Mr Purcell started at The Australian National University (ANU) in the ACT by on-campus studying, but returned to Dubbo when coronavirus cases in the ACT began to increase the campus was closed.

"Since the campus closed I've been back in Dubbo and will be doing my degree online for the rest of the year," he said.

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Mr Purcell said although changes caused by COVID-19 have made the settling into the routine of studying 'more difficult', he has still found his first year to be a fun experience.

"My time on campus was really enjoyable, however, the campus got shut down mid last semester, which has resulted in some pretty interesting classes online," he said.

"I have found it a lot more difficult to be productive while studying online and from home than when I could actually attend lectures in person, but when I managed to get into a routine, it got a lot more manageable."

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Mr Purcell said it had been pretty difficult to connect with his new peers as the only communication available with them was mostly through tutorials once a week.

But regardless, Mr Purcell is confident in continuing his studies with ANU.

"I wouldn't say I've had any big epiphanies regarding university this year, but I do think with all the changes that have been made due to COVID-19 restrictions that it will be a few years before things go back to normal, if they ever do," he said.

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"I can definitely see online learning becoming much more integrated into general university life considering all the changes that have been made."

"All I can say is, at this point, it's going to be a very weird year, but if you're truly interested in what you are going to study, you'll enjoy it regardless."

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