14 February 2025

Love can be more than just romance and hearts. It can also be about noticing and being thankful for what we have in our daily life.

February is often seen as the month of love – a time for roses, chocolates, and teddy bears. It’s the perfect season to celebrate relationships, affection, and all things sweet. But, while we’re caught up in the excitement of Valentine’s Day, let’s not forget that there’s another powerful theme within love: appreciation.

As the university year gets into full swing, students everywhere are racing from lecture to lecture, thumbing through course outlines, and getting their study plans in order. It’s easy to get swept up in the rush of the academic calendar, but that’s exactly why this edition of In The Know is all about taking a moment to pause and reflect. We invite you to focus on appreciating the little things that often go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

We’re all so busy, and sometimes it takes a conscious effort to notice what brings us joy. Maybe it’s the quiet moment when you step outside and soak up the warmth of a sunny day. Maybe it’s discovering a bargain on something you’ve had your eye on. Maybe it’s feeling grateful for the people who support you or simply finding peace in the small things. Appreciation helps us savour those moments and not take them for granted – and it makes our days more memorable.

This month’s edition brings together an incredible range of content to help you think about appreciation from different perspectives. We’re thrilled to feature Carmel Walsh as our guest writer. Carmel delves into the fascinating diversity of English, one of the most widely spoken and diverse languages in the world. What makes English so unique? What makes it stand out in terms of its adaptability, global reach, and constant evolution? You’ll have to read Carmel’s insightful piece to fully understand the true beauty of this beloved language.

We also have a special piece from THRIVE Intern Jolin, who explores the topic of self-appreciation. In a world where we often focus on others, it’s so easy to forget to show ourselves the same kindness. Jolin encourages us to reflect on the importance of appreciating who we are, boosting our self-confidence, and embracing the positive qualities that make us uniquely ourselves. After all, we wouldn’t hesitate to uplift our friends and family – it’s time we start doing the same for ourselves.

And of course, we can’t forget the creative wonders of our Photography Club, whose members each share their personal outlooks on life through their stunning artwork. Their photos capture not only moments in time but also the stories behind the lens. Every photographer has their own vision, and each image tells a different tale. We invite you to look closely and ask yourself: What story do these photos tell you? What emotions do they evoke? There’s a richness to the way these photographers capture life that we can all appreciate.

Appreciation, in all its forms, reminds us that happiness is often found in the simplest of moments. Read it here!


Got a story you’re itching to tell?

Remembered a moment during your student days that will resonates with other students?

Want to brush up on your creative writing and comprehensive skills for your professional portfolio?

Feel like leaving your mark within the UNSW College community?

We want to hear from you!

Email the “In The Know” editor Vivian He at [email protected] and pitch your student experience story for a chance to get featured on the website and in our next issue.

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