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What is the first week of semester actually like?

I arrive two days before classes start and I have no idea what to expect. Is there anything I should sort out before day one?

Asked by Minh · 2 Sept 2026

1 answer from students in Australia

  • Busier than you expect, but mostly not academic yet. At UNSW we have three terms a year, so each term is shorter and moves fast - week 1 matters more than you would think.

    Week 1 is mostly introductory lectures, finding your rooms and getting your timetable and Moodle sorted. Go to O-Week events before term starts: clubs, campus tours and free food are the easiest way to meet people. Check each course page to see whether tutorials start in week 1 or 2.

    Set up your student card, Wi-Fi and student email early. And don't worry if you feel lost - everyone does in week 1.

    Tan
    Tan

    15 Oct 2026

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