Beatrice Teng Jia En - Malaysia, 1 February, 2024
I’ve always wanted to come to Australia to study. I’ve heard a lot about the lovely scenery, the friendly people, and the nice weather. I love sunshine and Brisbane is in Queensland also known as the Sunshine State, so it’s the perfect place for me.
Another reason is that QUT is known for being the best in media and communications in Australia and these rankings made a huge impact on my choice. I’m from Malaysia and was studying at Taylor’s University who also has a partnership with QUT, so it was an easy transition. In my second year I liked to transfer to do the rest of my studies overseas and QUT was perfect for me. I love the focus on practical learning mixed in with theory which gives you a great insight to the industry and how it all works.
My QUT journey
My QUT study journey has been incredibly insightful, adventurous and happy. The academic experience was truly eye-opening, providing me with valuable insights and a deep understanding of my field of study. Beyond the classroom, the journey was adventurous, marked by a willingness to explore new opportunities and embrace challenges, both academically and personally. Overall, the positive and supportive environment at QUT, coupled with meaningful connections with peers and professors, contributed to a happy and fulfilling experience. The combination of academic growth, a spirit of adventure, and a sense of joy has made my time at QUT truly memorable.
I’ve always liked to study accounting but during the years of Covid I changed my focus. The reason was that I decided to follow my heart, my personality and came to realise that I love to communicate and talk to people (express opinions and thoughts as well as sharing). During high school I loved to communicate and talk to people and organise events, so a degree in public relations, advertising and communication sounded like the perfect fit for me. I love to share stories with my friends and brainstorm ideas and topics. I think I have a good eye for details and knowing what people like to read and hear, so I think it’s well suited for me.
The highlights so far have been becoming an international ambassador and participating in the photo and video shoot. It was a fun experience, and I met a lot of new friends. I was also the marketing intern for QUT's Faculty of Health. This was very interesting as I got to help them with a variety of communication tasks such as writing blog stories, assisting at Open Day, leading faculty tours for high school students and helping with digital marketing promotion.
I love my lecturers and tutors and I enjoy all the units I’m studying. The teachers make it interesting and fun so it’s always great to come to lectures. In class, I particularly appreciate the engaging discussions and interactive learning environment. The opportunity to actively participate, ask questions, and share ideas fosters a dynamic atmosphere that enhances my understanding of the subject matter. This direct interaction brings the subject matter to life, providing a deeper understanding through real-time exchanges of ideas. I appreciate the collaborative nature of group activities, as they not only enhance my comprehension but also expose me to diverse perspectives. The classroom environment creates a sense of shared learning, making the educational experience more stimulating and enjoyable.
Real world experience
My practical learning and internships have been the most useful things I’ve done, and I can see how this will benefit my future career. Working whilst studying is also a great thing to do to get an insight into how a workplace operates and test the skills you’ve learnt. I got a part-time job as a student career advisor by searching the QUT Uni Hub. In that role I created a module giving career advice to students. This was a great experience that I truly enjoyed. My other job in the Faculty of Health was a paid internship which helped me gain some real-world experience.
During my degree I had a few real-world scenario assessments which gave me great knowledge about the real-world. One was my final year capstone project which was to create a PR campaign for Queensland Koala Society. While the project initially presented challenges, our team persevered and received invaluable feedback from the lecturer, proving pivotal in refining our approach. The constructive input guided us to make necessary adjustments, ensuring the project aligned with our client’s objectives. Through collaborative group discussions, we ensured alignment within the team, resulting in a positive outcome. The feedback not only contributed to the project's success but also deepened our understanding of the subject matter, creating a truly enriching learning experience for the entire team.
I have also enjoyed the industry speakers we have had for guest lecturers which always provides a great insight to the industry and various topics.
Living in Brisbane
Settling into a new country was hard at the start as everything is new and you don’t know anyone. People were very friendly, and I had great roommates that made me feel at home, so after a few weeks I felt more comfortable and could enjoy myself. People are so open and helpful, and I found it was easy to ask questions if I needed to. The weather is fantastic, I love the nature and greenery. I enjoy walking along the river as it’s very relaxing and calming after a busy day. I usually take the City Cat to uni and since it’s a ferry it avoids the traffic, and you get to class quicker, a big plus.
My favourite places in Brisbane are the city centre, New Farm Park and the Brisbane River. I love these places because of the beautiful nature scenery. You walk a lot in Brisbane which I’m not use to from home, but it’s good exercise if you sit all day at a desk.
I live in Scape student accommodation which I organised before I arrived in Brisbane. It’s very convenient and I can recommend this to other students. What I appreciate most about my student accommodation is the sense of security and the conducive environment it offers for both studying and relaxation. The safety measures in place, such as secure access and a supportive residential community, provide peace of mind. Moreover, the well-designed study spaces and quiet areas contribute to a focused academic atmosphere. The inclusive amenities, like communal kitchens and social spaces, foster a sense of camaraderie among residents, making it not just a place to live but a community where I can comfortably balance my academic and social life.
Student life
During my time at QUT, I found immense enjoyment in being part of the energetic student community. Joining AMPED (Advertising, Marketing, PR and Communications club) allowed me to attend networking events, fostering connections with peers and offering valuable insights into the industry. My experience in AMPED was fantastic, creating a strong sense of belonging and providing practical exposure to the field of advertising.
While I didn't engage in sports clubs, I delight in exploring Brisbane with friends, particularly through leisurely walks around the city. The tranquillity of Brisbane's parks makes them perfect for socialising. Beyond university, I cherish spending time with friends, discovering new places in Brisbane. The city's vibrant atmosphere, complemented by its parks and events, has truly made my time at QUT unforgettable.
My future plans
I have recently completed my degree, and I am in the process of applying for a graduate visa to extend my stay and work in Australia. I am enthusiastic about gaining practical experience in an Australian workplace, where I can apply and further develop the skills I acquired during my studies. My ultimate career goal is to secure a position in a performance marketing role, ideally within an advertising agency. I am eager to contribute my knowledge and creativity to dynamic marketing campaigns, leveraging my academic background and passion for the industry. This opportunity aligns with my aspirations, and I am excited about the prospect of making meaningful contributions to the field of performance marketing while immersing myself in the vibrant professional landscape of Australia.
QUT has helped me providing me with practical learning skills and real-world insights which are useful when you are trying to get into the workforce. My internships and part-time jobs all have given me great experience for my future job. In my final year I also had a WIL unit (Work Integrated Learning) which was very useful.
My advice to prospective students
I would encourage prospective students to actively engage in networking and campus activities. Joining clubs or societies aligned with your interests not only enhances your social life but also offers valuable opportunities for personal and professional development. Familiarise yourself with available resources, support services, and academic assistance from the beginning. Establishing effective time management habits early on is crucial for handling coursework efficiently. Additionally, don't hesitate to seek guidance from professors or academic advisors when needed—they are there to assist you. Reflecting on my own experience, I wish I had known the importance of finding a balance between academics and personal life from the start. Achieving this equilibrium early on can contribute to a more rewarding and successful university journey.
