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– By Rachael Lee
Commencing a year or two of preparatory studies in a completely new environment may seem daunting for some international students. However, foundation courses actually provide many benefits to students looking to pursue a university degree.
Offered at a variety of colleges and universities, foundation studies are designed to prepare you for further studies in a particular degree at the university of your choice.
So what are the benefits? Here are 3 reasons why you should consider doing a foundation year.
Transitioning into Tertiary Education
One of the main benefits of doing a year of foundation studies is that it allows you to get an early feel of what tertiary education is like. With the university lifestyle being heavily reliant on independent learning, studying at the tertiary level may present a number of challenges, especially for students who are just about to come out of school.
As I was about to start my first year studying abroad, I felt very anxious about how I was going to survive university, but through foundation studies I was able to get an early grasp of what tertiary level environment was like. The teachers were very supportive and I received plenty of support. Because of that I was able to adapt much more easily in my second year!In foundation studies, students will be able to familiarise yourself with independent study techniques through university-style lectures and tutorials, all while still receiving the individual guidance needed to ease into the tertiary education environment.
Improve academic and professional skills
Through foundation studies, students will be able to acquire new learning skills and develop an aptitude to work at a professional level. These could range from standard study skills such as independent research and academic writing to gaining knowledge in a specific field of your choice.
Generally introverted and shy, I always felt nervous whenever we had to make presentations. Undergoing Trinity Foundation studies really helped me improve my communication skills as it was where I learned how to interact with other students from different backgrounds and now I feel much more comfortable speaking up!
Feeling under prepared for university assessments and work life is a worry that plagues several students but in my personal experience, foundation studies is where you can develop time management skills and the capacity to work professionally required for your future university degree.
Settling into a new environment
The idea of moving to a new country on your own is never easy task, and for some, just the idea of it is frightening. However, undertaking foundation studies is a great opportunity to meet and bond with other international students who are in a similar situation (there’s a high chance you’d meet people from the same country as well!)
During my year in foundation, I was able to take my time in adjusting to the new environment and familiarise myself with the culture differences between my home country and Australia. Foundation studies were a great platform not only for a tertiary approach to education but also for the irreplaceable friends and memories I have made.
