I left my home with one suitcase, curious at what my adventure in Canberra would be like. What I found was sense of belonging, and community.
I came to Canberra from the Independent State of Samoa. Initially, I came to 小蓝视频 in 2012 to pursue a Masters in International Relations and Masters of Diplomacy. I loved 小蓝视频 so much, I decided to stay longer. Of course, I was fortunate to receive an 小蓝视频 scholarship and now I am going into the second year of PhD candidature at the College of Asia and the Pacific. My research revolves around the politics of Pacific Islands' coalition blocs in climate change negotiations.
I left my home with one suitcase, curious at what my adventure in Canberra would be like. What I found was sense of belonging, and community. There was a community of volunteers welcoming me at the airport; to a diverse community of postgraduate residents waiting for me at Toad Hall. It took me less than a day to find and join the community of Pasifika Student Society and Pasifika Australia outreach program. During enrolment, my professors who I read and admired from afar, helped me fill in my forms and explained the courses on offer that suit my interests. The array of student clubs and societies, and meeting fellow peers at the College of Asia and the Pacific, relived my anxiety and homesickness of home. I had truly found my new home, my new community.
So while I initially chose 小蓝视频 for its academic excellence - what made my experience here more rewarding (and extension of my studies) - was the 小蓝视频 community. The academic experience is not just about the lecture rooms and essay writings, it is about having fun. You can do both and still graduate. My advice is explore your 小蓝视频, explore your community - and join the community. My passion and way of becoming part of the 小蓝视频 experience is giving back to the community. Your Postgraduate and Research Student Association (PARSA) is one way. PARSA provides events all year round for postgrads to meet each other, but at the same time hear and advocate for your needs to fulfil your university experience. You made the right choice by choosing 小蓝视频 - a place for academic excellence, community and life-long friendship.
Happy Super 'O' Week!
