So how did some regional and rural New South Wales students with slower and less reliable internet connections cope with the move?
Narrabri born and bred April Squire shared her story.
“I loved going to school from an early age so it came as no surprise to my family when I enrolled with the University of New England to study a Bachelor of Education specialising in Science and Technology.”
The first of her family to enter university April wanted the complete campus experience and elected to study fulltime while living in Duval College.
And, like so many of her peers, April had to return home and continue her studies online when COVID-19 hit.
“I moved back to Narrabri and my parents’ farm and while both UNE and Duval was very supportive during the whole process, I had some practical challenges which they couldn’t help me with.
“I quickly realised that limited internet connection in rural areas meant downloads speeds slower than rainfalls in a drought. But I was determined to not let COVID-19 disrupt my studies.”
April turned to her local Country Universities Centre (CUC) for connectivity and additional study support.
“CUC North West has been a lifesaver; allowing me to continue my studies as the world try and regain its feet.”
“The CUC provided a fast and reliable internet connection which meant I was able to keep up with lectures, download readings and submit large assignments.
“The personal support I got from familiar faces assisted me academically in many ways including to schedule one-on-one meetings with a former lecturer. I found the atmosphere both motivating and peaceful, which is always conducive to study.”
From a student perspective, the location of CUC North West also ticked a number of boxes for April.
“It’s right next door to the town library and directly across the road from excellent coffee. But my favourite is that it backs up to a public primary school which is an epic everyday reminder as to why I should keep on keeping on.”
Country Universities Centres provide increased access to higher education for students in regional, remote and rural areas by offering dedicated study facilities 24/7 as well as wraparound support from Centre Managers and Learning Skills Advisors.
CUC North West operates in Moree and Narrabri. It is one of six community-governed Centres operating from eight regional NSW towns.
In addition to centres in Taree, Tamworth and Sydney, UNE has a network of Regional Study Centres in the New England North West, and works closely with CUC staff to develop successful models of support for regional students who are using the Centres to study online, including training in UNE processes and programs.
For April the way forward is clear.
“I like to be in control, in the driver’s seat. During a pandemic, we all have to sit back, ride the wave and take what is thrown our way. I keep on top of my studies by focusing on what I can actually control, and thanks to CUC North West, that includes my tertiary education.”
April plans to stay and work in Narrabri after graduation musing “there’s just something about the shadows of Mt Kaputar and the cotton lined highways come harvest time.”