Hey everyone! I am very excited to share my transition journey from India to Australia which began in early 2020, just before the global onset of COVID-19. It was an exciting yet challenging period. Moving to Australia offered me a wealth of opportunities to explore new academic and cultural horizons, but the timing presented unique obstacles.
The initial months were filled with the usual challenges of settling into a new country, adapting to a different education system, building a local support network, and getting accustomed to life in Melbourne. However, as the pandemic unfolded, these adjustments became more complex. The restrictions meant fewer in-person interactions, but I embraced virtual learning and networking to stay engaged. Despite the unexpected circumstances, this experience taught me resilience and adaptability. The transition ultimately helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I deeply appreciate how the supportive academic environment at Monash University eased this journey.
Smooth admission and visa experience in Australia
Why Australia??? I selected Australia for my higher studies because of its globally recognised education system, which emphasises both research excellence and industry engagement. Initially, the opportunity to pursue a dual degree offered by RMIT and FH Aachen drew me to explore international education, blending the strengths of Australian and German institutions. After completing my studies in Germany, the impactful research at Monash University, particularly led by Dr. Tom Hughes in hydrogen technologies, motivated me to return to Australia. The innovative work and collaborative environment at Monash were pivotal in my decision to continue my academic journey here.
The admission and visa processes were relatively smooth and efficient for Australia. When I first applied to RMIT, the admission process was quick, with the offer letter arriving in just a few days. This gave me confidence in how streamlined things could be. For my PhD admission at Monash University, the experience was equally seamless. The university promptly processed my application and provided an offer letter and a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) without delays. Monash’s responsiveness and clear communication made the process hassle-free The visa process was surprisingly user-friendly, thanks to Australia’s online system. I appreciated the flexibility of being able to upload required documents even after lodging the visa application, which significantly reduced stress. Overall, both Monash and the Australian visa platform ensured a straightforward and supportive transition to study in Australia.
My university colleagues and classmates have been incredibly welcoming throughout my journey in Australia. At RMIT, the meet-and-greet events and orientation programs played a significant role in helping me connect with other students and classmates. These events made it easy to build friendships and integrate into the university community. When I transitioned to Monash for my PhD, I experienced the same warm reception. Additionally, the Monash Graduate Association (MGA) hosts regular networking events, which I’ve found very helpful. These events not only foster a sense of community but also offer great opportunities to connect with peers across various disciplines. The support and camaraderie from my colleagues have made settling into academic life in Australia an enjoyable experience.
Australian education system
Adjusting to the Australian education system has been a rewarding experience. The emphasis on independent learning and critical thinking has been a shift from the more structured approach I was accustomed to. The focus here is not just on acquiring knowledge but on applying it creatively to solve real-world problems, which I find both challenging and exciting. The accessibility of professors and supervisors, combined with an open, collaborative environment has been particularly helpful. My professors, have encouraged me to take initiative and think innovatively, which has significantly enhanced my research skills. Additionally, the resources provided by Monash University, such as workshops, seminars, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, have been instrumental in my academic journey. While there was a learning curve in adapting to this system, the support and opportunities have made the transition smooth and highly enriching.
Homesickness and challenges as an International student
Now when I talk about experiencing homesickness, especially during festive seasons and important family events. To cope up with that I always try to stay connected with my family and friends through regular video calls. Engaging in activities like exploring local spots, attending university events, and connecting with the Indian community here has also helped. Staying busy with studies, later with research and setting small goals has been a great way to stay focused and positive.
And when it comes to challenges, one of the initial challenges I faced was finding suitable food options because I am an vegetarian, especially when eating out. I quickly learned to explore local grocery stores and Indian shops for ingredients to cook at home. My go-to meal is a simple yet comforting dhal chawal or dhal rice which is easy to prepare and packed with flavours.
Well for accommodation, adjusting to shared living arrangements was a bit challenging at first, but clear communication and setting boundaries with housemates helped create a comfortable space. Overall, budgeting and learning about utility services were part of the settling-in process, but asking for advice from experienced peers and university support services made it manageable.
Advise to prospective students to manage their finances
As an International student, managing finances effectively is key to making the most of your time as a student in Australia. So start by creating a budget to track your income and expenses. This will help you prioritise essentials like rent, groceries, and transportation. Explore student discounts for public transport, entertainment, and shopping; every little bit adds up! Cooking at home is not only healthier but also much cheaper than eating out. Try meal-prepping and buying in bulk to save even more. For income, consider part-time work that aligns with your schedule. Australia offers great opportunities for students in flexible roles.
Finally, don’t forget to set aside some savings for emergencies or unexpected expenses. Managing your finances isn’t just about making ends meet; it’s about creating peace of mind so you can focus on your studies and enjoy the incredible experiences Australia has to offer!
The author is an PhD student at Monash University, Australia.
