Using university support services is one of those topics that many students don’t think about until they need help. Universities offer many support services, but students don’t always know about them or how to use them. I’ve used support services, and I’ve watched friends use them. Some found them helpful and got the support they needed. Others didn’t know they existed or were too shy to use them. The difference was knowing what exists and being willing to ask for help.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve used various support services, and I’ve learned what’s available and how to use them. Some services were helpful. Others weren’t what I needed. The difference was understanding what’s available and using the right services.
So here’s everything I know about using university support services in Australia, based on what actually exists and how to use them.
What Support Services Actually Exist
Let me start with this, because many students don’t know what’s available.
Academic skills services help with study skills, academic writing, and other academic support. They usually offer workshops and one on one help.
Counselling services help with mental health, stress, and personal issues. They’re usually free and confidential.
Career services help with career planning, job searching, and resume writing. They’re useful for finding jobs and planning your career.
Health services provide medical care. They’re usually cheaper than private doctors and convenient for students.
But here’s what nobody tells you: support services are there to help, but you need to use them. Don’t be too proud or too shy to ask for help. Everyone needs help sometimes.
Academic Skills Services: Study Support
This is probably the most useful service for most students, and here’s what it offers.
Academic writing help. They can help with essay structure, referencing, and other writing skills. This is especially useful if you’re not used to Australian academic writing.
Study skills workshops. They offer workshops on note taking, exam preparation, time management, and other study skills.
One on one help. You can book appointments for individual help with specific issues.
But here’s what I’ve learned: academic skills services are valuable, but you need to use them early. Don’t wait until you’re failing. Use them when you need help, not when it’s too late.
Counselling Services: Mental Health Support
This is important, because many students struggle with stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues.
Counselling services are usually free and confidential. You can talk to counsellors about stress, anxiety, depression, or other issues.
They’re usually available for a limited number of sessions. Check how many sessions you’re entitled to.
They can refer you to other services if needed. If you need more help, they can refer you to external services.
But here’s what I’ve learned: counselling services are valuable, but they’re not always easy to access. There might be waiting lists, especially during busy periods. Don’t wait until you’re desperate. Book early if you need help.
I’ve written about how to deal with exam stress and anxiety if you want more detail.
Career Services: Job and Career Support
This is useful for finding jobs and planning your career.
Career services help with: resume writing, job searching, interview preparation, and career planning.
They usually offer workshops and one on one appointments. Use them to improve your job prospects.
But here’s what I’ve learned: career services are useful, but they’re not magic. They can help you improve your resume and interview skills, but you still need to apply for jobs and perform well. Use them as a tool, not a solution.
Health Services: Medical Care
This is important, because you need medical care sometimes.
Health services provide medical care for students. They’re usually cheaper than private doctors and convenient.
They can help with: general health issues, mental health referrals, and other medical needs.
But here’s what I’ve learned: health services are useful, but they might have waiting lists. For urgent issues, you might need to go to a hospital or private doctor. For non urgent issues, health services are convenient and affordable.
How to Access Support Services
This is the practical part, and here’s how to do it.
Check your university’s website. Most universities list support services on their websites. Look for “Student Services” or “Support” sections.
Contact student services directly. You can usually call, email, or visit in person. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Book appointments early. Many services have waiting lists, especially during busy periods. Book early if you need help.
But here’s what to watch for: support services aren’t always well publicised. You might need to actively search for them. Don’t assume they don’t exist just because you can’t find them easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are support services free?
Most are free or low cost for students. Check with your university about specific costs. Counselling and academic skills services are usually free. Health services might have small fees.
Do I need to book appointments?
Usually yes. Most services require appointments, though some offer drop in sessions. Check what’s available and book if needed.
How many times can I use support services?
It depends on the service. Some services have limits on how many times you can use them. Others don’t. Check with your university about specific limits.
Will using support services affect my grades or visa?
No, usually not. Support services are confidential and don’t affect your grades or visa. Don’t be afraid to use them.
What if I’m too shy to use support services?
That’s understandable, but try to overcome it. Support services are there to help, and they’re used to helping students. You’re not the only one who needs help. Everyone needs help sometimes.
Can I use support services if I’m not struggling?
Yes, definitely. You don’t need to be struggling to use support services. They can help you improve even if you’re doing well. Use them proactively, not just when you’re desperate.
Final Thoughts
Using university support services can make a big difference to your university experience. Academic skills services, counselling services, career services, and health services are all valuable. Don’t be too proud or too shy to use them.
Don’t wait until you’re struggling. Use support services proactively. They can help you improve even if you’re doing well. Everyone needs help sometimes.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Ask for help. Don’t try to do everything alone. Support services are there to help, and they’re valuable. Use them.
If you’re still planning your study journey, check out my guides on how to study effectively in Australian universities and how to manage assignments exams and group work. And if you need help, don’t be afraid to use support services. They’re there to help, and they’re valuable. Everyone needs help sometimes.