Positives: There is a large variety of classes you can take to meet the requirements of the course which is great for someone looking for breadth in their education. The course offers 8 electives where you can take classes from any colleges in ANU which allowed me to pursue a language minor. For me personally, I liked that the exams usually make up for less than or around 50% of my final grade (which is really great when you're studying maths and science) so I can use assignments and other coursework to boost my marks. Besides that, I enjoyed classes under my major, Earth Science, as we handled real data which gives us a better idea of the applications of our education.
Negatives: I wish there were more opportunities for activities beyond lecture halls and tutorials such as field trips and exchange programs for my major and specialisation. Other than that, you have to be careful in selecting classes especially in your first year because occasionally the class assumes you have a certain level of prior knowledge in the subject which makes it difficult to catch up to.
My advice to future students is: Check the information the university provides on the programs and courses website as it really helped me decide on ANU because it offered the best program for my area of interest. If the information on the site isn't too helpful, do contact the course convenors or appropriate college offering the course as they were helpful in helping me plan my degree. I emailed them for help and they promptly set up an appointment for me within the week.
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It's difficult but it's quite an interesting course. The lecturers are all researches in the fields they teach which makes lesson crazy interesting. Practical super hands on and very helpful in understanding course material.
My advice to future students is: Pace your learning and make sure to utilise the resources given to you
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Workload was doable, staff were helpful, structure was disorganised because staff were changing so I had to overload during my third year, etc. but it was overall doable.
My advice to future students is: Make sure you have good time management skills
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Positives: Interesting topics covered during the course. Lecturers and tutors are helpful in learning process.
Negatives: Involves a lot of alone study hours. Lecture slides are not enough must buy and read textbook for exams.
My advice to future students is: Be prepared for a whole life change and do not rely on anyone but yourself. Great passion is needed to focus and complete your degree.
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I'm majoring environmental science.
Positives: Most ENVS courses at ANU offer a positive, inclusive and integrative learning space. Most students are very friendly and come from a wide range of diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the lecturers and tutors often have high levels of academic achievement.
Negatives: On the occasion, some courses may be somewhat disorganised, as well as sometimes lack a sense of direction. However, this cannot be considered a total negative as many courses approach learning from a more holistic perspective.
My advice to future students is: If you are thinking of studying environmental science, I would advise entering coursework with an open mind and willingness to challenge and be challenged in your views and perspectives. The key to understanding and succeeding in such work ultimately boils down to a fundamental employment of critical thought.
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Positives: Its diverse with lecturers that are experienced
Negatives: Amount of coursework
My advice to future students is: Be on track with your studies and never neglect them to the last minute
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