Deciding to study in Australia
Before coming to Australia, I had already built professional experience as an Engineer and Project Manager.
I chose Australia because I wanted to keep growing, personally and professionally, and to gain an international perspective for my career. I was also looking for a challenge, including studying in a different language.
Australia also stood out for its reputation for high-quality education, practical learning and strong support for international students.
Studying in the Northern Territory
Studying in the Northern Territory (NT) has been genuinely special because it is welcoming and community focused. I completed my Master of Engineering (Electrical and Electronics) at Charles Darwin University (CDU), where lecturers are approachable, and you feel supported and confident in your studies.
I also enjoyed studying in a truly multicultural environment, where I met people from many different countries and learned from their perspectives. Living in the Territory also gave me the chance to understand more about Indigenous Australian culture, which added a deeper meaning to my experience in Australia.
Overall, studying in the NT helped me grow as a student and as a person. It also opened doors to meaningful professional connections and opportunities.
Resources and support
The most helpful support for me has been the combination of CDU’s academic and student services. These helped me stay on track academically, while also preparing for career opportunities.
The Careers Centre helped me improve my resume, prepare for interviews, and understand pathways into industry. Being involved in student groups also made a big difference, both socially and professionally.
Making new friends
I made new friends by being open and saying yes to small opportunities—introducing myself in class, joining student activities and attending campus events. I also tried to stay open to collaborating and volunteering, which helped me meet people with shared interests.
Darwin is friendly and welcoming. Once you take the first step, it becomes easier to build genuine friendships. I also made an effort to get to know people outside of my own usual circle of friends. Darwin also has a strong community spirit, and I really enjoyed going to different cultural festivals and events.
A typical weekend in Darwin
My favourite way to spend a weekend in Darwin is getting outdoors. I love walking along the Waterfront, and visiting the Mindil Beach Sunset Market is always a highlight—the food, the energy, and the vibrant tropical environment make it a must.
For nature and views, I often go to East Point to watch the amazing sunsets, and it’s also one of my favourite spots for fishing. I also enjoy long walks at Casuarina Beach, and when I’m feeling more active, I head to the Lee Point Trails for mountain biking.
Mandorah Jetty and Wagait Beach are also great for fishing and a peaceful coastal escape. I also enjoy exploring places outside of Darwin, like Berry Springs, Lake Bennett, and Litchfield National Park.
Advice for new students
My advice is to use the support available and ask questions early—you don’t have to figure everything out alone. Be proactive, stay open to new experiences, and say yes to opportunities that help you grow—both academically and professionally.
I joined the Engineering Student Society (ESS) at CDU and volunteered for a year and a half, starting as Treasurer and later becoming President. That experience helped me build leadership skills and gave me the chance to collaborate with different groups within and beyond the University, including the professional peak body Engineers Australia.
At the same time, I volunteered with Engineers Australia as a Student Ambassador, where I supported new engineering students, shared useful information, and took part in events that allowed me to connect and network with industry professionals.
Keeping an open mind, volunteering, and building strong networks made a real difference. It even opened doors to opportunities such as internships with Hitachi Energy and Power and Water, where I now work in a full-time position.
As a result of my efforts, I was proud to be selected as a finalist for Student of the Year in the Northern Territory. It reinforced for me that when you stay proactive and committed, your work can create real opportunities and meaningful recognition.
