The Perks of Being an International Student in Australia

Are you an international student thinking of studying in Australia?

Perhaps you’re exploring your options. Or maybe you’re already here and are just looking for some reassurance that you made the right call. Well, whatever reason you’re reading this, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a roundup of the perks you’re bound to experience as an international student living in Australia—from an international student herself.

1. Discovering your niche.

You’ll find some of the most specialised courses down under. Never thought of circus arts as a real course? (Yes, you read that right!) How about a program for brewing some beer? Think again!

More often than not, you won’t find many of the programs offered here back in your home country. So, you’re destined to have an edge among your compatriots. Studying in Australia will give you a chance to set yourself apart, so if an opportunity presents itself, go grab it.

2. Exchanging cultures.

You’ll meet people from all corners of the world and get to exchange stories from home. Australia is incredibly diverse, so expect to meet people from countries you may have never even heard of and backgrounds you may have never come across.

Although some cultural differences may come as an initial shock to you, you’ll learn to break walls that divide us and build bridges that unite us. And it’ll feel pretty darn good!

3. Gaining experience.

Here, you get to study and earn on the side! Growing up in Asia, this is something out of my comfort zone and definitely not the mindset I’ve been accustomed to. But it’s never too early to build your resume and start saving up.

Plus, your parents may never agree to pay for certain things so why not start saving up for them with your own money? Working is also a great way to learn how to save.

4. Saving on discounts.

As a student, Australia knows how to treat you right!

Enjoy discounts and deals on food, shopping and entertainment. Each week, restaurants and fast food chains have regular specials while museums and attractions all have special concession fees for students.

Most online stores even have a promotion code that lasts the duration of your university program, so that’s pretty much like having one endless sale (ah-maaa-zingg)!

If you’re ever looking for some great steals just check out Student Edge for the latest deals. From one Asian to another, it’s time to make your Asian parents proud and get those bargains!

5. Getting used to productivity

For some reason, you’ll just find more hours in the day to do what you need to do here.

Unlike many other places (*coughs* Asia) you won’t be spending most of the day stuck in traffic.

And when the day seems too long to spend indoors, you’ll never run out of mountains to climb, oceans to swim and land to trek.

6. Navigating independence.

Australia also gives you enough space to learn how to take care of yourself!

You’ll learn to navigate the public transport, manage your expenses, pay your bills and maybe even cook for yourself.

On days you’re lacking motivation, just remember it’ll get you one step closer to becoming husband or wife material!

7. Finding certainty

In the end, all these experiences will make you rather than break you.

It won’t always be easy– moving away from home can and will get to you at times.

But one day you’ll wake up and reflect on the life you’ve built for yourself and realise that you’re right where you need to be.

So if you’re thinking of studying in Australia, brace yourself for the adventure of a lifetime (and some pretty great food too)!

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