“It wasn’t really about the braille itself, since they could have easily had it printed elsewhere. It was knowing that they truly saw me and made the effort because they understood what I needed.” 

For Jessica, studying in Australia was an opportunity to deepen her understanding of inclusive education by experiencing it firsthand. After spending ten years supporting students with visual impairments in Taiwan, she wanted to discover how another country approached accessibility, student support and belonging in education.  

As someone who is visually impaired herself, that journey was deeply personal. Her own experiences had shaped not only the way she learns, but also the kind of educator she aspired to be.  

“I really wanted to keep learning and see how other countries approach this field, so I decided to come to Australia for my Master’s degree.” 

Looking for a university with strengths in special education and a city with a slower pace of life, Jessica was drawn to Flinders University after recommendations from both friends and her education agent. 

Before beginning her Master of Individual and Specialised Education, Jessica completed the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program at Flinders University Academy, where she built the academic English, confidence and skills needed to transition successfully into postgraduate study. 

More than an English language program, EAP prepares international students for the realities of studying at an Australian university. Through small classes and tailored support, students strengthen their academic English while developing critical thinking, independent learning and academic writing skills, becoming part of the Flinders community before their degree even begins.  

For Jessica, that preparation made the transition into her Master’s feel seamless. 

“The Academy program gave me such a good head start. It helped me get used to academic writing early on, which has made a real difference for my Master’s now.” 

Just as importantly, the program introduced her to the many support services available across the university, from learning support and library resources to mental health and disability services, giving her confidence before classes had even begun. 

“Knowing all of this before classes even started made me feel so much more prepared and at ease.” 

Inclusion in Action 

While the Academy prepared Jessica academically, it was the genuine care shown by staff that left the greatest impression. 

Even before she officially started her studies, Academy staff worked alongside an orientation and mobility trainer to better understand how they could support her transition to campus. Rather than assuming they knew the right approach, they took the time to learn how to make her university experience as comfortable and accessible as possible. 

“It wasn’t really about the number of people involved, it was the fact that they cared enough to bring everyone together at all.” 

That same care continued long after orientation. 

While Jessica was still building confidence navigating campus independently, Academy staff met her each morning after she arrived by Uber and walked with her to class. They even worked to identify the safest and most convenient drop-off location, making one part of her daily routine just a little easier. 

Together, these everyday acts of kindness transformed what could have been an overwhelming experience into one where Jessica felt supported, confident and free to focus on her studies. 

“Going to school stopped feeling like something to worry about.” 

Inside the classroom, that personalised support continued. Her teachers worked with Jessica to provide learning materials in the formats that suited her screen reader and individual preferences, ensuring accessibility wasn’t simply available, it was tailored to her needs. 

One moment, however, has stayed with her more than any other. 

When students completed the EAP program, Jessica received both a printed graduation certificate and a Braille version prepared especially for her. 

“It wasn’t really about the braille itself, since they could have easily had it printed elsewhere. It was knowing that they truly saw me and made the effort because they understood what I needed.” 

After spending ten years supporting students with visual impairments, Jessica unexpectedly found herself experiencing the same thoughtful inclusion she had dedicated her career to providing others. It was a simple gesture, but one that perfectly captured what she believes makes Flinders different, not just the support available, but the genuine care behind it. 

Campus Life at Flinders University Academy 

Beginning her journey at Flinders Academy meant Jessica was already familiar with campus life before starting her Master’s degree. Studying in the heart of Flinders University’s Bedford Park campus gave her the opportunity to build friendships, become comfortable with the university environment and enjoy a lifestyle that felt very different from the busy city campus she attended back home. 

Between classes, she enjoys taking walks with friends, getting some fresh air and taking a moment to recharge before returning to her studies. 

“Here, after class, I sometimes walk around the campus with friends, get some fresh air, and just take in the surroundings. It really helps me clear my head in a way a city campus never could.” 

Those moments of balance have become an important part of her university experience, creating the space to slow down, reflect and enjoy life beyond the classroom. 

Living in Adelaide as an International Student 

Choosing Adelaide proved to be just as important as choosing Flinders. 

The city’s relaxed pace of life, multicultural community and welcoming atmosphere made settling into Australia feel easier than Jessica had imagined. Although moving overseas came with its challenges, Adelaide quickly began to feel like home. 

“The food here is wonderfully diverse, you can find dishes from all over the world, and there’s even Taiwanese food when I need a taste of home, so I don’t feel too homesick.” 

Knowing she could enjoy familiar flavours while also experiencing new cultures made the transition even smoother. 

“It’s a place that’s easy to live in and easy to study in, and I really think choosing Adelaide as my first stop in Australia was the right call.” 

More Than a Master’s Degree 

Jessica came to Australia hoping to learn how another country approaches special education. What she found was much more than a new education system. 

Through her studies, the people she met and the support she experienced, she gained a deeper appreciation for human rights, inclusion and the importance of valuing every individual. 

“Something that really stood out to me is how seriously Flinders takes human rights and inclusion. It’s not just something they say, it’s something I actually experienced.” 

While she’s still considering whether her future will take her back to Taiwan, into a PhD or towards opportunities in Australia, she knows the experience has shaped her in ways that extend far beyond her career. 

“These two years here aren’t just about gaining knowledge. They’ve also changed the way I think about human rights, about valuing every individual, and about becoming more independent in my own life.” 

Jessica came to Flinders to study inclusive education. She leaves having experienced it firsthand. 

And for her, that’s been the most valuable lesson of all. 

Ready to begin your own journey? Explore the pathway programs at Flinders University Academy.