“The time I spent at Flinders University Academy, as well as my teachers and classmates, are irreplaceable treasures to me.”
For Motoki, the decision to study in Australia marked the beginning of a deeply personal journey. Originally from Japan, Motoki had never studied overseas before and knew that building strong English skills would be essential to achieving his long-term goal of becoming a social worker. More than anything, he wanted to prepare himself to support others through life’s most challenging moments.
That journey began at Flinders University Academy, where Motoki spent 10 months completing the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program, gaining the academic and practical skills needed to progress into a Master of Social Work at Flinders University.
Building Academic English Skills at Flinders University Academy
Starting at the Academy gave Motoki the space to adapt to a completely new academic system. Rather than focusing solely on language basics, the EAP program introduced him to how learning works within an Australian university – from research and academic writing to collaboration and discussion-based learning.
“At Flinders University Academy, I learned not only simple English skills, but also how to write essays in English, how to conduct research, hold group discussions, and reflect on how to learn from each other and express my thoughts at university.”
Coming from Japan, where the education system is structured quite differently, this shift was significant. By the end of the program, Motoki felt prepared to engage confidently in postgraduate study and move forward with clarity.
“I will now begin studying in earnest for a Master of Social Work.”
Support That Made a Difference
Moving to Australia alone came with challenges, but Motoki quickly discovered that support at Flinders extended far beyond academics. From improving his English skills to settling into everyday life in a new country, he felt genuinely looked after throughout his journey.
“I was particularly weak in reading and writing, but the teachers patiently supported me in improving my English.”
That care went beyond the classroom and into student wellbeing and day-to-day support.
“Although it’s hard to come to a foreign country alone, I was able to get through it thanks to the staff.”
As Motoki progressed into university life, this sense of support only grew stronger.
“I also often hear that Flinders offers high quality student support compared to other universities. This is something I still feel very strongly now that I’m a student at Flinders. For example, there’s a food market for students every Thursday at Oasis, and I participate in a five-week mindfulness program run by a professional psychological counsellor.”
“I’m enjoy a fulfilling student life, so I’m happy to have enrolled at Flinders University.”
Together, these experiences reinforced something important for Motoki – success at Flinders isn’t just about academic results, but also wellbeing, community, and feeling supported every step of the way.
Finding Community Through Campus Life
Beyond study, Motoki found a strong sense of belonging within Flinders’ diverse and inclusive campus community. With student-led events, support programs, and a welcoming atmosphere, campus life offered more than just study – it offered connection.
“Flinders University has an international environment, so there are student-led events and a variety of support programs for students.”
He also valued the range of learning spaces available across campus, which allowed him to stay motivated and adapt his study routine.
“There are many study spaces on campus other than the library, so I find it great that I can change where I study depending on my mood or the task at hand.”
Finding Focus and Balance in Adelaide
Having previously spent time in Sydney, Motoki found Adelaide’s quieter pace better suited to focused study and wellbeing. The city offered a balance that allowed him to concentrate on his goals while still enjoying life outside of university.
“Compared to Sydney, Adelaide is a smaller city, which means it has a better environment for concentrating on your studies.”
That sense of balance extended to Flinders University itself. When Motoki attended O’Week the natural setting of the Bedford Park campus left a lasting impression.
“I saw that the campus was beautiful and surrounded by nature, and I felt that I could study hard here for two years.”
Combined with Flinders’ strong reputation in health, welfare, and social work education and its well-known student support services the university felt like the right place to continue his journey.
A Pathway to a Career in Social Work
Now beginning his Master of Social Work, Motoki is focused on building a career grounded in empathy, care and meaningful connection. He is particularly interested in child protection and mental health services and hopes to work alongside people during their most challenging times.
“I believe that life has its good times and its bad times. I would like to become a social worker who can gently support people through those bad times.”
Looking ahead, Motoki also hopes to give back on a broader scale by creating his own community project, using the knowledge and experience gained through his studies to support others.
As he reflects on his journey so far, Motoki sees Flinders Academy as the place that helped him build confidence, adapt to a new academic culture, and take his first meaningful step toward a career dedicated to helping others.