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Helping students make a smooth transition

19 November 2008

Professor Rob Willis

Monash is holding a conference on Tuesday 25 November to discuss initiatives and programs to support Monash students as they adjust to life and learning at university.

The ‘Monash Transition Roundtable 2008' will include a range of events and lectures held simultaneously across four venues at the Clayton campus.

Law Professor Sally Kift from the Queensland University of Technology will provide the day's opening keynote address, discussing the role of first year curriculum design in student engagement, success and retention.

Some of the other topics covered in the program include peer mentoring, leadership and ambassador programs, international student support, academic and generic skills development and orientation programs.

Campus director of Caulfield and Clayton campuses Professor Rob Willis said the day offered the opportunity for University staff and students, secondary school teachers and other interested parties to discuss the issues and emotions students face during the transition from secondary to university study.

"All students, regardless of age, educational and cultural background and personality will be affected by issues of transition," Professor Willis said.

"It is important that the University is able to understand the transition process, anticipate the range of problems that students encounter so that we can provide support and guidance to those students who need it.

"We are looking forward to hearing from staff about their vast and varied experiences of delivering transition-related initiatives and programs at Monash.

"Points of view from the student perspective are also welcomed and encouraged."

The Monash Transition Roundtable is sponsored by the Office of the Campus Director (Caulfield and Clayton), the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education), the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International), the Marketing and Student Recruitment Division and the Student and Community Services Division.

For further information including session times, venue and registration information visit the Monash Transition Roundtable 2008 website.