What was the highlight of your overseas experience?
The whole experience was amazing. The academics were different in an imperative and insightful way, it enhanced my confidence, communication and academic skills. Meeting people internationally was eye opening, I considered myself an international individual, aligned with global governance. However, the knowledge, connections, experiences and adaptability I have gained is invaluable. I have gained connections and knowledge that is impossible to learn through academics alone.
What challenges did you face while abroad, and how did you overcome them?
The dorm conditions were not poor however, they were difficult compared to my house in Australia. The living condition resulted in me feeling lonely and home-sick. I overcome this by going with friends more, using it as an excuse to either study at cafes or go travelling in the exchange country. More importantly, I decorated my exchange room while on call with my loved ones from Australia.
What advice or tip would you give to other students considering a similar overseas opportunity?
Say yes to everything even if its scary or you don’t think it will be fun or it looks disgusting to eat. Just try it, give whatever you can a shot. Don’t be too hard on yourself either, different countries have different academic expectations.
See below a first place winning poem Syreet was awarded during the exchange program at Kyung Hee University.
This poem reflects not only my experiences but also the emotions I felt throughout my time on exchange.
The statues speak to me of history and grace as I waltz around with mystery to embrace
The flowers fall petal by petal as I unpack my bags to resettle
The campus of KHU university serves as an arena of diversity
The importance of being human is highlighted the most while the ones with stereotypes are diagnosed.
We embrace the stark of differences to move past the encountered dark of distances
We climb, we study, we drink, we sing but most importantly, we form connections that will last beyond spring.
We taste the world from this well and will forever have stories to tell
Syreet was fortunate to be awarded a New Colombo Plan Scholarship to support her experience. If you too are interested in becoming an NCP Scholar see here to find out more!