Written by Kirra Web
Last semester I had the privilege of studying abroad in Malta as a visiting student. What was initially a spontaneous decision became a life-changing experience.
Finding the Right Place
The easiest option for international study is as an exchange student. This requires an established partnership between an overseas university and Charles Sturt. Some courses, such as mine, aren’t available through any of the partnered universities. Instead, I searched for a university that taught the equivalent of my course, accepted visiting students and ran classes in English. I was sold when I found the University of Malta.
Student Life
Malta is a small island nation lying south of Italy in the Mediterranean Sea. I didn’t know much about Malta before arriving but had plenty of time to discover all of the hidden gems that the island has to offer. The university’s lecture structures took some getting used to but I really enjoyed them, especially the option to take a class learning the Maltese language. I was also able to complete work experience through the University Degree Plus program on top of professional placement at the National Library of Malta. Both opportunities gave me diverse insights into career paths in information science.
Furry Friends
The best part of campus was definitely the abundance of cats. They were incredibly affectionate and adored a good head scratch. Sometimes they’d even take naps in the library or classrooms.
Accommadation
While the student accommodation was basic, it was conveniently located right next to campus which made it much easier to get to those early morning classes. The study spaces, pool and free gym were handy amenities. Some of my favourite times were hanging out in one of the communal kitchens, playing card games and sharing traditional foods from home (you best believe I made everyone try Vegemite and fairy bread).
So Much to Do
Moving to another country by myself was initially daunting, but the student organisations held many inclusive events including cultural and history tours, movie nights, and beach parties. For Halloween we played laser tag in an abandoned navel prison. There were also lots of clubs to meet people including sports teams, hiking, music and crafts. I was so busy having fun and engaging in local activities that I didn’t really have time to feel homesick.
Exploring Together
If I felt bored or lonely, a message in the student exchange group chat would lead to exploration of a historical site, a study session by the beach or a kitchen hangout. There were always people keen to join and I made lifelong friends. We even managed to fit in a few weekend trips to mainland Europe!
This experience, the friends and memories I’ve made, are irreplaceable. I would recommend to everyone, whether it’s on exchange, as a visiting student, or for an international work placement, take the chance to study abroad.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
