Lessons on Education and Self-Reliance Learned from Relocating from India to Australia
Overcoming Challenges: An Indian Student's Journey at Deakin University, Australia
Adjusting to a new environment can be an exciting yet daunting experience, especially when it involves moving to a different country for higher education. This is the case for many Indian students transitioning to Deakin University in Australia.
Cultural Shift and Independence
Indian students often find themselves in a transition from a more family-centric lifestyle to greater personal responsibility. For instance, a student named Shambhavi from Telangana, who came to Deakin at 17, was initially supported through an international student homestay program that offered warmth and guidance for four months, helping ease her move towards independence [1]. Another student pursuing a master's at Deakin described adjusting to Australian culture and becoming more self-reliant, which was a critical part of their growth [2].
A New Education System
The academic environment at Deakin University emphasizes hands-on learning and critical thinking more than some students may be used to in India. The curriculum involves practical projects and industry engagement, which can be both challenging and enriching compared to the often more theoretical and exam-focused Indian system [2].
Navigating Financial Matters
While direct data on costs from the search results are limited, the mention of Deakin offering up to 100% scholarships indicates financial aid opportunities for Indian students [4]. However, international students must generally budget for tuition, living expenses, and related costs of studying abroad. Family support, as seen in Shambhavi’s case where her father helped with visa and admissions, is often crucial during this transition [1].
Managing Homesickness
Living in a new country can come with challenges, and homesickness is a common experience. The student, Shambhavi, communicated with her family daily to cope with these feelings. She also made it a point to message family members on days she couldn't get on a call [1].
Adapting to Australian Life
The student found Australia expensive, particularly in comparison to India. To manage costs, she joined various Facebook groups to find suitable accommodation within her budget. She also learned to cook on her own to overcome the food issue, finding Australian food bland compared to Indian food [1].
Supportive Community
Deakin University provides a supportive environment for international students. The university conducted welcoming events for new students, and the Deakin University Student Association (DUSA) organized events and programs to help students settle down at the university [3].
In conclusion, Indian students at Deakin University experience a move towards greater independence supported by university programs, need to adapt to a more practical and interactive education system, face cultural adjustments eased by homestay setups and orientation, and carefully manage financial aspects with help from scholarships and family [1][2][4]. Despite the challenges, the student's resilience and adaptability shine through as they navigate their new life in Australia.
[1] Indian Student's Journey: From Telangana to Deakin University, Australia
[2] Adjusting to Australian Culture: A Student's Perspective
[3] Deakin University Student Association (DUSA)
[4] Deakin University Scholarships for International Students
- To cope with the financial strain of studying abroad, Indian students might seek scholarships offered by Deakin University, as seen in the case of Shambhavi.
- The education system at Deakin University places a greater emphasis on practical projects and industry engagement compared to the more theoretical and exam-focused Indian system, which can be a learning curve for students.
- As they adapt to Australian life, many Indian students find technology, such as social media platforms and communication tools, to be crucial in overcoming homesickness, as Shambhavi did by messaging family daily.
