Bucket-list experiences and a broader global perspective

In addition to exploring the world, it was also time of immense personal growth and professional development for Sophia, who is a fourth-year Law and Commerce (Finance) student at The Australian National University (ANU).

In addition to exploring the world, it was also time of immense personal growth and professional development for Sophia, who is a fourth-year Law and Commerce (Finance) student at The Australian National University (ANU).

“Studying abroad in Spain and China exposed me to new ways of thinking and living, challenging me to adapt quickly, embrace cultural differences, and remain curious,” she says.

“I returned with a deep appreciation for the personal growth that comes from stepping outside my comfort zone, experiencing culture shocks, and engaging with diverse educational settings.”

Sparked by an interest that began with her high school Spanish studies and motivated to move beyond the classroom to experience the culture firsthand, Sophia completed a semester on exchange in Madrid.

“The highlight was undoubtedly the people I met and the collective energy among fellow exchange students. There was a shared understanding that our time was limited, which created a strong sense of curiosity and willingness to explore,” she says.

Returning home with a thirst for travel and cultural exchange, Sophia was eager to immerse herself in a new environment.

“When the opportunity to study in China with the support of the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant and the ANU College of Business and Economics Kirby Student Experience Grant arose, I knew I couldn’t pass it up,” Sophia shares.

Although the short course Sophia undertook in Shanghai was just a month long, the new perspective she gained will last a lifetime.

“Spending time in China gave me a far more nuanced and grounded understanding of the country than I could have gained from textbooks or media alone. Engaging with local students, participating in cultural activities, and simply observing day-to-day life, helped me appreciate the complexity and diversity within Chinese society,” she says.

“I gained insight into how tradition and modernity coexist. Although I was studying in ‘global technology hub’, Shanghai, trips to ancient sites in cities like Beijing, or to the ‘Venice of China’, Suzhou, proved that cultural pride remains strong even amid rapid economic development.”

Studying abroad has proved valuable for Sophia’s future goals, helping to cement her career plans in commercial law – a pathway that perfectly combines her studies in law and commerce.

“My experiences sparked a genuine interest in international commercial law, as I witnessed firsthand how legal systems, business practices, and cultural norms intersect across borders,” says Sophia.

It has also led to new, global connections.

“I’ve built valuable and lasting academic and social networks, which continue to enrich my professional development. I exchanged social media details with various local students, fostering international friendships that broaden my cultural understanding,” Sophia shares.

“I learned from exceptional professors who had deep knowledge of and experience in local industries. They encouraged us to maintain contact and update them on our future achievements. This ongoing mentorship provides a meaningful link to overseas academic communities.”

Whether it’s a semester-long exchange or a short course, studying overseas is a life-changing experience that Sophia readily recommends to others.

“I’ve come back with a genuine curiosity about how people live, work, and solve problems in different parts of the world. Overall, I’ve evolved into someone more adaptable, globally minded, and open to new experiences than I was before I left,” she says.

Image credits: China landscapes: Sophie Hill; Sophie Hill: CBE/Tim Rendall.