Would you travel to the other side of the world to pursue your education? International student Prachi Tyagi explains why she made the move and shares her tips for adjusting to a whole new culture.
It’s not every day you move to a country you have never visited to study. Prachi Tyagi is a determined young woman focused on achieving a successful personal brand, when it came to selecting a school for her post graduate studies, reputation and global ranking were stronger drivers than familiarity. Despite initial reservations about the move to Melbourne and concerns about adjusting to a new environment, Prachi’s family have been supportive of the decision to study on the other side of the world.
"My dad is my inspiration, I could not have got here without him. He’s a single dad and has always encouraged my siblings and I to pursue our careers and be financially independent" says an appreciative Tyagi. "There was some resistance to being so far away, but everybody wanted me to get the best possible masters degree, and in the end the choice was mine. Now they are just looking forward to coming down for the graduation!"
The Melbourne winter came as a surprise on Prachi’s arrival from Delhi, but once she mastered the art of layering, the cold winds were unable to stifle the excitement of moving beyond her comfort zone and broadening her understanding of what's going on in the world.
I have met so many kinds of people from all over the world. It has been a great experience. Prachi Tyagi
Getting involved in campus life, sparked a submission for the Melbourne Ideas program, an annual challenge-based program, designed to encourage ideas and solutions. Working with classmate Samantha Hargreaves, Prachi pitched a network highlighting personal stories, dreams, and the favourite memories of students at the university. The idea was nurtured during the competition and as finalists, they receive one-on-one coaching. Humansofunimelb now has more than 2000 followers.
Pushing boundaries and getting involved is important for Prachi, she takes every opportunity to stretch her skills and grow her experience. Her proactive approach has her making connections which have developed into internships, Prachi is currently interning at Catch Group.
My profile as a University of Melbourne student helps me find internships. Especially on LinkedIn, where connecting with people has been of a great help. Prachi Tyagi
Prachi Tyagi is studying a Master of Marketing Communications and is a SAMM writer for the Melbourne University’s Students’ Association of Management. She is a member of the Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA) and Australian Marketing Institution (AMI).
Prachi’s advice for new international students?
- Embrace the diversity, this city has a space for all kinds of people.
- Be open to new things and new ideas.
- You need to be proactive and to get involved.