2018–2020 international student leadership and ambassador program alumni

University of Sydney
Bachelor of Speech Pathology

We grow by contributing what we have, improve by conquering challenges and excel through serving others. Being able to participate in the international student leadership and ambassador program gives me an opportunity to sharpen my existing skills as well as broadening my horizon. It also provides a platform for me to bond with other international students, exchange ideas and inspire others when running events. 

I chose Sydney because it is one of the world’s most multicultural cities and with great opportunities to develop my global network. I really love how Sydney embraces different cultures so peacefully and there are always big events like Vivid Sydney bringing people together to enjoy great times together. Sydney is a city where people would have a nice chat with you when you are sitting on a bench admiring the beautiful natural environment. Everything here is just lovely, the people, the environment, the feeling of another home.

Australian College of Applied Psychology
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

Sydney’s cultural diversity helps me as an international student fit into the society and be involved more easily. I am keen on making friends and building my social network with people from different countries and developing cultural competence, which is one of the most important principles of social work. 

Australian Catholic University
Bachelor of Inclusive Education and Disability Studies

I hope to further integrate learning, spirituality and community engagement in my experience as an international student through the international student leadership and ambassador program. I am passionate in sharing my experience, culture and thoughts with both international students and local students as well as listening to them and developing my understanding of what student's inspirations and needs are and what opportunities and platforms they want.

I am inspired by my university's mission, to use my gifts and talents to serve the common good, contribute to the human community and serve the disadvantaged. I have a strong drive to improve the life quality of people with disabilities and also build an inclusive community for everyone.

There are lots of opportunities available in Sydney, so much to see and to do and to understand. I feel strong as I feel lots of love from people around me and I think it is time to spread the love and kindness. I am always willing to give any support that I could give to help others as I believe an inclusive community is beneficial for anyone to learn and grow. 

University of Sydney
Master of Commerce (Big Data and Marketing)

There are more than 35,000 international students in Sydney, and the international student leadership and ambassador program provides an excellent chance for international students to make friends, improve skills and gain leadership and teamwork experience in the community. I am looking forward to meeting people from different cultures with different stories, and enhancing my cultural intelligence and communication.

There have been so many new and interesting things since I came to Sydney. It is the first time I meet so many friends from different countries. We can share a lot of new things and traditional dishes with each other and explore Sydney together. Before I came here, I had never eaten kangaroo meat and it is quiet novel for me to taste it. I am also so curious about the life in the southern hemisphere. For example, I really want to know what it is like to celebrate Christmas in summer. 

University of Sydney
Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Advanced Studies

I have always wanted to be engaged in this city and I am working on it by participating in the international student leadership and ambassador program. I call on more international students to get out of our comfort zone and be engaged – or at least have a try – in this new culture. It is so much fun and really worth it. I believe that the program could be a bridge connecting the international students with this wonderful city.

Sydney has always been my dream destination. During my study abroad trip here in Year 6, I have already experienced the hospitality of its people. Sydney is really a good place to live in and I love the pleasant weather here. I perceive Sydney as the economic and cultural centre of Australia and the most energetic city in the world. It is also an integration of historical heritage and modern technology. I appreciate and look forward to all the potential opportunities here.

University of Newcastle
Master of Professional Accounting

As an international student ambassador, I have the enthusiasm and love for service to understand the difficulties of other international students and establish channels for communication between international students and local students. I am very eager to contribute to the local community. I would like to make friends with people from different countries, improve leadership skills, practise English and help other international students to have a better experience in Australia.

Living in a foreign country can make us feel lonely and helpless, but I overcame this through enjoying Australia's free and diverse culture. I love Australia even though it is not my motherland as it brings me many opportunities and good memories. 

University of Sydney
Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Biomedical Engineering) and Bachelor of Science (Advanced)

The international student leadership and ambassador program helps me develop essential skills to become a world citizen and a professional that understands the importance of cultural competence. It enables me to challenge myself to walk out from my comfort zone and observe an issue before making a judgment. I would love to contribute my time and knowledge to build a better city, help international students to enjoy their time studying here and aid them to become future leaders. I am honoured to be one of the many who can help shape the future of Sydney by representing the international students and helping out those in need.

I chose to study in Sydney because of its rich history and my experience so far has been invaluable. Sydney is a diverse city that attracts talented people from all around the world, and a vibrant city that has unlimited potential where there is much to explore and much to enjoy. 

Western Sydney University
Bachelor of Arts (Pathway to Teaching) and Master of Teaching (Birth to 12)

I have been living in Sydney for a few years now and my experiences have deepened and broadened my understanding of this city. Now, I would love to contribute through the international student leadership and ambassador program to make positive changes for the international student community in Sydney. I participate in the program not just to improve my personal skills and future development, but also to work with others, to inspire and be inspired by them and give back to the community.

I believe that I would not be where I am today without being engaged in the university’s community by participating in student activities, as it opens up new opportunities. As international students, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a new place and work on things we are interested in to make the most of our experience. Be grateful and be fearless! Being in Sydney has inspired me that no matter where I am I can achieve my dreams and goals.

 

University of New South Wales
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws

As an international student ambassador, I am highly motivated to take on new opportunities and challenges to improve the wellbeing of international students. I believe in the importance of communication and I would like to help international students from diverse backgrounds with different personalities express themselves and their creative ideas, and ensure that students have better access to information and resources.

I chose Sydney for its multicultural chasm of opportunities, ease of accessibility and the quality of education provided. I have had an absolutely phenomenal experience in Sydney so far. Moving here has helped me to become more independent, become more self-aware and be able to put myself out there a lot more. This experience has only been an upward journey for me. This opportunity to become the best version of myself and this experience be it academic, professional and based on leisure is something I want to share with every other international student in Sydney.

Australian Catholic University
Master of Professional Accounting

The international student leadership and ambassador program provides many opportunities for me to do volunteering and helps me develop skills like public speaking and communication. This is a platform where one can explore oneself to learn entrepreneurship and leadership skills by working in a group to complete the projects.

One of the biggest achievements in my life is to come abroad at a very young age for further studies and experience how it is to be independent to work and study at the same time. My experience in Sydney so far is really good. Sydney provides you with lots of opportunities to develop personally and professionally. It is the best place to study as the education system offers a wide range of courses and degrees and enjoys a strong global reputation for internationally respected qualifications, high-quality research and teaching, cultural diversity and a safe study environment.

University of Technology Sydney
Masters of Engineering Management

I believe the international student leadership and ambassador program is a great platform to learn and develop leadership skills and various problem-solving techniques. This gives me an opportunity to learn as an international student about different cultures and life experiences of others. I would like to bring to this program my leadership qualities, innovative thinking and diversity. Through the program we can give international students confidence that Sydney can be an amazing destination to shape their career and make them aware of all the opportunities available in Sydney beyond university life.

I have had a very pleasant experience so far in Sydney and I am sure this city will mark the turning point in my life and my career. Having come this long way from my home country is one of the greatest achievements of my life. I believe it is very much necessary to jump out of our comfort zone to grow. I would not have been able to understand my full potential and capabilities without facing any challenges.

University of Technology Sydney
Bachelor of Nursing

I had a dream to pursue my career overseas and Sydney is a perfect destination to turn your dreams into reality. I have attended a couple of international student leadership and ambassador program events in 2017 and I am driven by the passion of the team to bring together international students like me in Sydney. It is now my dream to take it to another level by being an international student ambassador. I am keen to get involved, make new friends and give back to the community.

I chose Australia because it is a vibrant, diverse and beautiful country. Sydney is a perfect study destination for international students as a multicultural city that offers great education. Sydney's reputation of being safe for international students helped me to convince my parents who had fears of all sorts on sending their daughter to face the world at such a young age. It has been an amazing city to live in where you can achieve your goals and grab onto the endless opportunities. My decision to study and live in Sydney has been one of my best decisions so far.

University of Wollongong
Master of Science (Supply Chain and Project Management)

The international student leadership and ambassador program provides a platform for me to hone my leadership and professional skills and help contribute to the well being of international students. Being an international student myself, I understand how difficult it is to settle down in another country, away from family and friends. I came to Australia in early 2018 and my experience so far has been mostly pleasant but with certain bumps along the way in the form of home-sickness. The community and my university have been very supportive in this regard which has helped me overcome these feelings and gain more confidence to a huge extent. Taking part in multiple events for international students conducted both by the community and my university also helped me be more comfortable with my transition.

I want my fellow international students to have such opportunities to see how welcoming and warm the community is and have a very pleasant student experience. Being a part of the program will provide me with an opportunity to help other international students to settle down and have a positive and engaging experience in Sydney. 

University of Technology Sydney
Bachelor of Communication

I believe the international student leadership and ambassador program is an opportunity to challenge myself in an interesting project that will be not only helpful for others, but will also teach me valuable life lessons, new skills and how to get to know people from all over the world.

The one thing I’m most proud of was finding the courage of stepping out of my comfort zone and the commitment to leave my hometown and beloved ones to pursue a new life in Sydney, a city that I fell in love with and now happily call home. Living abroad and being responsible for myself is definitely a step further into becoming my future adult self.

I had no doubt in choosing Sydney when it came to find the perfect destination for my study experience since I had previously visited it and loved every side of it from the climate and quality of university education, to the culture and infrastructure. It is a great city to live in for its attractions, events and natural beauty and I truly could not be happier to have the opportunity to experience it every day.

Western Sydney University
Bachelor of Nursing

The international student leadership and ambassador program is all about building bridges between international students and Sydney. Being an international student, I am very excited and enthusiastic about the program and very committed to participating in it. The program is a chance for me to learn and better my leadership skills and be the voice of international students. I am also excited to interact and work with people from different backgrounds, appreciate the diversity and be culturally intelligent.

Sydney is a diverse city with a rich culture and quality universities. I love the public transport system as I am able to explore and adventure very easily. There are so many events in place that enable one to build networks and friends. Sydney is also very beautiful with many amazing beaches and places. All in all you can study, learn about different cultures and travel all in one place.

University of New South Wales
Bachelor of Engineering and Bachelor of Commerce

As a freshman in Sydney I did not have any background knowledge or friends, and I struggled to figure things out alone until I made local connections. It might have been different if someone could have helped me get local experiences. That is why I wanted to participate in the international student leadership and ambassador  program myself.

I had been studying in Adelaide for approximately 9 years. I decided to study solar engineering in Sydney and meet different people from across the globe. My experience of living and studying in Sydney has been fantastic so far. I have met a lot of friends who I can rely upon in times of hardship and been able to expand my knowledge through my degree. Also, I am able to have affordable food from all the different nations which makes me happy.

University of Sydney
Bachelor of Arts (Economics and Finance)

I joined the international student leadership and ambassador program because I wanted to leave my comfort zone and be the change I have always wanted to see. I also look forward to meeting other like-minded students from different cultures and share experiences and thoughts so that we can grow together to bring a positive change to our community in the future. I believe that the program could be a tool for me to make a difference in the experience of international students. It is the great opportunity to challenge and develop myself.

I chose Sydney because I have read that Sydney is an international student-friendly place. I really love the fact that Sydney has people from all over the world. My future goal is to learn as many languages as I can, so Sydney is the best place for it. Making the decision to study abroad is one of the most important decisions that people make, and I want to share my real experiences to help others decide.

Australian Catholic University
Master of Professional Accounting

I participate in the international student leadership and ambassador program to gain valuable workplace experience during my stay in Australia so that I can implement my learnings back in my home country. I do not want to go back just with a degree on hand. Instead, I want to make the most out of my experience here. I find this opportunity to network with diverse international peers and industry professionals an exceptional opportunity for an exchange of knowledge, culture and experience. I want to help, inspire and encourage people who have to accomplish their dreams and this program is a perfect platform for me. This program will encourage me to see my future self as someone who is thoroughly professional, who knows exactly what she wants, who sets her eyes on a goal and does not lose sight of it until it is achieved. This program is a perfect platform for me to achieve it.

Sydney is a vibrant, exciting and busy city, one of the most beautiful and liveable cities in the world with beautiful beaches at short distance. I enjoy this city's multicultural vibe, good infrastructure and spectacular environment.

University of Technology Sydney
Juris Doctor Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice

I am honoured to be part of the international student leadership and ambassador program to be able to learn skills outside of the university, make new friends and create a bigger network for myself while experiencing what it is like to be part of a group that can support fellow international students. Apart from studying, I volunteer in the community and work part-time in multicultural radio broadcasting. Through these experiences, I have experienced the real meaning of diversity and multiculturalism while meeting wonderful people and having the opportunity to showcase the stories of people in my community.

Having lived in Sydney all the years I have been in Australia is one proof that I have recognised and loved the city of Sydney, having known its amazing tourist attractions, loved its weather and friendliness of its people, along with my positive work and everyday experiences in Sydney. I will be able to best promote the city as the preferred city to truly experience what it is like to live in Australia where people of diverse background meet and share their journey of a lifetime.

Kaplan Business School
Master of Accounting

I came to Sydney for quality education and I do not want to limit myself within the lessons being taught inside the classroom. I want to grow holistically and maximise my potential as a student. Through the international student leadership and ambassador program, I can develop effective skills that will help me build a successful career while contributing to the welfare of the international student community in Sydney. It is a win-win situation that I am enthusiastic to be part of. 

Being here in Sydney as an international student is one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. Sydney is a city that interlaces modernity, technological advancement, and cultural preservation. It is one of the most diverse cities around the world with people of at least 200 nationalities and a land of opportunities where one gets to learn something new every day.

Kaplan Business School
Master of Accounting

The principle of paying it forward whenever possible was instilled in me at a young age. The international student leadership and ambassador program provides clear avenues for me to share the learning and duplicate the acts of kindness and support I have received since I relocated to Sydney.

My understanding of the international student ambassador role is to serve as a strong positive envoy of the Sydney community and of its international students. As a student working part-time, I know first-hand the challenges of maintaining work-life balance more so in a foreign land. But with support from family and new-found friends who are on the same boat, life sails smoother. The vibrant city of Sydney also makes a huge difference. The abundant beauty of its well-maintained environment – beaches, national parks, city developments – posed for everyone to enjoy is priceless. This makes having quality time with family and friends very much possible.

University of Sydney
Master of Professional Engineering (Biomedical)

My role as an international student ambassador is to help international students make the most of their time in Sydney. I have been in Sydney since February 2018 and I would love to help fellow international students to settle and enjoy their stay.

I chose Sydney as my destination of study because of the exciting researches and studies happening in the biomedical engineering field here as well as the good quality of life. I am enjoying every second in Sydney and I learn every minute not only at the university but also in the community. I enjoy the creative architecture and stunning views around Sydney especially around the Harbour Bridge.

University of Wollongong
Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies

I find the international student leadership and ambassador program a great stepping stone for my future career that helps both my personal and professional growth. The program offers valuable opportunities for me and fellow international students to enhance our skills, boost our confidence, gain professional experience and grow. I look forward to helping international students feel welcome and that Sydney can truly be their second home.

I came to Australia seeking an education that can equip me with the essential knowledge and skills and get me ready for life, and provide opportunities to explore a country that has beautiful nature and is rich in culture, make lifelong connections and create lasting memories. My journey has been amazing so far and it made me realise the hidden potential in me by pushing me to step out of my comfort zone and break my boundaries. I have met great people who are friendly and supportive. My study in Australia helped me become more independent, mature and better at taking care of myself. Exposure to a diverse society has helped me gain better understanding of other cultures.