I am a student from the School of Accounting at Inner Mongolia University of Finance and
Economics. Through the 2+2 international cooperation program, I am currently studying
Accounting at Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia. This experience of
studying and living abroad has greatly broadened my horizons and allowed me to grow both
academically and personally.
When I first arrived in Australia, everything felt new and a little challenging. The teaching style
at Swinburne is very different from what I was used to in China. The classes here are more
open and interactive. Lecturers encourage students to think critically, share ideas, and
engage in group discussions. At the beginning, I needed some time to adjust to the fully
English learning environment, but with the support of my teachers and classmates, I quickly
adapted. Now I can express my thoughts more confidently in class and work effectively with
others on group projects.
Through this experience, I have realized that accounting is much more than just dealing with
numbers. The courses at Swinburne often combine theory with real-world business cases,
helping students understand how accounting supports decision-making and business
operations. I’ve learned to view financial issues from a broader perspective and to think
about how numbers reflect strategy, management, and economic trends. This practical
learning approach has given me valuable insights that will benefit my future career.
Outside of class, life in Melbourne has been equally rewarding. It’s a vibrant and multicultural city where people from all over the world come together. I love exploring different parts of the city — visiting local markets, enjoying coffee with friends in cozy cafes, or taking the tram to the beach on weekends. The city’s beautiful environment and relaxed lifestyle have made me appreciate the balance between study and life.
Of course, studying abroad is not without challenges. In the beginning
, I experienced some homesickness and pressure from assignments, and it took time to get used to living independently. However, these challenges helped me grow stronger. I’ve learned how to manage my time effectively, take care of myself, and stay positive even when things get difficult. This process has made me more independent, resilient, and confident.
Looking back, my experience at Swinburne University of Technology has been truly
meaningful. It has not only enhanced my professional knowledge but also taught me valuable
life skills that I could never learn from textbooks. I feel grateful for this opportunity to study
in such a diverse and inspiring environment. The experience has shaped my perspective on
the world and prepared me for future challenges in both my career and my life.
I believe this journey of studying abroad will remain one of the most memorable and valuable
chapters of my life. It has given me knowledge, confidence, and a broader vision of what I
want to achieve in the future — and for that, I am deeply thankful.
