Getting the first year of university off to the right start is something former beer sales executive Ryan McMahon and recent school leaver Bronson Aukaha know all about.

The first-year Commerce students at USC’s Fraser Coast campus are supporting an Open Day initiative by USC to help Fraser Coast students make the best start to university.

Open Day on Saturday 8 July from 10am to 1pm at USC’s campus in Hervey Bay will have the theme ‘First year starts here’, and is aimed at giving prospective students and their families the information and tools needed to plan and begin their higher education journey.

A special feature of Open Day will be panel sessions with graduates, staff and USC students, including Mr McMahon, sharing their stories and advice on university and careers.

“I see gaining a Commerce degree as an investment in my future, with the qualifications giving me an advantage in the fast-changing Australian job market,” said Ryan, 33, who worked for several years as a sales executive with two national beverage companies.

“You really need to commit if you are going to make it work, so after being out of education circles for so long, I took advantage of the support and tertiary preparation program offered by USC,” he said.

“This really prepares you for what uni is like and is helping to make my first year a fantastic experience.”

Bronson, 20, began at another university after graduating from Urangan State High School in 2013, but said he left because he was not ready for study and was not sure it was the right degree for him.

“I decided this year to enrol at USC because I realised how hard it was to find work without an education or experience,” he said. “My first-year experience has been brilliant. It has been challenging, but I am starting to master time management and motivation.”

Bronson said being able to live at home while he studied was a major advantage. “When I think of how much my parents support me financially and emotionally, I just do not think I could do it any other way,” he said.

USC Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill said Open Day at Fraser Coast was designed to assist both Year 12 students planning for life after school and those looking to change careers or upgrade their skills and qualifications.

“No matter where you’re at in the decision-making process, Open Day will help you consider what you want to achieve by going to university,” he said.

“Many people are nervous about starting university, and are not sure about what to study.

“Our Open Day panellists will have first-hand advice on how to choose the right program and career path based on interests, strengths and goals, and how to prepare for study and balance university with other priorities.”

Almost 20 degrees and pathway programs, including new first-year subjects in Environmental Science and Secondary Education, will be showcased at Open Day at USC Fraser Coast on Saturday 8 July.

Another Open Day will be held at USC’s main campus at Sippy Downs on Sunday 23 July. USC will run a free bus services for interested Fraser Coast residents who would like to attend.

— Clare McKay