Sebastian TATTAM

Student of The University of Sydney, Australia
Exchange to Fudan University, China

My Semester-long Exchange from The University of Sydney to Shanghai's Fudan University was an absolutely pivotal turning point in my life, without which I would not be the person I am today. While every exchange experience would be life-changing and unforgettable, I believe that undertaking an exchange to an Asian destination adds an extra dimension to an overseas study experience. This fast developing region, right on Australia's doorstep, is vastly diverse and soon becoming the economic centre of the world. As an Australian student, the opportunity to participate in such a broad and deep engagement with our region has helped me to appreciate the importance of ties between Australia and our Asian neighbours, while also giving me the experience of a lifetime.

Living in China was a challenge. I faced communication barriers every day, struggled to deal with internet blocks, grew tired of Chinese cuisine and was almost run over countless times before I learnt that traffic lights in China are merely suggestions of when cars should stop, rather than being enforceable by law. But these challenges are all part of the Asian experience, and by accepting them, facing them and then overcoming them by learning to live like a local, I grew into a more understanding and experienced person.

At University in Shanghai I was able to study a diverse range of subjects that aren't available to me in Sydney, including Chinese taxation and fiscal policy, social security systems and industrial policy, as well as mandarin language. These subjects gave me a great insight into China, which combined with my everyday life experiences, helped to boost my understanding of this country that is soon becoming one of the most important and influential in the world.

The assistance of the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Award allowed me to really make the most of my time in Shanghai. The financial backing allowed me to travel to many different parts of China, including Chengdu, Beijing and Kunming to name a few, as well as undertake extra studies in Chinese language which greatly assisted in my development. I would like to sincerely thank the Cheung Kong Group and the Australian Government for their funding for these scholarships, and I hope it encourages many more students from both Australia and Asia to undertake exchange programs as they are absolutely life changing and unforgettable experiences.

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