Newbie 101: Your first assignment

Starting your journey at RMIT Vietnam is an exciting milestone, and your first assignment plays an important role in shaping your university experience. While it might seem challenging at first, understanding how to approach it thoughtfully can make a big difference. If you’re about to begin your studies at RMIT Vietnam, this guide will help you navigate your first assignment with confidence, providing practical tips and pointing you to valuable resources and support services available on campus. 

The first thing you might want to do is take a moment to read through the assignment instructions carefully. It’s important to really understand what’s being asked of you, including the topic, length, format, and any special guidelines from your lecturer. 

Don’t forget to check the grading criteria! This will give you a clear idea of what you need to do to earn a good grade! If there's anything that seems unclear, feel free to reach out to your lecturer for clarification. It’s totally fine to ask questions at this stage because it can save you time and help you avoid any confusion later.  

Once you have a good grasp of your assignment, it's time to plan your work! Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the big picture, try breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps, such as researching, drafting, revising, and adding the finishing touches to your work.  

As you work through each stage, consider setting personal deadlines to keep yourself on track. For example, you might aim to complete your research by the end of the week, have your first draft finished by the following Thursday, and plan to have your final revisions completed by the day before the submission deadline.

A little secret that you should know: Be sure to create a study environment that suits your needs. Find a quiet, comfortable space, perhaps a cozy corner of your home or a peaceful spot in a library, where you can focus without distractions. This can really enhance your concentration and productivity. By approaching your assignment with this level of detail and organisation, you'll not only lighten the load but also improve the quality of your work. 

Doing thorough research is important for creating great work, and the RMIT Vietnam Library is here to help you out! You’ll find a fantastic selection of academic databases, journals, and books filled with credible information that you can rely on. Whether you’re looking for the latest research in science, business, or the arts, you’ll find credible and relevant information at your fingertips! 

Plus, the library offers handy reference guides and fun workshops to help you learn how to cite your sources correctly, which is key to keeping your academic integrity intact. If you ever feel overwhelmed or need direction, our friendly librarians are more than happy to help you. They offer personalised consultations to help you navigate the research process, refine your topic, and develop strategies that will empower you to conduct effective and efficient research. 

The Student Academic Success (SAS) team at RMIT Vietnam is here to help you thrive in your studies! Think of them as your go-to buddies when you need a little extra support. They offer a great range of services, including one-on-one academic advising, helpful writing assistance, and engaging workshops designed to build those important skills you need for success. 

If you’re looking for some feedback on your drafts besides that from your lecturers, the SAS team is ready to lend a hand with constructive advice to help polish your work. They're also great at offering tips on managing your time and juggling your workload, making your academic journey a lot smoother. 

Remember, reaching out for help is a smart move and can really boost both your skills and your confidence! Whether you’re facing a tough assignment or just want to sharpen your overall abilities, the SAS team is excited to support you every step of the way.

Approaching your first assignment with a clear plan and utilising the support available at RMIT Vietnam will set you up for success. Remember that every student starts somewhere, and it is normal to face challenges along the way. With determination and the right resources, you can confidently complete your first assignment and build a strong foundation for your studies ahead.

Welcome to RMIT Vietnam, and best wishes for a rewarding semester. 

Story: Nguyen Minh Chau, a Professional Communication student at RMIT Vietnam. This article does not reflect the views of RMIT Vietnam.