Life in a Foreign University | ‘PhD at Deakin University Australia is a life-changing experience’

I applied at this Australian university and got selected. Living abroad gave me a wholesome perspective on life. My appreciation towards family and their immediate support was enhanced. Engaging with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds provided me with invaluable learning experiences. I gained insights into different ways of thinking, traditions, and lifestyles that challenged and expanded my viewpoints. This exposure fostered a sense of open-mindedness and adaptability, allowing me to embrace and appreciate different perspectives.

Why Deakin University?

The focus on sustainable agriculture and nanotechnology was especially compelling. Moreover, the exciting prospects of travelling for research stays and international conferences in Australia, made this opportunity truly irresistible.

The application process was easy and straightforward with an IELTS score. After a written entrance exam and two rounds of interview, I was selected for this PhD programme. It felt like the best of both worlds. I could work in the top-notch labs under the guidance of esteemed mentors both from Australia and India while staying close to my family. The initial objectives of my research project were carried out at TDNBC, India and the rest were planned at Deakin University, Australia.

My research focused on the development of a biodegradable and biocompatible hydrogel based on rice straw derived biopolymer for agricultural and biomedical applications. It gives me immense satisfaction to believe that my chosen research study has the potential to transform waste into wealth – a low cost agricultural residue into a value added natural biodegradable polymer that has huge potential in various fields.

Australians are warm people

The memory of my first day in Australia is still fresh in my mind. While I was nervous about travelling alone to a foreign country, the thrill of immersing myself in a new culture, meeting diverse people and learning new things kept me excited. Deakin University was supportive for arranging my travel and airport pickup, so one less thing to worry about. I spent my first week in Deakin hostels on campus before finding more affordable accommodation nearby. Every day I learnt new skills such as opening a bank account, figuring out local transportation, trying new recipes and managing my expenses.

In the early days, grocery shopping was overwhelming; I often ended up filling the cart with random stuff and no clue for dinner. Oftentimes, seeing me struggle, my friends would treat me to the food they prepared. Eventually, I started cooking independently. That made me miss the flavours of home, but it also taught me a new skill for life time. I learnt time management and maintaining work life balance.

The support from everyone — housemates, lab colleagues, supervisors and even strangers —was remarkable. One memorable moment was while walking to the University, lost in my thoughts planning the day ahead, I heard a cheerful voice: “Hello, how are you doing today?” I turned to see a lovely old lady walking with her puppy on the street. This kind gesture instantly lifted my mood and I couldn’t help but smile on my entire way to the varsity.

Though I encountered some challenges and setbacks, good friends helped sail through tough times. I created lasting memories and made friends for a lifetime, who celebrate my achievements as their own, believe in me and continuously inspire me to achieve more.

Throughout my time in Australia, I always felt safe, even during late-night walks after finishing work in the lab.

I grew to admire the mesmerising beauty of the sky as it shifted hues, the breathtaking sunsets at the beach, the sound of waves and the serene wonder of stargazing under the night sky.

When it comes to the academic side of Australia, studying experience was a bit relaxed compared to the fast-paced culture in India. Labs remain closed after working hours and on weekends unless you have permission for working out of hours. Indian workplaces offer more personal experience which is rewarding in their own right. India teaches you to work hard which accelerates your professional growth. The learning environment in Australia is more flexible, collaborative with less formal and traditional hierarchy.

Living here, I also bagged the Rex Williamson Prize for my research project, which is a significant milestone for me. It brought my research project into the spotlight which unveiled a wealth of exciting opportunities. On a personal level, it boosted my confidence and self-esteem. It offered a sense of validation for my efforts and empowered me to seek and embrace new opportunities with assurance.

(This letter is part of a series by The Indian Express where we bring to you the experiences of students at different foreign universities. From scholarships and loans to food and cultural experiences — students tell us how life is different in those countries and things they are learning other than academics)