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Last year, Alex, a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management student at the University of Newcastle, took his studies global with a short-term program at UCLA in Los Angeles, California for 6 weeks.
Now back at uni in Australia, he’s carrying more than just elective credits. His overseas experiences transformed how he studies, boosted his confidence, and left him with lifelong friendships and a much bigger sense of what’s possible.
“Being in an unfamiliar place on the other side of the world really pushed me. It helped me grow, and that growth gave me the confidence to take on things I wouldn’t have considered before.”
Credit Where It Counts
The program counted towards his degree, with Alex using one elective for each course he took at UCLA. He explored storytelling through ‘Introduction to Screenwriting’ and took a deep dive into space with ‘Solar Systems and Planets’, the latter linking directly to his environmental science major.
“Some of the content, especially the planetary science course, actually connected back to my degree. It was eye-opening.”
But it wasn’t just the content that left a mark.
“I built routines and study habits over there that I’ve stuck with back here.”
Real Skills, Real Confidence
Living and learning overseas meant navigating unfamiliar cities, adapting to new environments, and collaborating with students from around the world. It was a crash course in real-world skills
“My communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills definitely improved. Being in a new place and suddenly part of a team builds those skills fast.”
He says the change in how he approaches group work and class discussions has been huge.
“I developed a strong academic focus during those programs, and I’ve carried that through since coming home.”
Friends, Perspective and Future Plans
One of the best parts? The people.
“I made great connections with like-minded people including other students from all over Australia who were also studying at UCLA. That was honestly the best part.”
The experience also opened his eyes to global issues and career possibilities he hadn’t considered before.
“I’m more aware of global events now and more interested in how things happening around the world connect to what I’m studying.”
Alex’s Advice?
If you’re thinking about studying overseas, he says don’t hesitate:
“The personal growth you get is huge. It pushes you outside your comfort zone, and gives you a new outlook – not just on uni, but on life.”
Ready to take the leap like Alex?
Explore our upcoming programs and see where study abroad can take you. Learn more and apply now.
