  {"id":23454,"date":"2024-01-15T12:42:00","date_gmt":"2024-01-15T04:42:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/?post_type=advice&#038;p=23454"},"modified":"2025-12-10T14:01:39","modified_gmt":"2025-12-10T06:01:39","slug":"5-ways-to-make-the-most-of-your-international-study-experience","status":"publish","type":"advice","link":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/advice\/5-ways-to-make-the-most-of-your-international-study-experience\/","title":{"rendered":"5 ways to make the most of your international study experience\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>There are plenty of incredible experiences for international students in Western Australia. You\u2019ll be able to make new friends while engaging with a unique culture, all while being able to enjoy some of the world\u2019s most beautiful landscapes. Plus, at Curtin, you\u2019ll be studying at a university that\u2019s ranked in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/about\/reputation-rankings\/#:~:text=Curtin%20is%20ranked%20in%20the,scores%20and%20a%20factored%20calculation.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">top 1 per cent of universities worldwide<\/a>, according to the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2025.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are our five top tips to make the most of all that Western Australia has to offer while you study.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Create a bucket list&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Creating a bucket list of Western Australian experiences is a fantastic way to organise your goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, perhaps there are certain attractions you want to explore while in Western Australia. Maybe you\u2019re eager to swim in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef or visit The Pinnacles, breathtaking natural limestone structures that were formed 20,000\u201330,000 years ago.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1536\" data-id=\"23465\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-pinnacles-experience-article-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-23465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-pinnacles-experience-article-scaled.jpeg 2048w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-pinnacles-experience-article-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-pinnacles-experience-article-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1365\" data-id=\"23466\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-beac-experience-article-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-23466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-beac-experience-article-scaled.jpeg 2048w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-beac-experience-article-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-beac-experience-article-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Or, you may be interested in attending events unique to Western Australia. One example is EverNow, a celebration of Aboriginal culture, grounded in the knowledge of the Noongar peoples, the traditional owners of the lands. The Western Australian capital, Perth (Boorloo), also plays host to several events throughout the year, such as Perth Festival. You can find a full list of events and unique experiences via the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernaustralia.com\/au\/things-to-do\/events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tourism Western Australia website<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whatever they may be, take the time to write down your goals; this will help you prioritise and decide how to allocate your time. Once you\u2019re clear on what it is you most want to experience, you can make travel arrangements and organise logistics with the friends who might be accompanying you. This means you can start ticking off some of those items on your Australia bucket list.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Get out of your comfort zone&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>Getting out of your comfort zone is one of the most rewarding things you can do while studying in Western Australia. It\u2019s one of the biggest steps in growing as a person, as it opens you up to making new friends and creating memories that will last a lifetime.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While you\u2019re studying at Curtin, don\u2019t forget to check out the university\u2019s various clubs and societies. Joining in is a great way to meet people who have similar interests to you. By attending events like trivia and games nights, and saying \u201cyes\u201d to new opportunities, you can build your confidence and embrace the exciting social events on offer in Western Australia. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/students\/experience\/clubs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Explore Curtin\u2019s diverse clubs and societies here<\/a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1366\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-experience-article-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-23464\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-experience-article-scaled.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-experience-article-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-experience-article-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Explore your study destination<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Western Australia is known and loved for its natural beauty, which makes it an attractive place to study.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the city of Perth, you\u2019ll find plenty of interesting things to see and do. Public parks, museums and galleries, bars and breweries, libraries and stadiums \u2013 the city has it all. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.destinationperth.com.au\/destination\/northbridge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Northbridge<\/a> in particular is an entertainment hub, with a thriving food and drink scene, quirky shops and fun activities, from walking tours to escape rooms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eager to venture out of the city? Take a well-deserved break from your studies by swimming in the crystal clear waters around destinations like Margaret River, Albany and Exmouth. If you\u2019d like to meet some local wildlife, you can catch a ferry from Fremantle to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rottnestisland.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rottnest Island (Wadjemup)<\/a> and meet a quokka. Or if you\u2019d like to burn off some extra energy, you can take a hike at <a href=\"https:\/\/exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au\/park\/karijini-national-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Karijini National Park<\/a>. There are countless possibilities to explore within Western Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more inspiration, check out Visit Perth\u2019s regularly updated roundup of <a href=\"https:\/\/visitperth.com\/see-and-do\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">tourist attractions<\/a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Embrace the culture<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-diverse-experience-article-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-23470\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-diverse-experience-article-2.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-diverse-experience-article-2-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best things about studying in Western Australia is having the chance to embrace the state\u2019s unique culture.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thanks in large part to its friendly and welcoming locals, Western Australia is a hot spot for tourists from around the world, particularly Asia. Its position on the west coast of Australia makes the capital, Perth, a hub for those visiting from nations like Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not just the city\u2019s visitors that are culturally diverse \u2013 its locals are, too! According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/abs.gov.au\/census\/find-census-data\/quickstats\/2021\/5GPER\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2021 Census<\/a>, more than 40 per cent of Greater Perth\u2019s population was born overseas, making the city a melting pot of cultures from around the globe.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cultural diversity is also at the heart of Curtin. Our student community is highly diverse, with roughly one-quarter of students coming from overseas. This means that, as an international student, you\u2019ll have plenty of peers around you who understand your circumstances.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only will these experiences enrich your study abroad but they will also help you better understand Australian history and the country as a whole.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Seek support when you need it&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes, making the most of your international study experience requires a little extra help. Perhaps you need a bit of help improving your academic status, adjusting to life in Western Australia or making career-related decisions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In these circumstances, remember to use the support resources around you. By seeking out these services and getting professional guidance, you\u2019ll not only gain a sense of direction but invaluable peace of mind moving forward. You can then spend more time and energy enjoying your university experience to the fullest.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1365\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-student-experience-study-article-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-23463\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-student-experience-study-article-scaled.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-student-experience-study-article-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-student-experience-study-article-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>At Curtin, there are support services to address every aspect of the international student experience. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/students\/study-support\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">study support resources<\/a> can aid you in improving your skills, achieving better academic results and leveraging Curtin\u2019s study facilities. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/students\/personal-support\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">personal support resources<\/a> can assist with queries on a range of topics, from mental health to career advice to disability support.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With the help of these five tips, you\u2019re sure to optimise your international study experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><sup><strong><em>Disclaimer<\/em><\/strong><br><em>This post is correct as of 27 May 2024, but is subject to change by Âé¶¹Ö±²¥ (in its sole discretion). Âé¶¹Ö±²¥ may change the content, and its location or blog, post, and web address. This post contains general information only. Users should consider how it applies to their personal circumstances and seek specific advice. This blog, post, and our website are not intended as, and shall not be construed as legal, financial, tax, medical, health, or any other professional advice.<\/em><br><em>\u00a9 Âé¶¹Ö±²¥ 202<\/em>5.<\/sup><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>There are plenty of incredible experiences for international students in Western Australia. You\u2019ll be able [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4451,"featured_media":23462,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_oasis_is_in_workflow":0,"_oasis_original":0,"_oasis_task_priority":"2normal","_relevanssi_hide_post":"","_relevanssi_hide_content":"","_relevanssi_pin_for_all":"","_relevanssi_pin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_unpin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_include_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_exclude_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_no_append":"","_relevanssi_related_not_related":"","_relevanssi_related_posts":"8453,7166,4587,8425,5464,6377","_relevanssi_noindex_reason":"","wds_primary_category":3,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,114,87],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-23454","advice","type-advice","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-campus-and-global-community","category-international-students","category-perth-campus"],"acf":{"post_options":{"":null,"additional_content":{"title":"","content":"","image":false},"related_courses":[{"title":"","qualification":"","link":"","description":"","faculty":""}],"credits":{"author":"","photographer":"","media":false},"display_author":true,"banner":{"image":false}},"post_components":false},"featured_image":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/INT-banner-image-study-experience-1000x500.jpg","author_meta":{"first_name":"Curtin","last_name":"University","display_name":"Âé¶¹Ö±²¥"},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/advice\/23454","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/advice"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/advice"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4451"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/advice\/23454\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23462"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23454"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23454"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23454"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}