UTS Think Global

Dream. Explore. Discover.

Recent posts

Disclaimer: All blog posts are written by students and do not necessarily reflect the views of UTS staff.

  • Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

    Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

    Participating in the Global Short Program in Milan was a great experience where I was able to study as well as immerse myself within another culture. Staying in Milan was not only enjoyable for seeing all of the famous historical landmarks, but for the people that I was able to meet as well. Lake Como was the highlight of my trip. I was able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake surrounded by mountains as well as the historical streets and shops. Additionally, travelling with a group of students that I had met during the course made it even more of a memorable experience.

    Another memorable experience was exploring the city at night, all the streets were busy until extremely late hours which is very different to Sydney’s nightlife. The night-time energy created a sense of community within the city which I enjoyed very much. It also helped how public transport ran for almost all hours of the night allowing for an easy experience getting home late at night.

    During my stay I was forced to embrace a new way of living, learning how to balance the coursework that I was given as well as exploring that city and going out at night. Another important thing that I learnt was embracing the cultures of the people that I had met. I became friends with people from all over the world, learning about how they viewed the world around them. These new connections have turned into lifelong friendships that I value very much.

    Another highlight from the trip was experiencing the exquisite food that Milan had to offer. With such a variety of restaurants, I was able to try many dishes that I have never had before, I could explore the different culinary traditions. This provided me with a newfound appreciation with how food plays such a vital role in culture.

    One key takeaway from this program was that this experience has inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and always be open to trying new things. It has taught me how putting myself in unexperienced situations forces personal growth and helps develop valuable skills.

    Emmanuel Androulakis
    Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Bachelor of Creative Intelligence and Innovation
    Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy
    Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship

    For more information about the UTS Global Short Program visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal

  • Academic Life in Japan

    Academic Life in Japan

    Because I study in FEIT (Faculty of Engineering & IT), there are not too many options to take direct equivalents overseas, so I am using my free electives to take some subjects for fun! I think exchange is the best place to use up your free electives, you definitely won’t regret it! At Kansai Gaidai University (KGU) in Japan, I am using the equivalent of x3 free electives (18cp) to study 4 subjects at my host university in topics of interest. My subjects are the following:

    • Japanese (Level 2)
    • Kanji & Readings (Level 2)
    • 20th Century Asian History Through Film
    • Shinto

    The campus life here in Japan is quite different from UTS. Timetables run in a period-style format similar to high school, unlike at UTS where subject times can vary. This means that all classes here run for the same length (1.5 hours), whereas classes at UTS can be of different lengths. Also in Japan, all classes are in person (no online lectures!) and attendance counts towards your final grade for the subject. I think this scheduling helps you be organized and keep a good routine, but it’s definitely less flexible than UTS and more time-consuming.

    Connections & Cultural Experiences

    One of the most rewarding parts of my exchange has been the friendships and networks I have built. Kansai Gaidai University and the YUI Global Commons dorms provide such an easy environment to make international friends. The Asian Studies Program is tailored for international students, making it a natural hub for meeting people from all over the world. Additionally, local Japanese students at Kansai Gaidai are very open to making friends with international students, as many of them attend the university to gain global exposure and international experience. These factors have created a truly enriching and diverse social experience.

    Although I did not participate in any specific programs, the open and welcoming environment at KGU made it easy to form deep connections. Whether through casual conversations in the dorms, shared classes, or group outings, I have built friendships that I hope will last beyond this exchange.

    Exchange Reflection

    Studying abroad in Japan has been a life-changing experience that has pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and academically. Living in a different country has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of open-mindedness. I have become more independent, learned to navigate challenges in a new environment, and developed strong cross-cultural communication skills.

    One of the biggest takeaways from this experience is the value of international friendships. The connections I have made here will last a lifetime, and I am incredibly grateful for the people I have met. Exchange is not just about studying; it’s about immersing yourself in a new way of life, challenging yourself, and making unforgettable memories. Japan has given me a fresh perspective on both my personal and professional goals, and I hope to take what I have learned here into future global opportunities.

    Life in Japan – TIPS!

    I feel like I have just arrived in Japan, but I have already been here for more than half of my exchange semester! Time flies quickly, and in a country like Japan where there are so many different places to explore and travel, I regret not getting in more trips in my first 1-2 months here. Yes, it’s important to settle in and have rest, but if you are capable, make the most of any free time you can!

    Don’t forget about nature! Yes, it is fun to go out with friends to hang out, but Japan has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world! I am getting really into hiking here and also exploring/traveling to unpopular destinations with stunning scenery. I will remember that the most!

    In Japan, where everything is cheaper and there are so many cool things or snacks you want to buy, make sure to budget consistently! All those small convenience store snacks or trinkets you buy add up quickly, and it’s best to keep track of it daily to stay organized.

    Check for student discounts! Especially if you are going to travel, you can ask your host university to issue you a coupon for shinkansen (bullet train) tickets, which gives you 20% off!

    Overall, this experience has been one of the most enriching chapters of my life, and I would encourage anyone considering exchange to take the leap—you won’t regret it!

    Ysabella Miguel
    Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Diploma in Professional Engineering Practice
    Kansai Gadai University, Japan
    New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant Recipient

    For more information about the UTS Global Exchange program please visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal

  • Global Exchange in Asia

    Global Exchange in Asia

    Kansai Gadai University, Japan

    “In Osaka got to pose as Kiki from my favorite Ghibli film in the same pose she is in, in the movie poster. Such a fun moment!”

    — Madeleine Ridey

    Korea University, South Korea

    “Cheering OT – KU Buddies showed us the main cheers that are used at universityfestivals and events.”

    — Teressa Tram Le

    Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

    “A fun fact about my exchange is that when you go to a hawker centre or a mall food court (which they call a “”kopitiam””), people reserve tables with a small object of theirs to tell anyone who’s passing by that “”this table is taken””. And everyone in Singapore is so respectful that they won’t ever take that person’s table!

    I’ve loved living here in Singapore! It’s been great making new friends, both locals and internationals, experiencing the Singaporean culture by riding the MRT train or eating at hawker centres, and being able to explore not only Singapore but other neighbouring countries as well!”

    — Katelyn Del Rosario

    RMIT Vietnam

    Killer feeds, wild nights, and endless adventures. Couldn’t ask for more in Vietnam! 🍜🥖

    — Patrick Kennelly

    Sophia University, Japan

    “Japan so naturally rides with the 4 seasons where surroundings and people slowly change and adapt. With each season, a meaning, which each passing day, a change. Life is never just one moment nor determined. I’ve learned to keep walking day by day, rather than live in an unimaginable length (the future) or moments I cannot change (the past).”

    — Zheng Yen Ooi

    Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea

    “Exploring the vibrant streets of Jong-gu in Seoul, Korea, left me wishing I had packed warmer clothing for the adventure”

    — Nelufer Raji

    Spring 2023 & Autumn 2024
    New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant Recipients

    For more information about the UTS Global Exchange program please visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal

  • A Hands-On Dive into Environmental Consulting: My Internship at MRA Consulting

    A Hands-On Dive into Environmental Consulting: My Internship at MRA Consulting

    This semester, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to intern as an Environmental Consultant with MRA Consulting, thanks to Arcadia Abroad. As someone passionate about both chemical engineering and sustainability, this internship has been the perfect way to explore the intersection of my interests while gaining valuable, hands-on experience in the field.

    MRA Consulting is one of Australia’s leading environmental consultancies, specializing in waste and recycling, circular economy strategies, and sustainability planning. They work closely with government bodies, businesses, and communities to develop solutions that reduce waste, improve recycling systems, and promote long-term environmental resilience.

    As an intern on the Organics Team, I’ve been involved in a wide variety of meaningful projects. Our team focuses on organic waste management—including recycling, composting, and reuse—and I’ve had the chance to contribute to projects that address these topics from both technical and policy perspectives.

    A typical day runs from 9 to 5 in the office, and every Monday kicks off with a team meeting where we align on weekly goals and project updates. From there, it’s been a whirlwind of research, data analysis, and real-world fieldwork.

    One of my first tasks was helping to draft a waste management plan—an essential component for businesses and councils looking to reduce their environmental footprint. I also dove deep into international composting systems, analyzing compost quality requirements in countries like the UK, Germany, Austria, and Finland. This research helped inform our recommendations on compostable packaging and nutrient standards, and I even used tools like Google Maps to visualize and compare practices across regions.

    Another major project involved research for a client interested in launching a new facility. I gathered data on gate fees for commercial and industrial waste from three different companies, allowing the client to compare pricing and make informed business decisions.

    One of the most hands-on parts of the internship was working on Bin Trim Projects, which involved conducting visual waste audits at local food courts and businesses. Before heading out, I participated in safety briefings and background research on reusable product brands. Then, I visited businesses in person, conducted bin inspections, and entered data into the Bin Trim app to help develop tailored action plans. This experience helped me improve both my technical knowledge and my communication skills, especially when speaking with business owners and staff.

    I also contributed to research for a client in the process of acquiring an organic waste company. I used data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics to estimate organic waste volumes across each Local Government Area (LGA) in New South Wales—essential information for evaluating potential investment opportunities.

    This internship experience deeply aligned with the UTS BUILD values and gave me new insights into what it means to be a global citizen and future leader. One of my biggest takeaways was understanding the complexity and interconnectedness of environmental issues—how waste management is not just a local concern, but a global challenge that requires international collaboration, cross-sector communication, and culturally sensitive solutions.

    Through BUILD, I’ve developed an awareness of global citizenship, and this internship helped put that into action. Learning how different countries tackle composting systems, and seeing how policies and infrastructure vary, made me more aware of the importance of intercultural competency in engineering and environmental consulting. What works in Germany might not work in Australia or Indonesia—and successful solutions need to be adapted thoughtfully.

    This experience also empowered me to step into a leadership mindset. Whether it was contributing ideas in weekly meetings or taking initiative on a research task, I was encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and take ownership of my contributions. That confidence and sense of agency are things I’ll carry forward, both academically and professionally.

    My passion for sustainability has long been grounded in science, but this internship showed me the human and policy dimensions in a tangible way. It reinforced my belief that engineers must be socially and environmentally conscious—especially when working on systems that affect entire communities. It also reminded me of the power of communication: even the most data-driven solutions rely on meaningful conversations and collaborative planning.

    This experience challenged and expanded my understanding of “social and environmental sustainability”—a core BUILD value—by exposing me to real-world trade-offs and practical constraints in consulting. It’s one thing to study sustainability in theory; it’s another to weigh environmental goals against financial realities and operational logistics. I saw firsthand how consultants advocate for sustainable solutions while navigating competing stakeholder interests.

    Going forward, I plan to take what I’ve learned and apply it not only in my future career as a chemical engineering consultant but also in my everyday life. I’m more aware of the importance of waste systems, more mindful about the packaging I use, and more confident in starting conversations about sustainability in professional and personal contexts.

    In the spirit of BUILD, I hope to continue engaging in global challenges, seeking intercultural experiences, and contributing to solutions that support both people and the planet. This internship wasn’t just a learning experience—it was a step toward becoming the kind of global leader and change-maker I aspire to be.

    I’m incredibly grateful to Arcadia Abroad, MRA Consulting, and UTS BUILD for helping me bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world impact.

    Maaike Snider
    25770013
    Chemical Engineering

  • Leeds’ International Summer School

    Leeds’ International Summer School

    Hi! My name is Mitchell, and over the 2024 winter break I was able to partake in a Global Short Program at the University of Leeds’ International Summer School in England. For two weeks I attended a subject focusing on Business and Cultural Awareness, and had the opportunity to do incredible things and meet incredible people from all over the world. Here’s what it looked like:

    Uni classes:

    Class at the University occurred daily from 9:30am to 12:30pm, where we had eight days of lecture and discussion content, one presentation day and one excursion day to a company in Leeds to further our understanding on the importance of cultural awareness in the corporate world. I found that overall, my perspective into how different cultures can mutually benefit from other’s in the business environment. It was even better experiencing this by sharing stories with classmates from places all over the world like Canada, USA, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore and the Philippines. As the only Australian in the class, some of the corporate cultural experiences shared were certainly eye-opening!

    Class excursion to Nexus

    Uni life:

    The uni life in Leeds was like nothing I have experienced in Australia. All the students stayed in the same residency, with our own dorm rooms and shared living spaces. It was a perfect way to meet new people, many of whom I’m still in contact with today. I found that everyone was in the same boat as me; not knowing anyone and wanting to make friends. This was certainly made easier with the nightly social events put on by the LISS support team. In addition to these social events, the LISS team also organised weekend and afternoon trips and experiences all around Leeds and England. Getting to go to Knaresborough, Nottingham and Whitby were certainly highlights, as well as getting to watch the Leeds Rhinos play at Headingly.

    Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem, Nottingham (the oldest pub in England)
    Knaresborough
    LISS’ Farewell Social

    Overall, the Global Short Program in Leeds was one of the best things I’ve done. I couldn’t recommend doing a GSP enough anywhere all over the world if you get the chance. I know I’ll certainly try and go again!

    Mitchell Black
    Bachelor of Business
    University of Leeds, United Kingdom
    Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship

    For more information about the UTS Global Short Program visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal

  • HTW Berlin, Germany

    HTW Berlin, Germany

    Earlier [last year], I had the privilege of participating in the International Summer School program, a collaboration between HTW Berlin, Swinburne University of Technology, and the University of Technology Sydney. This was a great opportunity that allowed me to expand my knowledge, connect with a global community, and grow both personally and professionally. The program was structured in two parts: three weeks in Sydney in February and three weeks in Berlin in July.

    A Journey Across Two Continents

    Our journey began in Sydney, where we were immersed in a vibrant academic and cultural environment. The three weeks there were filled with workshops, group projects, and site visits to tech hubs, allowing us to apply what we were learning in real-time. What stood out the most during this period was the opportunity to work with international peers on practical projects. I was part of a team working on Digital Twin project which was super interesting as it was an area of technology that I hadn’t encountered before. This not only tested my technical skills but also pushed me to think more creatively and learn all about this new interesting topic.

    In July, I found myself in Berlin, a city known for its innovation and history. Berlin’s approach to tech, particularly in areas like AI ethics and autonomous industrial robotics, and it was different from what I’d experienced in Sydney. This contrast helped broaden my perspective on global tech trends and how different regions prioritise different aspects of technology. The hands-on experience we gained, especially while working on projects with real-world applications, was invaluable. Also being able to experience the atmosphere of the euros finals was amazing, the public viewing was packed with thousands of fans and was one of the best sporting experiences I have had. Berlin offered a different pace, and this allowed me to refine my skills further in a more thoughtful and introspective way.

    Learning From Experts

    One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was learning from esteemed professors from HTW, Swinburne, and UTS. Their expertise and passion for the subjects they taught really stood out. I particularly appreciated the way they blended theory with practice. We didn’t just sit in lecture halls—we were constantly encouraged to apply what we learned through projects and discussions. The practical focus, combined with insights from experts in the field, made this program one of the most hands-on and engaging learning experiences I’ve had.

    Building a Global Network

    Beyond the academic experience, one of the biggest highlights for me was the opportunity to build an international network. Collaborating with students and professionals from around the world exposed me to new ideas and approaches. The discussions we had extended beyond technical topics—we talked about culture, societal challenges, and how technology can impact the world in diverse ways. This program also emphasised the importance of inclusion, with a particular focus on supporting women in tech. I was lucky to witness firsthand how diverse teams lead to more innovative and effective solutions, which will undoubtedly influence the way I approach teamwork in the future.

    Personal Growth

    In addition to gaining technical knowledge, I grew a lot as an individual. Being in different countries, navigating different cultures, and working with international peers taught me flexibility and resilience. The experience has made me more confident in my ability to adapt to new environments and tackle challenges head-on.

    To any students considering this program, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s more than an academic exchange—it’s a chance to broaden your horizons, both personally and professionally. I’m grateful for the experiences and friendships I gained through this journey, and I’m excited to carry these lessons into my future career.

    Samuel Molloy
    Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Bachelor of Business
    Faculty Led – FEIT – Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin – Global Women in Engineering and IT Summer School
    DAAD Scholarship

    For more information about the UTS Global Short Program visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal

  • Finding Love in Toronto

    Finding Love in Toronto

    “Some of the students come to stay here for a few months and are still here after 15 years! They meet someone in the house and fall in love”, Jess mentioned as she led me through the doorway across the wooden floor and into the office of the coop residency. Just one of the many townhouses lined up rows, towering three stories tall. Once housed the wealthy and affluent of Toronto, now simple rooms for student accommodation. “No chance of that happening”  I quickly replied. Jess, old enough to be my mother, simply smiled wryly before handing over the eftpos machine. Beep, four Months of Monthly accommodation paid for.

    Toronto – Canada’s largest city is home to Toronto Metropolitan University, my school for the next semester. Fun fact, Drake has a mansion here. Ryan Reynolds and Kenue Reeves called this place home. Even Colonel Sanders lived in Mississauga when he opened the Canadian branch of KFC.  A place where you could find a weed shop, next to a weed shop, across the road from another weed shop, or however the saying goes. And if it’s not that there is a ‘shroom’ shop (promising a good time), or a quaint Tim Hortons (Coffee shop), or a loaded Poutine1 and pop2 for $9.99+tax3 something shop. Where the popular car and SUV of choice is a Chevrolet.

    As an aspiring filmmaker, I was eager to make the most of the maple leaf country and its thriving film industry. This was sure to be an adventure I thought as I dropped my bags on the grass, a warm late August summer breeze blowing the leaves of trees I could only assume were maples, birch, and evergreen pines…no eucalyptus here. Nearby, the fluttering red and white bands juxtaposed a bright crisp red maple leaf. I was on exchange in Canada, my first time ever in North America and in the northern hemisphere.  WOW. I could pinch myself.

    I easily settled in, despite a debilitating cough, Later, I learned it was an ailment known as post-nasal drip. This is where I present my first tip. Health insurance is capital overseas. I ended up visiting the emergency department numerous times in downtown Toronto. I did not have to pay a cent, thanks to my university’s included travel insurance and the mandatory health insurance covered by my host university. Illness aside, I found myself surrounded by Canadians, and some Americans. Canadians from Vancouver, regional Ontario and the Torontonio’s suburbs. Then Americans from Chicago, Connecticut and New York State. It was a blast. I had already made a few friends during the hyped-over-the-top orientation week, won a little money and pocketed plenty of freebies, tote bags, pens and paraphernalia.

    I found that I really didn’t see many of my orientation friends once ‘school’ began as many of them were from other disciplines. During orientation, I was able to take a city immersion tour where I did get introduced to an Australian and a couple of New Zealanders. 

    I quickly decided that this trip was about meeting Canadians so I decided to go back and talk to one of the girls that seemed friendly, easy to talk to and knew a lot of the answers to my continuous questions and exclamations. I really didn’t think much of it. I got excited when she mentioned she had contacts that worked at TIFF4 (Toronto International Film Festival).  After connecting on Instagram, and running into each other a number of times during orientation, we ended up seeing much of each other outside of class as well, hanging out in the student lounges with her friends. It was one of her friends who suggested we try a vegan restaurant in Yorkville. One thing led to another so let’s just say we have shared many more meals since.

    Global exchange experience is definitely life changing. I’m not saying this because I met a person (iykyk)5.  As a communications and production major, I got to produce shows in on-campus studios, make commercials, and short films, one of which won six in-class audience choice awards, including best cinematography. I got an amazing opportunity to travel, including a weekend trip to Niagara Falls and Buffalo NY, Christmas in New York City and so much more local travel. I’m not suggesting that if you have the chance to go on an exchange you expect to meet someone, it’s best not to plan and see.

    In conclusion, this is my story of how an exchange from Sydney to Toronto was the most exciting, eye-opening, life-changing experience. I highly recommend it. Wherever you go, you won’t see the world the same way, forever becoming a global citizen with a wider global perspective. 

    A cold blustery wind whipped snow flakes into my face as I dragged my suitcase down the steps of the cooperative.  I walked through the crunchy snow to the office to say my final goodbye. But it wasn’t cold.  Sure, I was wearing my warm winter coat from Decathlon rated to -40ºC but I was not alone. I was warm in my heart. And yes, I had to admit that Jess from the cooperative was right. I had only been in Toronto four months but it had felt like four years. Why? Because I found love in Toronto.

    1. Poutine: Canadians national dish consisting of fries, gravy, and cheese curds. ↩︎
    2. Pop: a can of soft drink; sodapop ↩︎
    3. +tax: Tax in Canada is added to the purchase at checkout, something I was not able to get used to ↩︎
    4. TIFF: Toronto Film Festival; a prestigious, world leading fil festival often attended by many Canadian and American celebrities, actors and filmmakers ↩︎
    5. iykyk: If you know, you know ↩︎

    Anonymous
    Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Media Arts and Production)
    Toronto Metropolitan University, Canada

    For more information about the UTS Global Exchange program please visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal

  • Sampai Jumpa, Jakarta!

    Sampai Jumpa, Jakarta!

    At the end of September 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a two-week Global Short Program in Jakarta, Indonesia. If I could describe my experience in three words, it would be nothing less than: transformative, immersive, and enriching.

    I was introduced to the Global Shorts Program and International Internships through my university program coordinators, who very brightly described the opportunities and their experiences with the program. Having never completed an overseas internship program nor travelled overseas by myself, I saw this as an opportunity to open myself to new learnings and growth and was inspired to apply for the program. I can say with full confidence that it was one of the best decisions I have made for both my professional and personal development.

    The program itinerary was extensive but thorough, ensuring all participants were able to gain a well-rounded cultural and professional experience. We were able to meet so many inspiring students, companies, and leaders in the Indonesian fintech and VC space, and visit the Australian Embassy in Indonesia, as well as many communities in urban and rural regions of Indonesia. Moreover, the program was filled with many wonderful cultural experiences. One of the highlights was our visits to the Bogor Botanical Gardens and Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, a beautiful microcosm of the country with replica buildings, artworks and other artefacts from the different regions of Indonesia.

    During the program, I was also involved in a group project in collaboration with Amartha, a fintech company which serves as an intermediary facilitating P2P lending and other financial services for rural communities. It was an invaluable experience working on a project aimed to attract and uplift ultra-MSMEs and women entrepreneurs in Indonesian rural communities through digitisation. I also had the opportunity to participate in volunteering and social impact projects, being involved in river-cleaning and sustainability initiatives in Bogor with WWF.

    What stood out to me most about Indonesia was the contrast in values and lifestyle compared to Australia. There was a deep emphasis on respect and courtesy, fostering harmony, unity and understanding. Communication was expressed beyond merely words but also in body language, tone and facial expression. I also appreciated the culture of generosity shared in Indonesia. This was displayed in gift-giving, and I was grateful to receive various Indonesian snacks and cultural souvenirs, and I personally reciprocated this by sharing some Australian souvenirs.

    I felt very comfortable throughout my journey in Indonesia and found the financial landscape very exciting, particularly with the rapid growth of fintech in the country. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Indonesia and would definitely consider living and working in the Indo-Pacific in the future.

    If you want to broaden your horizons, experience new cultures, and are interested in potentially working or living overseas in the future, I definitely recommend embarking on an exchange program!

    Terima kasih, Jakarta!

    Ethan Nguyen
    Bachelor of Accounting
    International Internships – Indonesia
    New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient

    For more information about the UTS Global Short Program visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal

  • Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

    Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

    I am very honored to have the opportunity to go to Nanyang Technological University for this summer exchange program. It was truly an unforgettable and meaningful experience in my life. I really recommend it so students sign up for this program. It not only allowed me to experience the semester life of different schools, but also let me meet classmates from all over the world. This gives me the opportunity to make many different friends and learn more about little-known cultures, which is very interesting.

    First of all, on the first day, I arrived in accordance with the requirements of the school and successfully checked into the school. The next day is a school activity to learn about the attractions in Singapore. We visited many famous places in Singapore during this activity. At this event, I also met my best friends who were playing for the next month. The third day is an ice-breaking event. We were divided into more than 20 groups and had some interesting photo shoots. The friends in each group had a great time. At the end of the activity, we made a lot of interesting friends.

     Next, we entered the study life. I took the course 3D PRINT & ADD MANUFACTURING. It was really interesting. The teacher is a famous expert in this field. All the students are very honored to study with this teacher. The teacher’s explanation was very detailed in class. We could not only see the text in the ppt, but also found many pictures and videos for us in order to help us better understand the working principle of each printer. Even in class, we can get 3D printed works for close observation. The exam is also very challenging. In order to get a good grade, I often revise late into the night. But it also gave me a deep understanding of this course and major.

     In addition, the school will prepare many activities for us, such as Asian Night and so on. Asian Night was the most impressive event for me. We not only saw great performances, but also tasted delicious food. Finally, the school even held a livehouse for us students. We gathered together to cheer and dance. Move our bodies to the music. It’s really interesting.

    Zihan Zhang
    Bachelor of Information Technology
    Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
    Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship

    For more information about the UTS Global Short Program visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal

  • Study Tour at Fiji National University

    Study Tour at Fiji National University

    My participation in the New Colombo Plan (NCP) Short Study Tour at Fiji National University (FNU) for Nursing and Public Health students was an experience I will never forget. Before the trip, I created three goals for myself including immersing in Fijian culture, meeting new people, and discovering the true meaning of the NCP trip for myself. I not only achieved this but so much more.

    To immerse myself in the Fijian culture, I was given the opportunity to try traditional foods, attend ceremonies, explore public transportation and was welcomed into the Namosi and Naloto Villages. I particularly enjoyed trying new foods such as kokoda (fish with citrus, coconut milk and vegetables) and cassava (a root vegetable) and being exposed to the rich village culture. The UTS group was welcomed with a beautiful ceremony, given tours, shared stories, sung, danced and even tried kava! These experiences provided me with a deeper understanding of Fijian culture, making my cultural immersion truly enriching.

    Prior to the trip I only knew one other UTS student attending the short study tour, but the program encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone. I quickly formed close friendships with my UTS peers as well as FNU students and staff. Engaging in various activities such as playing volleyball with FNU students and watching an inter-campus competition allowed me to witness the camaraderie and spirit that define the beautiful Fijian culture.

    Through reflecting, I have been able to create a unique meaning for the NCP short study tour. I felt a huge sense of gratitude for being part of this special opportunity, especially being part of the first group of UTS students to travel to FNU. The warm welcome made me feel at home, and living on campus enabled me to mingle with students spontaneously and engage in informal activities, deepening my understanding of the caring, friendly community culture Fiji possess.

    Academically, I was interested in visiting the Samabula Child and Family Health Centre and the St Giles Psychiatric Hospital and my involvement in theory learning provided a unique insight into healthcare services in Fiji. I developed a fascination for public health organisations such as the WISH (Watershed Interventions for Systems Health) and RISE (Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments) which work to achieve water sanitisation and decrease the prevalence of water-borne diseases. There was also a conference with the Australian High Commission which was an excellent opportunity to discuss the relationship between Australia and Fiji in improving health systems.

    This trip also fostered paramount personal growth. I have learnt the importance of understanding diverse backgrounds and effective communication to build trust, a skill so valuable in my future as a nurse. The adaptability I gained from living in a different country enhanced my cultural sensitivity and resilience in professional settings. My journey to Fiji pushed me to embrace new experiences and connect with people from different cultures. I feel empowered and keen to apply the lessons learnt in both my individual and professional life. It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I will forever cherish, and I would encourage anyone thinking about it to apply for one, vinaka (meaning thank you in Fijiian)!

    Tara Joyner
    Bachelor of Nursing
    Faculty Led – HEALTH – Fiji Study Tour
    New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient

    For more information about the UTS Global Short Program visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal