEVER TECHNIQUES Take a nap Go outside Breath

Listen to music

Eat something Call a friend Go shopping

Watch a movie

Have a nice hot drink Read a book

Go for a walk

Find a calming activity

Have a bath or a shower

page 29 | survive uni 2020

THE VU STUDENT UNION (VUSU)

WHAT IS THE UNION? VUSU is the PEAK REPRESENTATIVE STUDENT BODY at Victoria University, designed to provide and advocate for students at VU. The team at VUSU are diligent in students rights, safety and security, as well as providing the best student experiences throughout the university journey!

They are an independent entity which works collaboratively with VU departments and in partnership with Student Services to create positive change, provide advocacy for students, proves advocacy for students and to ensure the constant improvement of the student experience at VU. They have representation on many committees, including the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) consultative committee.

VUSU is funded by the Student Services & Amenities Fees.

VUSU VIP MEMBERSHIP Being a VUSU VIP means that you'll get access to perks and discounts at VUSU events throughout the year! Plus you also get free stuff.

Whats included:

For more details of how-to signup, event itinerary and keep track of activities around every campus, please log on to the VUSU website: https://vustudentunion.com/ or like our FB page with the same name.

vusu.queries@gmail.com facebook.com/VUstudentunion instagram.com/vusugram

vustudentunion.com

page 31 | survive uni 2020

What it's like to be an international student ***Disclaimer: Reading this article can make you extremely enthusiastic*** Moving to a new country can be extremely daunting especially during the first year. Finally having your parents relieved for ‘kicking’ you out and having to deal with being an adult is weird. The transition is a blessing in disguise. No matter how hard it is, it’s nice to ‘adult’ with some help. As International students too, we are experts in sadness. Joking! But guess what? We’ve got you covered!! Anyway, in this article, we’ve got some awesome tips to help you get through it while remaining sober. Or not!?

Number 1: Be involved.

Our University offers many amazing opportunities. Take advantage of it!! Sign up to be a VUSUteer & Vollie and take part in all the events that VUSU & Student Life organise for you. The best part? Free food and making tons of friends! And guess what? You get free gifts after every volunteering milestone to thank you. Check out the clubs and societies. They always like extra help. From cultural clubs to sports club, we’ve got the ‘kit’ to make you feel like home. The ‘International Students Association' (ISA) is also very committed to international students. Run by International students, for international students, we offer more information and events to help your transition. Find out more information on the VU and VUSU website. Make sure to stalk it well 'Joe Goldberg' style.

Number 2: Food We all love food. I mean, we need it to stay alive. Anyway, moving to a new country might mean that you haven’t experienced your hidden ‘chef’ talent so I’m sure you’ll resort to fast food. Once in awhile is okay but always is a no go! Fast food can be expensive and that’s when you understand why your mom tells you that there’s food at home. Stick to grocery shopping! My personal favourites? Aldi and fresh food markets!

Aldi is great for when you’ve got a sweet tooth and when you want cheap items and the markets are awesome for when you want to eat healthy and fresh. Abandon the cheap cup noodles!

Meal prep helps if you’ve got a busy week ahead! But trust me, fast food indulgences are not worth it! Healthy food is going to help your sound mind and body when you’re going to study.

You NEED the vitamins and minerals. It’s possible to eat fresh by not draining your wallets. You can also stock up in bulk on non-perishable items at Costco, especially if you live in a share house!

Number 3: Going out TGIF! We are all eager for the weekends because that’s when everything’s more lively! Want some tips? Get a drink during the happy hour. You can always find cheap and local beers for $5. With your student ID, you can get some good deals and even cheap or free entry from time to time at some clubs!

Weekends are also not the only time you can go out. Check out UniDays or the back of your student diary where you can get shopping or restaurant coupons and discounts. Now let’s be real, you should still focus on staying safe. Share your location with a friend or many whenever you’re going out at night.

YOUR safety should always be YOUR priority!

Number 4: Support systems It’s OKAY to miss your friends and family back home. Trust me, we all do. You can always talk to a friend about it. VU also has many support systems available such as free counselling sessions. You might be reluctant or hesitant to use the services available but it’s judgement-free and it’s confidential. No problem is too small to be tackled. You can also use the services of VUEmploy to check your resume or cover letter when you’re looking for a job. The transition from high school writing to University’s academic writing can be two worlds apart, especially when we’ve all had different education systems. You can always check out the workshops and student mentors in the Learning Hub who can help you with your academic writing. For more information, go to the VU website under support services and LearningHub.

Number 5: Basic items You might think that good clothes are always expensive. But, my answer for you is “No, my friend!” Try thrift shops! You might be new to this but thrifting is awesome! The clothes are as good as new! What about books? There’s also a cheaper alternative to that one expensive book that you’re going to use only for one semester! Try ‘Student VIP’ where you can buy the used books from someone else. If you’re into novels, try the little free libraries where you can borrow a book for free as long as you either return it or replace it!

Number 6: Language Last but not least, the OZ slangs!! In case you didn’t catch that, OZ or Aussie means Australian. We’ve included a table to help you with the common ones.

Aussie English

Normal English

Barbie Arvo Avo Maccas Brekky Defo Straya Thongs

Barbecue Afternoon Avocado McDonald's Breakfast Definitely Australia Flip Flops

For more information on the International Students Association go to our website: vustudentunion.com/isa or email us at isa@vustudentunion.com and follow us on facebook facebook.com/vicuniisa

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going out manual

UNIVERSITY IS NOT ONLY ABOUT STUDYING AND GETTING GOOD GRADES, IT'S ALSO ABOUT MEETING NEW PEOPLE AND HAVING FUN WHILST YOU COMPLETE YOUR DEGREE. HERE'S A LITTLE MANUAL TO HELP YOU HAVE A SUCCESSFUL NIGHT OUT!

HOW TO STAY IN THE LOOP

HOW TO MAKE FRIENDS

The best way to stay in the loop at VU is by social media. VUSU, clubs & societies, college societies and other VU departments have Facebook pages. Follow as many as possible to always know whats going on. Always check out the bulletin boards around campuses; everyone puts posters on them as well as the VUSU DIGI screens located new the VUHQ.

If you are a first year, the VUSU hosts a few different O' Fest events that you should check out. There are also a large number of clubs & societies you should join, Another great way to get involved is by volunteering; there are many volunteering opportunities available at VU - check out VUSU's website to find out more.

GOING OUT There are plenty of opportunities to go out during your time at VU. FYI Thursday nights are known as 'Uni Night"; take advantage of this, as it means cheap drinks.

DRINK SMART Don't drink on an empty stomach and drink water inbetween drinks (can save you the hangover).

PLAN YOUR WAY HOME If you are catching public transport, check the last train home. There is also always UBER as a safe way directly to your house.

KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR FRIENDS AND LOOK OUT FOR OTHER PEOPLE Whilst having a good time yourself, make sure your friends are too. Make sure to keep an eye on them and that they are safe, also keep an eye out for the people around you. If you see something that doesn't look right, help if it is safe to do so.

MAKE SURE YOUR PHONE IS CHARGED Charge your phone before you leave on your night out, it will be easier in order to get home with charge on your phone.

IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 101

If you need it or a friend and it's an emergency, always call 000 if this is the case.

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ways

the

to

be

+

LGBTQIA

an

ally

to

community

While you probably believe that all people, regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation, should be treated with dignity and respect, you may not be aware of the most practical ways you can defend your LGBTQIA+ friends against discrimination.

The best approaches to becoming an ally to the queer community:

1. Inform yourself about diversity

Understand the diversity of pronouns and sexual orientations, and the importance of these preferences for each individual.

Think about what it means to be ‘he’, ‘she’ or ‘they’. Do some research and learn what a CIS male and female is, as well as the meaning of nonbinary, asexual, pansexual, polyamorous, bisexual and so on.

If you’re a VU student, the Queer Collective is always available to offer insight into the full spectrum of queer identities.

2. Listen with empathy Keep your heart, ears and eyes open to the experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community – those in your life as well as those working to create awareness through media, the arts, research and activism.

Queer youth often struggle to find someone to just listen to them, and making them feel heard could save their life. You don't need to be trained or specialise in psychology or youth work – listening with a compassionate, open and supportive attitude is often all that’s required.

3. Stand up for whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right The risk of being a victim of violence is three times higher for queer youth.

Physical attacks, verbal abuse, e-bullying, and even anti-LGBTQIA+ jokes and jests can all have a negative effect.

As an ally, you can focus on making spaces as physically and psychologically safe as possible for the queer community by speaking out to those using offensive slurs, or exhibiting bullying and other antisocial behaviours.

4. Know what support is available Familiarise yourself with what resources are out there for the LGBTQIA+ community. For example, Victoria police have a queer collective within their ranks who are trained specifically to help those suffering discrimination and there are officers at most police stations who deal solely with this. And at each VU campus, there is a Pride Room where members of the queer community can relax and feel safe.

5. Wear it Purple and attend VU Queernival Show your support by wearing purple on Wear it Purple Day, Friday 30 August 2019. Wear it Purple Day was founded in response to the number of young people who take their own lives following bullying and harassment due to their sexuality or gender identity. By wearing purple, you can show you are an ally and join a movement that has the potential to save thousands of lives.

To coincide with Wear it Purple Day, VU Queer Collective is welcoming all to the first Victorian Queernival on Thursday 29 August 2019. This is a day of celebrating what makes the queer community special and educating LGBTQIA+ youth and allies about the full range of support available.

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EASY RECIPES

FOR STUDENTS

Gluten Free Muffins Ingredients 300g gluten free self rasing flour 150g sugar 1 medium egg 175 mls milk 125 mls veg oil (if adding fruit) about 150g-200g of whatever you fancy You can always feel free to experemnt with things such as cinnamon etc.

Method Preheat the oven to 190° C Sieve the flour and add the sugar Mix the egg, milk and oil together Add the all ingredients and mix it together Get rid of most of the lumps but don t worry if its got a few left Add in whatever it is you are using to flavour the muffins Bake for about 20 minutes and when you get them out of the oven its nice to sprinkle some brown sugar on the top of the warm muffins

Pizza Fries Ingredients Fries/chips/wedges Mushrooms Ham Bacon Mozzarella Grated cheese Tinned chopped tomatoes or tomato paste Any other toppings you would put on your pizza......

Method Cook your chips/fries/wedge Put chips in to a baking dish and pour over the chopped tomatoes or splatter the tomato paste Add your mozzarella Add whatever toppings you want to put onto your 'pizza' Then sprinkle grated cheese on top and return to the oven till cheese is melted.

Stuffed Peppers & Roast Potato * Vegetarian recipe but can add meat Ingredients 1 large red pepper (cut the top off and hollow out) 1 clove garlic chopped finely 1/2 a leek chopped finely 4-5 mushrooms 1/2 courgette cubed Grated cheese Handful of broccoli cut into small trees New potatoes cut into chunks Method Preheat oven to 200° C Wrap pepper in foil with a little oil in it Par boil the cubed potatoes for 5-8 mins Drain and season with salt and pepper and mixed herbs Add to a small roasting tray with the potatoes and a tsp of oil Fry leeks and garlic gentle for 5 mins in oil Add courgette cubes and broccoli Stir fry gently then add mushrooms Check on the roasting pepper When sides are browning fill with fried vegetables; mix with grated cheese and recover with foil, replace in oven.

When potatoes start browning, cook for 5 further minutes Serve immediately and enjoy immensely :)

For more awesome and easy recipes go to https://studentrecipes.com

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Assessments; what you need to know Diamonds are made under pressure.... right? Well yes, however we are trying to do an assessment not make a diamond (mind you if you handed in a diamond for your assessment i feel like you could possibly bribe yourself into a solid HD). So before you leave it to the last minute to guzzle down 3 cans of red bulls and blast that music loud here are some things you should know about the university assessment policy.

Submitting your assessment Almost all assessments are now handed in online these days, ( thank you 21st century). You will be able to submit most of your assessments on VU collaborate. You will have to navigate to your unit and find the Dropbox with in the unit’s page. There will be some rare assessments where you will have to hand in something but the teachers will specify how they will want you to do that.Now you may have heard about Turnitin, its the text matching software that the university utilises and the plagiarism detective. It matches your assessment to online material and produces a percentage of similarity. It is then up to the lecturers to make the final call on whether your assessment is plagiarised.

Hurdles To pass a unit you need a 50% mark for the unit in most cases. Some units have hurdles. Hurdles are when a specific assessment requires 50% or higher for a pass to be given. This is usually put in place due to the regulating body for the specific course not the university. All hurdle assessment will be outlined in the unit guide. So make sure you read that before going into class.

Special consideration Life happens, things get in the way of you and that assessment which are un avoidable and the university understands that. That is why you are able to get extensions or another assessment based on the lectures discussion. You must apply for the special consideration no longer than 3 working days after the affected assessment.

Access plan If you have ongoing complications that affects your study you are able to get an access plan. This plan will outline to lectures the steps and procedures that they have to go through to ensure you are given equal ground to study. Once you get this document you will be able to present this to each teacher so they are able to accommodate to your needs.

Review of results You do have the right to get your results reviewed if you do not believe that your assessment was accurately assessed. This need to be submitted 5 working days after the assessment results have been released.

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Money saving tips University can be a stressful time, and money can be one of the biggest contributors to this stress, but there are many ways to reduce the stress of money, and here are 10 tips to help save money during your studies.

Budget - it sounds cliché, but it really does work!

Bring your lunch to uni & meal prep - money adds up if you're buying your lunch every day & you can’t live off noodles Create a shopping list - it reduces buying unnecessary & unneeded things Buy used textbooks & sell your old ones! - everybody loves a bargain!

Bargain shop - if you love treating yourself, use student discounts!

Unidays will be your best friend Public transport is there for a reason - if it’s accessible take public transport to uni, there’s bus stops at every campus!

Free goods - take advantage of the freebies on campus! VUSU offers great membership discounts on campus (& off) EDUROAM - take advantage of the WIFI services to save on phone bills Don’t buy unnecessary uni supplies - we all fall for buying new books and pens every year and never using them; REUSE! Lastly, save any money you have left over even if it’s just a few dollars, it will all add up in the end

Let's talk safe sex Safe sex means protecting the health of both you and of your sexual partner. This means preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancy.

It’s a good idea to talk about using condoms, water-based lubricant and dams BEFORE you have sex, rather than waiting until you are caught up in the moment.

Remember, safer sex really starts right at the beginning – talking to your partner and being sure that you both want to have sex and are ready.

You don’t have to have sex if you don’t want to – you always have the right to say NO, at any time. for more information go to: https://www.getthefacts.health.wa.gov.au/sex/safer-sex A pap smear test has now changed to the cervial screening test.

The new Cervical Screening Test procedure is similar to a Pap smear test. For both tests a doctor or nurse takes a sample of cells from the cervix. However, the Pap smear test used to look for abnormal cells in the cervix, while the Cervical Screening Test looks for HPV infection. The new test for HPV can identify women who could be at risk of cervical cancer earlier than the Pap test could.

Women aged 25 to 74 years of age should have a Cervical Screening Test two years after their last Pap test. Subsequently, you will only need to have the test every five years if your results are normal. more information go to: https://www.cancer.org.au/about-cancer/early-detection/early-detectionfactsheets/understanding-your-pap-smear-results.html If you would like further information and the internet is to confusing with too much information go to a GP as they are happy to answer all questions you have

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Victoria University

STUDENT UNION 2020 events

We have planned a range of fun activities for you this year and we’re super excited to have you join us at these events so here’s a couple to look out for; VUSU Welcome party Come along for a great time to socialise with VUSU. There’ll be free drinks and this is a great way to meet new people at uni, especially if you’re a new student. More details will be available on our Facebook page.

VUSU Hangs As one of our most popular events, we promise it will be bigger and better this year. Come along for a free sausage and hang out with the VUSU crew to take a break from studying. VUSU Hangs is on every Wednesday throughout the year at various campus so follow us on Facebook to see one near you!

Mid semester Party Celebrate the end of a semester (4 blocks) with the VUSU crew. This themed party is a great way to destress after an intense semester of studying. With free drinks and great beats that’ll keep you dancing well info the night, you don’t want to miss out! Keep an eye out on our socials for more details VUSU.

Cirque du Mystique Ball Our most popular event promises to be bigger and better this year. The VUSU Annual ball theme this year is Cirque du Mystique- a circus theme with a hint of mystery. With a 3 course meal and unlimited drinks throughout the night, you don’t want to miss out. Make sure to stay up to date with our socials for the early bird ticket release! We will be having more events throughout the year.

For more information, please feel free to message us via our Facebook page or come and see us in person at the VUSU office at Footscray Park in M129.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Temiloluwa (Temi) Oladiji, VUSU VP Activities Officer

UNIVERSITY BUCKET LIST

There are so many different things to do at VU, so the Hyde team has put together a university bucket list to help you get started on your journey here at VU. Like & follow Hyde on Facebook & Instagram Get a VUSU VIP membership and grab your golden ticket Go to Orientation Festival on your campus Join a club Go to the VUSU Orientation Party Have a drink at the VU Bar Go support the VU Vultures team Check out and join in at VUSU Hangs Volunteer with the VUSU Go on a pub crawl Get your assignments in on time Form a study group Learn to cook Take a selfie with the VUSU President

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In 2017, The Australian Human Rights Commission conducted a randomised survey of university students, including students here at Victoria University, and released the National Report on Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment at Australian Universities. The report offered many suggestions for Universities to adopt and while we think those recommendations are fantastic, here at VU we want to do even better!

This initiative was created with a group of Flinders students from the ground up, to reflect campus culture and what we think everyone needs to appreciate – consent, respect and empathy. The campaign is called Be a Better Human (BaBH), because we don’t just want it to be about what we shouldn’t do; we want it to be about selfimprovement for everyone. And when we say ‘everyone’, we really do mean everyone.

We’re encouraging everyone who is part of our campus community to take a moment and consider how we can ‘better’ our behaviour.

The general outline of this project is to bring in materials on education, including booklets, merchandise (tshirts, pens, etc) as well as to hold a clubs festival space where the information can be passed along to students in a personalised manner. This would include Be a Better Human campaign info, student club stalls, performances and special guest speakers, free food and giveaways including awesome BaBH shirts, pens and more!

Events like the BaBH festival help build a culture of respect, empathy and consent for all students and staff.

“Victoria University has a zero tolerance approach to violence in any form, including sexual and gender-based violence. Genderbased violence is a serious social issue driven by gender inequality and enabled by sexist attitudes and behaviours. We work to build a culture of safety and respect, where students and staff are empowered to become change agents to help stop gender-based violence at the University and in the wider community.” (VU Respect & Responsibility).

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CONTRIBUTORS a big thanks to those that contributed and made the guide possible

Will Penrose, VU Student Union President Alexander Haw, VU Student Union General Secretary Ronish Chattaraj, VU Student Union VP Welfare Officer Temi Oladiji, VU Student Union VP Activities Officer Emma Whitbread, VU Student Union VUSUteer Officer Michael Deppeler, VU Student Union Queer Officer and VU Queer Collective President Mughees Raza, VU Student Union Digital Media Officer Dylan Nilmadhub, VU Student Union VUSUteer Mohammad Parvees, VU ISA Vice President Toolsika Rawoah, VU Student Union Womens Officer and VU ISA Marketing & Multimedia Coodinator

a message from hyde This year Hyde Student Magazine has a big year ahead! The Hyde team is looking at bringing six editions out, launch events for each edition and much more!

The Hyde Student Magazine is about bringing student voice to life and educating students with strategies from VU and keeping you connected with the VU Community life.

If you are wanting to submit anything to the magazine, the Hyde team wants it all! We look for photography, opinion pieces, helpful tips, artwork, personal pieces and more.

Anything you have, we want!

Please submit all you have to: hyde@vustudentunion.com

We are looking forwarf to the big year ahead! keep your eyes peeled and up-to-date with the socials to see it all.

Facebook: facebook.com/hydemagazine Instagram: instagram.com/hyde_magazine