Leaving school and beginning study at university can be a big step for many 17-year-olds. For many it may be the first time they have been away from home for any length of time, and for most it would be the first time they have sat in a lecture theatre.

Central Queensland University’s Tertiary Awareness Program (TAP) has been specifically designed to ease the transition from high school to university for senior secondary students.

According to facilitator of the program Lyndall Thorpe, the TAP program provides year 11 and 12 students with the opportunity to learn about university life while they are still in school.

“The TAP program gets students out of the school classroom and on-campus at CQU to discover the world of university,” Lyndall said.

“It prepares students for university. It provides an opportunity for high school students to experience university life before leaving school and ensures they don’t become another figure in the dropout statistics.

“TAP is essentially about giving students a head start in their university career.

The three-day program addresses a vast array of topics including study modes, learning styles, referencing, note taking, essay writing, self disciplinary skills, living costs, budgeting, accommodation and support services.

Students will get to tour the CQU Rockhampton campus and also discuss program and course options.

The first TAP program for 2003 will run during the Easter break, from Tuesday 22 to Thursday 24 April. Accommodation is available at CQU’s residential college, Capricornia College, for students outside of the Rockhampton district.

The program will also be run in the June-July school holidays at Bundaberg and Rockhampton.

For further information and registration forms contact Lyndall Thorpe on 4923 2543 or email l.thorpe@cqu.edu.au.