social – GapMash

3 Tips to Surviving Uni (and Thriving, Maybe)

Between lectures, endless deadlines, and the daily debate over whether to cook or just survive on instant noodles, uni life can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—navigating this chaos is totally possible (and maybe even enjoyable).

1. Keep Your Brain Happy

Your mind is your greatest asset at uni—treat it well. Stay curious, ask questions, and don’t just memorise; actually understand what you’re learning. And yes, that means sleeping enough so your brain can function beyond caffeine-fueled autopilot.

2. Adapt & Innovate

The academic world is always evolving, and so should you. Use AI-powered tools for note-taking, explore new study techniques, and stay ahead of the game. The smartest students aren’t just working harder—they’re working smarter.

3. Work Smarter, Not Harder

Solo studying is great, but have you tried joining a study group? Swapping notes, tackling assignments together, and keeping each other accountable makes a huge difference. Take advantage of GapMash to organise your group study sesh at a time that works for everyone.

You Got This!

Here’s the secret: no one has uni completely figured out. Everyone is winging it to some degree. But with the right people, tools, and mindset, you’ll not just survive—you’ll thrive.

So, take a breath, organise your game plan, and make this uni experience work for you. And when you need a break? Jump on GapMash to have some fun and make the most of uni life.

Why Uni is a Buffet of Opportunities You Don’t Want to miss

University isn’t just about lectures and last-minute assignment panic—it’s a full-on buffet of experiences waiting for you to dig in. And no, we’re not just talking about the free BBQs on campus (though, let’s be honest, those are a solid perk).

Try Something Unexpected

Uni’s offer way more than just your standard degrees. Ever thought about enrolling in a class on the Science of Taylor Swift? Or trying out an elective in coding, philosophy, or even wine studies? Uni is the one time in life where you can test-drive different interests without long-term commitment.

Join a Club (Or Five)

From Quidditch teams to K-Pop dance crews, there’s a society for everything. Whether you’re into debating, gaming, theatre, or just looking for an excuse to hang out with people who love free food as much as you do, there’s a club with your name on it. The trick? Actually joining—don’t just sign up at O-Week and ghost them.

Expand Your Social Circle

Still rolling with your high school crew? That’s cool, but uni is your chance to meet people from all over Sydney (and beyond). Chat to that person next to you in a lecture, say yes to random coffee invites, and get out of your comfort zone.

Make It Happen with GapMash

Sydney’s unis are packed with events, meetups, and opportunities—if you know where to find them. That’s where GapMash comes in. Whether you’re looking for a society event, a study group, or just a fun night out, GapMash connects you to what’s happening so you never miss out.

This is your buffet—time to load up your plate!

Making Friends at Uni: A Survival Guide

You’ve officially stepped onto campus—congratulations! Now, you’re probably wondering, how on earth do I make friends here? Don’t stress, we’ve got your back with this survival guide to navigating the social jungle that is university life.

Step 1: Be Open to Awkward Hellos

Let’s face it: everyone’s new at some point. Those awkward “hi’s” and nervous smiles? Totally normal. Lean into the discomfort—it’s a rite of passage. Before you know it, those “hellos” will turn into actual conversations.

Step 2: Say Yes to Things

When your friend invites you to trivia night, or someone asks to study together—say yes! These low-pressure activities are goldmines for meeting new people. Trivia night could lead to your new best mate, and study groups might just become your go-to squad.

Step 3: Actually Talk to People

Sounds simple, right? But liking someone’s Insta post doesn’t count as real interaction. Start conversations, ask questions, and take the time to genuinely get to know people. You’ll be surprised at how far just chatting can go.

Step 4: Network (Without It Feeling Cringe)

Networking doesn’t just have to be about your future job prospects—it can be about making future friends too! Whether it’s a classmate or a club member, you never know when someone might become your go-to person or even your future boss.

Pro Move: Use GapMash

GapMash takes the guesswork out of meeting new people. No more awkward “Where do I start?” moments—just find events, connect with others, and take it from there. It’s like socialising with a cheat code.

Ready to make the most of your uni experience? Get out there and start meeting people with GapMash.