Yumi Li-Vi, BA Communication and Media with Sociology spent a Semester Abroad at Macquarie University, Australia

Why did you apply for Study Abroad?

I wanted to experience learning in a whole new environment, immerse myself in a new culture and meet new people. I believed it would also provide great life experience for the future.

Tell us about your favourite memory of your time away or one thing you will never forget.

One of my favourite memories whilst away was going to Shark beach with a huge group of friends from the student village to cliff dive. I was so scared to do it at first but after I jumped, I felt so proud of myself and it was something to tick off the bucket list. The day was so wholesome with everyone just chilling on the beach, eating Thai food together whilst we watched the sunset with the most amazing view of Sydney’s city landscape.

What advice would you give to someone who isn’t sure about applying?

Just do it, put yourself out there and immerse yourself in a whole new culture and country, you will not regret it. It is so refreshing and inspiring to be in a new study environment and super exciting to be in a completely new country with tonnes of places to explore, new friends to meet and memories that will last forever. It can be scary at first and it can take a bit of time to settle in to get used to things but just stick it out, say "yes" to everything (in moderation) and you will honestly have the time of your life experiencing a new sense of freedom.

How did studying abroad prepare you for your future career?

I feel that it has inspired me a lot. I went to networking events and talks about future careers that gave me ideas about what I can do with my degree after I graduate. Also, personally, my goal now after my final year is to go back to Australia and work there for a while as I loved it so much. So, I feel a lot more motivated to get my work done now so that I can go back. Furthermore, my course over there offered modules that I could not take back at home such as a journalism module that I took whilst out there. This has given me an insight and taught me skills for a career path that I intend to go into for the future.

Do you think study abroad will make you stand out when applying for jobs?

Yes, because employers not only look for work experience but also life experience and by moving to a new country alone and studying there shows a lot about a person (e.g. Confidence and independence) which can be valuable when standing out from the crowd.