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Esy Gracia TJU

Student of Parahyangan Catholic University, Indonesia
Exchange to the University of Notre Dame Australia, Australia

Ever since I was a kid I always knew that I really wanted to study abroad. I am blessed that in the end of my third year of study I was selected as a grantee of The Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards Scholarship to go through a semester in Australia. I studied at the University of Notre Dame Australia ("UNDA"), located in the beautiful port city of Fremantle, Perth, and lived with fellow students coming from all around the globe.

This journey of mine is a life changing one. I have not been able to decide which one is the best part, ticking off my bucket lists with my friends, growing in ways I have never foreseen, or being exposed to different culture in a heart-warming place where the beautiful sunset-by-the-beach and artistic cafes are only footsteps away.

The learning experience was also something special. I have to admit that it was not easy to adjust myself to the different grading systems and examinations, especially when I was taking four classes of four different major subjects. However, I felt very lucky to be able to enrich my knowledge by taking subjects that were not available at my home university and experienced mind-blowing lectures. I was also incredibly grateful to be in classes that were conducted by exceptional professors.

Moreover, I learned more about myself too. I found out that I am a good cook and can mingle with strangers. I learned that I could manage my studies well in an established institution in a developed country. I challenged myself and participated in activities I would not normally do, for instance riding extreme rides in amusement parks and dancing my heart out. I have proved to myself that possibilities are endless and with the right mentality, I can do so much more than I thought I could. The key is to pluck up my courage and have the determination to go beyond one's limit.

As I have experienced the growth and development brought by a semester of exchange, I am very keen to actualize my dream of taking my Master's degree abroad. Australia, without a doubt, is among the top of my list. I would love to go back to Western Australia as well as explore more of this lovable country. Thank you, Cheung Kong Group, Australian Government, UNDA and of course my home university, for letting this girl grow and make a difference when return home.

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