Navigating Monash: Essential Tips from a Graduating Student
Just arrived at Monash and feeling a bit overwhelmed by the maze of buildings, classrooms, buses, and libraries? Don't sweat it! As a soon-to-be Monash graduate, I've navigated my fair share of hilarious and sometimes stressful situations. Here are some survival tips to help you not only get by but truly thrive during your university years. Let's dive in!
1. Not an Early Bird? Ditch Those 8 AM Classes
This might sound simple, but showing up for an 8 AM class at the Clayton campus is a serious challenge for many. Especially if your commute is an hour, or if it's still dark outside during winter when you have to drag yourself to the bus stop. If you're not naturally a morning person, do yourself a favor and book classes starting around 10 AM. You'll be more alert and learn so much better. Trust me, my first year was a learning curve, and by the second semester, I was strictly enrolling in classes from 10 AM onwards.
2. S1 and South1 Are NOT the Same
This is a classic trap for first-year students – I was definitely a victim! Many confuse S1 with an abbreviation for South1. But here's the crucial difference: S1 is actually a specific lecture theatre, while South1 (South One) is an entire building within the Medicine precinct. These locations are quite far apart. South One typically houses lecture theatres for medicine students, and as a stats student in my first year, I also had classes there. So, take note!
Before you rush off to class, always double-check Google Maps and the Monash Map to avoid frantic dashes across the Clayton campus like I used to do.
3. Volunteer with MSA – You Won't Regret It!
The Monash Student Association (MSA) offers a plethora of volunteer opportunities each semester. These range from assisting at events, working at food trucks, helping new international students, to organizing cultural celebrations. It's an excellent way to get acquainted with the Australian volunteering scene, score free food and gifts, connect with international peers, and boost your resume. I wholeheartedly recommend it! I gained so many valuable skills from these experiences, including building relationships that later helped me secure referee letters.
4. Finding Your Library Vibe
Monash boasts several libraries, each with its own distinct atmosphere. The Law Library is incredibly quiet, perfect for those intense study sessions when you need to focus. I found it a bit too isolating for my taste and didn't frequent it often. The Matheson Library is spacious, bright, and features plenty of open-plan areas, making it ideal for group study or casual learning. It truly felt like a second home to me; during my second year, I spent from 8 AM to 2 AM there one day! It's also very comfortable and expansive. The Hargrave-Andrew Library has a more formal, tidy, and academic feel. It suits those who prefer a classic, studious environment. It also closes earlier than Matheson, which is why I usually opted for Matheson. However, if you're studying in the Science buildings, Hargrave is conveniently located. The food options on the ground floor are also quite decent.
5. Matheson Library Offers 24/7 Study on the Lower Ground Floor
Facing all-night study sessions before exams? The Matheson Library's Lower Ground floor is your sanctuary! As a Monash student, you can access it by scanning your student ID. You'll find power outlets, desks, and reliable Wi-Fi. Just bring some snacks and a warm layer, and you're all set. I've pulled all-nighters there myself before assignment deadlines.
6. Bus 601 Isn't Free – Remember to Tap Your Myki
A common misconception is that the 601 bus from Clayton to Huntingdale is free. It's not! This is a public bus, so you must tap on with your Myki card. Failure to do so can result in a hefty fine. I remember an inspector catching people out, it was quite a shock.
Here's a money-saving tip if you plan to visit the city: you can take the free Monash shuttle bus from Clayton to Caulfield, and then catch a train from Caulfield to the city. It's free and a relaxed way to travel. Just note that the shuttle bus operates only on weekdays for Monash students and runs until around 10 PM.
7. LTB and BLTB Are Distinctly Different
Although their names sound similar, they are not the same:
LTB stands for the Learning and Teaching Building. It's a massive, impressive building, often the busiest on campus, located right by the bus loop.
BLTB is the Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building. This one is situated closer to the Science and Biomed precinct and is primarily used for lab sessions and practical classes. You can spot this building by its green exterior and numerous glass panels.
Don't get these confused, or you might be late for class! Especially if your timetable simply says "LTB," it's wise to confirm its exact location on Google Maps.
If you found these tips helpful, please leave a comment! I have plenty more amusing Monash stories to share. Wishing all new students a joyful and successful academic journey, and a smooth transition through those initial weeks. And to all current Monash students, share your own tips below so others can learn from your experiences and avoid any stumbles!
