Studying, Exploring, Belonging: My Time at UTS in Australia

Nicole Waisman Levy

Autumn 2025 Study Abroad student from Universidad Iberoamericana Ciudad de Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico

Studying at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) has been one of the most meaningful experiences and opportunities of my academic journey. From the first day I arrived on campus, I felt a lot of opportunity. UTS is a place where innovation, creativity, and cultural diversity come together. My professors encouraged open-minded thinking and gave us space to question and explore. What I appreciated the most was how international the classroom felt. My classmates came from many different countries, and each discussion became more interesting because of our different backgrounds, I didn't feel like I was the only international or new student; I felt accompanied.

Living in Sydney has also been an unforgettable experience. The city is full of energy and life. Every weekend, I tried to visit new neighborhoods, sometimes walking around Barangaroo or relaxing at Bondi Beach. I really enjoy the rhythm of the city; it moves quickly during the day, but still feels open and friendly. One thing that surprised me was how multicultural Sydney is. Different cultures, foods, and languages are part of daily life here. It’s a place where I felt free to be myself in something bigger.

Traveling around Australia made this experience even more special. I went hiking in the Blue Mountains, learned how to surf in Byron Bay, went Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, and went to Melbourne for a fun weekend. Every trip helped me learn more about Australia’s nature and history. I had so many amazing moments.

Looking back, my time in Australia has changed me in many ways. It taught me how to be more curious, more open to change, and more confident in myself. It showed me the value of stepping outside of my comfort zone and reminded me that the world is much bigger and more beautiful than I imagined.