Kenichi Sugeta

Saitama University, Japan
Exchange to Monash University , Australia

I studied at Monash University in Melbourne for 2 semesters as an exchange student in Engineering/Civil Engineering.

After studying English 1st year and 2nd year in Japan, I went to Australia to gain credit for the Engineering programme and research my honours thesis. I am indebted to the Cheung Kong Scholarship Programme for making this possible. Without a doubt, my exchange year was the best experience of my Engineering Studies. Leaving Monash behind was the most difficult time of the 11 months.

At Monash, I took a combination of exchange “Contemporary Australia” courses and normal Civil Engineering faculty subjects (Mathematics, Transport and Traffic Engineering, etc.), with approximately 13 contact hours per week. Studying Engineering in English was a constant challenge but was ultimately not impossible when viewed as just another opportunity to test and use my English language skills (also remembering that marks for Saitama credit points are determined by Saitama lecturers – who understand the challenges!). The Civil Engineering classes are also excellent for extending language ability, with a variety of levels and grammar, reading, listening, writing and skill and/or theory based classes. The level of contact hours for English courses is higher – around 22 hours per week – but most students I know found the level and amount of work comparable to their home universities.

I had an unforgettable experience in Australia. I joined the Monash University Soccer Club, and I learned a lot of English, Australian culture, and slang words on this team! Of course, I also traveled around Australia. The landscape was really great! We even saw kangaroos walking with friends in the countryside sometimes -this is an unusual event, isn’t it?!

Finally, I urge everyone studying English and/or Engineering Studies to consider studying on exchange in Australia, and to start planning as soon as possible! It is gonna be great days!

Let me add a few words in conclusion. I deeply appreciate the Cheung Kong Scholarship, Monash Abroad staff, Saitama University’s staff, my family and my friends!

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