Name: Chan Yik Wa (Cheryl)
Degree: Bachelor of Communications majoring in Public Relations and Advertising (Currently on exchange)
Why did you choose the University of Newcastle?
The University of Newcastle has flexible entry requirements for international students and it has unique courses that are not offered by other universities. Courses like performing arts, music production and sound production. It is very rare to have such courses at any of the universities back home in Hong Kong. I went to Australia ten years ago with my family for vacation. I was a kid at that time but since then, I have been curious about what university student life will look like and have always wanted to come back here as a student. So, I grabbed this opportunity and applied for the Exchange program.
How will this Exchange program help you in your journey?
I think my journey in Australia and here at the university will have a huge influence on my future planning. I’m studying a Bachelor of Communications majoring in public relations and advertising. I’m also doing marketing as my minor subject. With the knowledge I gain from performing arts and music production courses here at the University of Newcastle, I want to make more creative advertising and marketing strategies to reach larger audiences. This experience will also open a lot of career opportunities for me. I love music and I have been busking as a hobby but after understanding how music production works, I have the option to make music professionally and stepping into the entertainment industry.
How are you finding Australia and Newcastle so far?
Well, I think Australia is really nice. It’s peaceful, relaxing and welcomes diverse cultures. I think Newcastle is a very artistic place. I live in the North Tower on Callaghan campus but I attend classes in the city. I use the free NUspace Shuttle service every day to commute and it is fantastic. I thought I had to pay at first but then I discovered I just had to tap on with my student card. That’s it! It saves me so much time and money. It is perfect for students. Every day when I commute, I get to see buildings with murals and paintings. I find them fascinating. There is even a gorgeous lady mural on the wall in the courtyard of NUspace itself. I also love how the university provides a Security Shuttle service. I have used it a couple of times when travelling back home at late hours. They take you or pick you up from the suburbs around Callaghan, like Jesmond and Birmingham Gardens. Overall, I think Newcastle and Australia are really fun.
What do you want to say to future students?
I know that travelling miles and moving to another country with a whole different culture can be overwhelming, but it is such a lovely experience that you should never miss out on. I get to learn how to be independent and meet a lot of people. Join clubs, socialise, and go to lots of events (there are specific events for international students as well). I went to a treetop adventure park; it was fantastic! Remember also to make sure you reach out and ask for help when you need it. You are not alone.