Knowing your lecturers and other staff at University is as important as knowing your fellow students. People working at University are referred to as 'academic' or 'general' staff. You'll come into contact with academic staff through your lectures, tutorials and labs, and during activities in your School. You'll meet general staff when you seek help in the library, or with computing, administrative or personal services offered at University.
Your First Year Advisor is from your program, and is an invaluable liaison point. They can help you to plan and succeed in your program of study and can assist with academic policies and procedures. They'll also point you in the right direction if you need help.
Academic staff welcome your questions, because that shows you are interested and willing to learn. You'll probably be in a smaller group during a tutorial than when you're in a lecture, so it might feel more comfortable to start off asking questions there. Lecturers and tutors will let you know when they are available for consultations outside of class time, and others will encourage you to email them if you have concerns.
You might feel intimidated about approaching academic or general staff with questions or concerns. Lecturers and tutors work at University because they are interested in teaching and in supporting students to learn. Many general staff members are in roles designed specifically to help you gain the information, skills and support you need to get through University.
How can I connect with staff?
- Find out your program's First Year Advisor and get to know them
- Get to know the administrative and academic staff in your School
- Ask staff questions. You can find out how to contact a staff member by looking them up in the Griffith phonebook. You can also visit your School's website
- Attend activities offered by your School and during orientation
What's expected of me?
- Approach staff and ask for help
- Get to know your First Year Advisor
- Attend Orientation and School activities to get to know staff
- Ask questions
Information for WIL (Work Integrated Learning)
Student orientation event finder