When I first started university in Melbourne, I struggled to juggle everything — keeping my grades up, adjusting to a new environment, and finding where I truly belonged. It wasn’t easy at first, but through small, consistent efforts — reading good books, joining extracurricular programs, and volunteering — I gradually turned what felt like a stressful challenge into one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Reading, in particular, became my anchor. Instead of limiting my learning to coursework, I made time to read whenever I could — after tapping my Myki card and hopping on the train, during class breaks at the campus café, or just before bed. Those short, quiet reading moments helped me see things from new perspectives and manage stress in ways that felt natural and gentle. Here’s a list of the books that carried me through my busy, fulfilling university days — and continue to guide me today. I hope they bring you the same spark of motivation and calm inspiration as you navigate your own journey forward.
