Aishwarya SHRIDHAR

Student of Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi, India
Exchange to La Trobe University, Australia

When I was first informed that I was selected for the exchange programme to Melbourne, I was very excited, but also very nervous. After all, it was a big decision - six months away from home in a country so far away. Not to mention the fact that it was an unconventional step to take, a detour that would mean delaying my postgraduate studies. But now I cannot think of a better choice to have made for myself. Being thrust into a different world altogether has been an exhilarating and enriching experience for me. From the first time I set foot in Melbourne, it was strange, because all my anxiety dissipated and I felt right at home. Whether it was the friendly staff at La Trobe University, or the multicultural and multi-ethnic population of the city, or even the warm and welcoming public service providers, it was as if everyone wanted to make me feel comfortable.

Melbourne is a gorgeous city, its abundant natural beauty coupled with stunning man-made architecture, monuments, and buildings, make it a visual treat. Its cultural offerings are vast and diverse, the gritty street art on Brunswick St, the buskers in the CBD, and the number of innovative exhibitions, are some of the things that bring Melbourne alive. To be a part of this vibrant lifestyle was an absolute joy.

My time at La Trobe University was equally fascinating while being educational. The Bundoora campus is as breath-taking as it is large, and will truly inspire awe in one and all. As a student studying subjects in Anthropology, I was especially lucky, as I got to observe this invigorating environment closely. Our projects involved plenty of on-field work and discussions in tutorials were very in-depth, thus combining the best of practical skill with theoretical knowledge. Studying Anthropology was definitely a fine choice for me as it gave me a much more nuanced view of the new world I was now a part of. The fewer contact hours with professors as compared to university in India certainly had no impact on how much I learned. Instead, I became much more invested in reading and engaging in self-study.

Another important aspect of my time in Melbourne was the opportunity to work. As a kitchen hand at a restaurant, I found myself attaining a strong work ethic alongside financial independence. It was extremely satisfying to reap the rewards of my own work, and serving people with a smile came so easily to me.

I also managed to explore the Great Ocean Road as well as the lovely city of Sydney during my time in Australia. These travel experiences were fantastic and formed some of the best moments of my exchange adventure. But most importantly, the wonderful friends I made while in Melbourne will always be an important part of my life. Their unconditional compassion and affection make me believe that no matter where I go, I will always have a home.

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