Swinburne's Sarawak campus gives students an international edge
Swinburne student Larisa says that her semester exchange at Swinburne Sarawak has helped her expand horizons and learn personal skills away from home.
In summary
- Swinburne student Larisa Aloyts feels ready to take on the challenges of today's worklife after expanding her horizons and skills studying abroad.
- The semester in Kuching was an immersive experience that has taught her valuable life skills and unique perspective into the life of other cultures.
- With financial help from the Swinburne Abroad program Larisa was able to experience Malaysia to the fullest without the pressures of financial worry.
Bachelor of Health Science/Bachelor of Business student Larisa Aloyts feels that she is well equipped to handle life’s challenges after a semester living in Malaysia and studying at Swinburne’s Sarawak campus.
“I went on exchange because I wanted to explore the world and learn about new cultures. I had hoped to gain new experiences, friendships, and soft skills,” she says.
She studied three of her Business units while embracing Kuching's relaxed lifestyle, clean environment, and friendly people.
Larisa says that an exchange to Swinburne Sarawak “will be the highlight of your degree”.
Learning new skills
Larisa found that living and studying overseas changed her perspective and allowed her to feel like a local and fully immerse into a new way of life. The experience enriched her study and personal development.
"I’ve gained interpersonal and intrapersonal skills. Living in a foreign country tested my patience, resilience, and perseverance. I know that I am much better equipped now to handle any future challenges in life,” she says.
She explored local beaches and islands, visited cultural sites and embarked on weekend tips with her friends. With Malaysia's easy access to the rest of Asia, Larisa also travelled to Vietnam and Thailand during her exchange.
Without the pressure of financial worry, Larisa could comfortably see and do more in Malaysia.
Financial support is available
Larisa chose Swinburne Sarawak because of the ease of matching units and the government assistance available.
When completing an overseas program through Swinburne Abroad, eligible students can receive an OS-HELP Loan of up to $8,817 (as of 2023). This money will then be added to the student's HECS-HELP debt. Additionally, the New Colombo Plan is an Australian Government grant available to eligible students studying in the Indo-Pacific region (including Asia).
"With funding, Sarawak was a really affordable location that allowed me to live comfortably and experience more without financial pressures,” she says.
Shaping your future
An international experience can inform and impact navigating life after university.
“I felt so welcomed at Swinburne Sarawak and fell in love with the natural beauty and people of Malaysia. I have made so many connections during my semester exchange and I would love to visit again. I am also considering job opportunities that would allow me to work remotely so I can travel,” she says.
There are a limited number of $4,000 grants available for students going on exchange to Swinburne Sarawak in Semester 1, 2024, with applications closing on 1 November 2023.
Contact the Swinburne Abroad team to start planning your overseas adventure.
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