Akira
Japan
Institution attended in home country: Nagoya University of Foreign Studies
Institution attended in Australia: The University of Newcastle
Akira’s
home university in Nagoya, Japan, has a sister university in New South
Wales, making it easy for Akira to arrange an exchange to Australia.
Apart
from knowing that many other students from his university had been here
on exchange, Akira was also attracted to Australia because living
expenses are affordable compared with the United States, Canada and the
United Kingdom.
Akira received help from staff at his home and
host universities when organising his insurance, homestay and other
details. “They played a role as a bridge,” he says.
After an
initial stay with a host family, Akira is now sharing a house with two
other students which he organised through an online real estate website.
When asked whether his experience in Australia will be an
advantage in the future, Akira is very enthusiastic: “Yes, definitely
yes!” He feels that the experience and independence he has gained will
give him “mobility” in his future life.
Akira is satisfied with
the academic side of his exchange, but is also enjoying the
opportunities for interaction and growth that studying in another
country offers. “I can meet up with a lot of new people who are from not
only Australia but also from all over the world. It is really nice,” he
says.
Akira’s advice to students thinking of coming to Australia is: “Don’t hesitate.”
“Australia
can provide you with enormous and awesome experiences. Going to a
different country is always a big challenge, but once you get used to
the situation where you are, it is wonderful!”