A bit about me
My name is Frizel Jade Magsanay, and I’m from Manila, Philippines.
I am a person who wants to be different — so I chose to study abroad. It wasn’t the easiest and most comfortable choice, but I have grown so much as a person as a result.
I chose to study in Australia to step outside my comfort zone, push my limits, reach for something greater and become more than I thought possible, because I like to believe that the world is wide and so are the possibilities.
Work-life balance
Studying Accounting in Melbourne has been the most eye-opening experience of my life.
What I appreciated the most was the ability to maintain a balance between my studies and personal life. There’s enough time to study for lectures, assignments and exams, and work part-time. I also found that I have enough time to explore the city and experience life in this country.
So, while I was pursuing my degree, I’m happy I still didn’t miss out on life. In fact, my learning went beyond just academics as I was also gaining life skills, independence and new perspectives.
Diversity in Australia
The fact that Australia is culturally diverse is remarkable for me. I have had the chance to meet a lot of people from different backgrounds and different countries in this country. It’s like you’re travelling throughout the world while being here.
A typical weekend in Melbourne
Australia has an abundance of parks and natural reserves. An ideal weekend for me is spending time in a park with good company, enjoying a picnic, going for a walk or a run or simply relaxing on my own with a book and a cup of matcha.
Hot tip – public libraries are the best!
I have found public libraries in Australia to be incredibly helpful. There’s a lot of public libraries located both in the city and the suburbs. I appreciate their welcoming atmosphere and the wide range of services they offer, which include not just books, but also free internet access, study areas, meeting rooms and community events.
It truly reflects the country’s dedication to fostering learning, education and personal development.
Advice for new students
Be open to the opportunity as the opportunity is open for you. And by that I mean: this experience has so much to offer, but it is up to you to embrace it fully.
It is an enriching experience, so take the chance, and let it challenge you, let it change you, and let it shape you because the more you are open, the more you’ll gain from it.