Darshan Shelat, a student pursuing Masters in IT and Systems at the University of Canberra shares his experience of what it is like to live and learn in Canberra.
Darshan Shelat, a student pursuing Masters in IT and Systems at the University of Canberra shares his experience of what it is like to live and learn in Canberra.
When did you decide to study abroad? What/Who motivated you?
I was running a photography business back home, and when Covid-19 hit my business went down with it. That’s when I decided to find my way back to my background in IT and take on further study.
I started searching good universities in India but the orthodox JEE based selection system, clubbed with reservation made it impossible for me get into a good university in the same state.
A few friends of mine were studying in Melbourne, LA and Toronto also advised me to take the leap internationally. So, rather than changing state, I decided to change country! I began some research on the best location to choose from and was in need of some support. When I started talking to IDP Education Agents, it helped direct my decision making.
What led you to shortlist Canberra as your study destination? And why UC?
Coming from West part of India, Gujarat , which is a dry state with diverse culture and peaceful surroundings, I always knew I would feel most comfortable in a similar place which is nice and quiet.
Coming to terms with that, I knew the biggest cities of Sydney and Melbourne were not for me. I came to know about bush capital of Australia, Canberra, while searching about Australian universities online.
My consultant IDP became fuel for me and pointed me towards the University of Canberra (UC). I also conducted some research of my own on UC’s postgraduate degree offerings and found out that they had strong employment rates compared to other universities. UC also provided strong Work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities for students, which lead to a higher chance for post study employment which was important to me.
I felt good about the decision and submitted an application to UC! It wasn’t too much later that I landed in Canberra at UC, complete with a scholarship.
How did you finance your education? Was it self-funded? Or did you avail of a scholarship? Or take an education loan? (elaborate on scholarship/loan)
The majority of my education was funded by my family and the remaining part was covered with a scholarship and an International return subsidy provided by UC. I was able to cover the remaining costs myself while working on-campus as an Student Ambassador and Student Services Officer at the student centre at the university
Tell us about your admission process. Were there any challenges? How did you overcome them? Did the University of Canberra help with the process?
The admission process was very smooth. I submitted all the requested documents and responded to queries raised by the admissions team without too much trouble.
UC’s onshore Indian representatives were a huge support to me throughout the first semester as I had to begin studies online due to COVID-19 lockdowns. The student centre and faculty of Science and Technology were also helpful in providing me advice on how to finalise my study-plan and timetable.
Tell us about your experience when you first arrived in Canberra. Was it easy to settle down? Did you face any difficulty? (elaborate on accommodation, local assistance from UC etc)
When I first arrived in Australia, I landed in Sydney. I was picked up by a friend and commenced the 3 hour commute to the capital. During the drive, I got a chance to witness blue water and clear, sunny skies as I came here in Summer.
It was easy to settle down in Canberra thanks to the support I was given from the Indian community. Likewise on campus I found it easy to settle in because UC’s wellbeing team helped me to get familiar with the campus. I became part of UC’s student mentor program and got a chance to make friends from different cultures and nationalities.
Studying and working at UC eased things for me, UC provided me with really good environment to evolve and be strong. I joined UC’s gym, which is on campus and very affordable and helpful for students. These things made my life very easy in Canberra.
How is the study experience different from India?
In terms of the education system, there is a very major difference. Student’s at UC needs to finalise their enrolment and time-table on their own, which is not the case it India. I’ve found there is no spoon feeding here, but that can be a benefit as it builds independence.
Another major shift was working in groups for assignments, which happens in almost every unit and played an important role in developing my team building and leadership skills. Although I previously enjoyed my own company, I became a person who believes in team spirit – plus, it was a great way to interact with classmates.
Getting credit towards Work Integrated Learning (WIL) feels more appreciated in the Australian education system. I can say it has slowly started evolving in Tier-1 universities in India. These are a few of the changes and challenges that I have observed so far.
What do you like most about Canberra? Also, elaborate on what you like most about studying at UC.
The one thing that comes to mind is “Crankshaft” when I hear the word Canberra. Apart from that, Canberra is a gem, with native bushland, waterfalls, botanic gardens to explore. The National Arboretum and Lake Burley Griffin are two of my favourite places. I also like Lake Tuggeranong in Canberra’s south, because when I first arrived in Canberra, I lived close-by. Molly and Pizza Gusto are my go-to places for eating and enjoying a night out. I also often swing by Belconnen Labour Club or Gelato Messina for the ice-cream after a Friday night dinner.
The best thing I love about UC is the openness of the campus, it is surrounded by nature and art. Food from all corners of the globe adds to the aroma and makes campus come alive. Indigenous art and sculptures from local and international artists around the campus bring the environment together.
UC also holds heaps of events in O-week and throughout the semester to increase student engagement. I have volunteered as a UC student mentor and at a campus consultancy event. It’s been a good way to meet people from different cultures and backgrounds. UC aces the game of diversity and provides jobs on campus for students from all backgrounds. This in particular is something that I would like to flaunt about UC.
Something is always happening on the campus, and it’s great to get involved. Students can access the library 24×7 with their student ID card, which is perfect for some quiet study-time. That’s where I go to the lose myself down a rabbit hole and get on top of study for my final assignments. The on campus gym and eGames Lab also keeps my boredom away.
What is your advice for students who are planning to study abroad?
If you are someone who prefers studying in a quiet and peaceful environment, and don’t mind kangaroos hopping around campus and being chased by rabbits then UC would be a great fit.
UC can help an individual change their lifestyle and mind. It’s not only about the education you get, but the chance to be near to nature and reinvent yourself.