First week of teaching? It’s okay to be nervous, but you don’t need to be! 

As the new academic term begins, it's normal to feel a mixture of excitement and anxiety. Whether it's adjusting to a new schedule, navigating an unfamiliar campus, or simply getting into the flow of university life, these early weeks can feel overwhelming. One of the most common concerns for students is the fear of arriving late to class. But here's the good news: it’s okay to be late!

In fact, the most important thing is that you show up, even if it’s a few minutes after the start of the lecture. Here’s why it’s no big deal, and how you can shift your mindset to feel confident, comfortable, and engaged once you get there. 

Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. You’ve got this. 

Love, 

Joe, VP Education  

Things don’t always go to plan... 

We all have moments when things don’t go as planned. Maybe you misread the timetable, underestimated the walk across campus, or got lost trying to find the right building. These things happen to everyone, especially during the early weeks when everything is still new. The key is not to let lateness stop you from attending.  

Remember, your lecturers and staff understand that this is a transitional period. No one expects perfection, and they would rather have you in class a few minutes late than not at all. So, give yourself permission to arrive late without guilt—you're always welcome! 

Overcome the anxiety... 

It’s easy to feel anxious or embarrassed when you’re running behind, but here’s a reassuring thought: arriving late doesn’t reflect your commitment or capability as a student. What truly matters is your presence and your effort to engage in the material once you’re there. Instead of letting anxiety about being late dominate your thoughts, focus on what you came to class for—to learn and grow. 

Once you walk through the door, take a deep breath and shift your mindset. It’s not about how or when you arrived, it’s about what you do from that moment on. Reframe the experience as a success—you’ve made it to class, and that’s an achievement in itself! 

Tips to Refocus After Arriving Late 

If you find it hard to switch gears after arriving late, here are a few strategies to help you feel settled quickly: 

Find a seat and quietly settle in: Locate the nearest available seat without worrying about disturbing others. Chances are, no one is paying as much attention as you think they are. Once seated, take a moment to organize yourself, open your notes or laptop, and focus on the content being discussed. 

Tune in right away: Let go of any lingering thoughts about how or why you were late. It’s easy to keep replaying the rush in your mind, but remind yourself that it’s over now. The lecture is happening, and you’re here! Shift your focus to the material being presented, and jump into learning mode as quickly as possible. 

Ask questions later: If you missed the first few minutes and feel a bit lost, don’t stress. Most lectures build up gradually, and you can catch up as you listen. If there are gaps, don’t hesitate to ask a fellow student for notes afterward or speak with your lecturer. They are there to support you, and they understand that sometimes life happens. 

Be kind to yourself: It’s easy to be hard on yourself when you’re running late, but remember that university life is a learning curve. Be patient with yourself and know that every step you take toward showing up, even when it’s tough, is a step in the right direction. 

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help 

If you ever feel lost on campus or unsure of where to go, don’t hesitate to ask a staff member or fellow student for help. Everyone on campus has been in your shoes at some point, and they’ll understand what it’s like to navigate a new environment. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a way of ensuring your university experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. 

You Belong Here 

University can sometimes feel intimidating, especially when you're adjusting to new routines. But always remember: you belong here. You were accepted because you have the potential to succeed, and no matter what challenges arise—whether it’s being late, feeling uncertain, or missing out on a portion of a lecture—you have the support of the university community behind you. 

You are not alone in this journey. Everyone, from your peers to your professors, wants you to feel comfortable, included, and capable of thriving in your learning environment. 

Keep Moving Forward 

We’re excited to have you here and wish you every success in the term ahead. The first few weeks may feel a bit overwhelming, but with each day, it will get easier. If you arrive late to class, it’s okay! What matters most is that you show up, refocus, and keep moving forward. And when in doubt, remember that we’re here to support you, every step of the way. 

Your time at university is full of opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed—embrace it all, even the moments when things don’t go as planned.

Come On In... 

We’ve worked with the University to launch a campaign to reassure you that it’s okay. We don’t always expect things to go to plan. Joe, your VP Education, and Larra, Pro Vice Chancellor Education, have asked departments to be supportive and understanding. We’ve asked them to put a Come On In poster on their doors. Encourage your lecturers to put our posters up.