Why did you choose to study at UQ?
I chose to study at UQ for multiple reasons. Coming from Europe, we don’t have access to the same amazing facilities as the St Lucia Campus at UQ offers. It’s a very peaceful and beautiful place to study. We are given the possibility to do any sports and practice in wonderful conditions. It’s a dream to be a student at UQ. I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to remember their uni years.
What is special or unique about your program?
I love languages. At UQ, being part of the Bachelor of Arts offers the chance to study multiple languages at the same time. I have been able to go deeper in my understanding of Spanish while getting introduction courses in Russian.
Why did you choose to study in Brisbane?
To be honest it was a tough choice between Brisbane and Sydney. I always felt attracted to both cities. Looking closer to what both had to offer, I realised I connected more to Brisbane. I mean, public transport include city boats, it does not get better than that. You can go from one point of the city to the other while enjoying the warm sun on the Brisbane river. Brisbane is also the ideal size for a student. It's big enough to explore but at the same time you can quickly feel like you are at home. Furthermore, if you want a break from the city, you just have to take a train that will lead you to the breath-taking Gold Coast within the hour and enjoy a beach day very easily.
What will you do after you graduate?
As mentioned earlier, languages count a lot for me. My ultimate goal would be to work at the United Nations. I want to be able to travel, speak fluent in several languages while interacting with people and solve issues. I am very interesting in international relations and how the world works.
What challenges have you came across in your study? How did you overcome them?
When I started at UQ, it was a bit overwhelming to handle everything. The university system is very different from high school so it takes time to understand everything properly, especially when English is not your first language. However, it's a great challenge that really helps you for the future. I quickly realized that by working hard and regularly, everything works out perfectly but it requires patience and motivation.
What advice would you give to international students who are considering studying at UQ?
Australia is far far away for most international students. However, it's worth the long hours on the plane. I have no doubt that UQ will become rapidly your new home, you will be surrounded by sun and people coming from everywhere. Although, I will not lie, it can get hard. You might get homesick and miss your family and friends. This is why it's super important to go out there and try to make new friends, try to connect with people with whom you share the same passion. Join societies or join a team sport. Make UQ your new home. Before your realize it, you will call St Lucia Campus your second home, we all do.
