I’m Jana, a Study Abroad student from Berlin, Germany majoring in Mechanical Engineering and let me tell you, whoever chooses UTS and Sydney for an Exchange won’t get disappointed.
When I started applying for a semester Abroad, I got super excited to see, that Sydney was on the list of University’s where I could do my exchange. Imagining living close to the iconic beaches like Bondi and being able to see the amazing architecture with the Opera House for half a year felt like a dream. Which actually came true. And all this while broaden your horizons, gaining a global perspective and experience a new culture.
As a Mechanical Engineering student, UTS is the perfect choice since the university is very innovative and globally thinking oriented. I had the opportunity to work on projects which goal it was to solve real life problems happening in Australia and around the world. Something I really appreciated was the interactive learning style and that also cultural aspects were considered. Everyone I met in classes, whether student or professors, were super helpful and respectful. The university campus invites and motivates you to study but in the same time it’s such a nice place to hang out with friends, take a coffee break in the sun or to go for a short walk to the next park or harbor, since it is super central.
Student life in Sydney in general is very live, there is a lot happening all time. From street festivals to markets, pub crawls and exhibitions. The city in general is very international, which creates a very welcoming environment for international students. And you’ll meet a lot of like-minded people from all around the world, which was a very enriching and I’m happy to call them my friends. Everyone I met was always open to hang out and explore the city. The university also organizes many events for international students. At the beginning of the semester there is a series of events called ‘ActivateUTS’. I can recommend everyone participating in those. Not only you’ll meet people from all around the world but learn about Australian culture and the student life in Sydney. One goal of mine in Australia was learning how to surf. So, my first surf experience ever actually was with ‘ActivateUTS’. It was my first, but not my last time surfing here.
Sydney was a welcoming change, from Berlin. The city combines culture with nature. It has a thriving arts and cultural scene but if you ever want an escape from city life, just hop on the next train or bus and discover the coast or mountains close by. People here are super active and healthy and the amount of coastal walk you can do is almost too much for just a few months. I think my favorite thing to do here, was my weekly run along the harbor to the Opera House. One more thought about this city I have to add, is that I always felt safe and welcomed. And don’t forget to travel a bit while being in Australia. This country thrives of beauty and cultural diversity.
Studying abroad in Sydney is a life-changing experience that offers a world-class education, cultural diversity, natural beauty, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. So, if you're considering studying abroad, Sydney should undoubtedly be at the top of your list. The memories you will create here, will last a lifetime. UTS and the city became a new home for me within the last months. Thanks to all the people I met and who made this experience unforgettable.
Jana Krome
Spring 2023 Study Abroad student from Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin, Germany