My unforgettable first semester as a Master of Technology student

Hey there! I'm Tamim, and I want to take you on a journey through my very first semester as a Master of Technology student. Buckle up, because it's been a rollercoaster of excitement, challenges, and incredible experiences. If you're a future student looking for a realistic glimpse into what's in store, I've got you covered!

Arriving in Australia on February 19 was like stepping into a whole new world—literally, around 9,000 km away from home. I set my sights on Mount Helen, Ballarat, Victoria, where my campus was waiting to welcome me with open arms. And boy, was it worth the journey!

Let's be real; the start wasn't all smooth sailing. The education system here was quite different from what I was used to back in my home country. Adjusting took time, but with each challenge, I felt myself growing. Imagine being a new baby in a world full of intriguing possibilities. Everything was fresh and fascinating, and curiosity became my constant companion.

One big difference I noticed between the education here and in my country is how they handle assignments. In FedUni, I realized that assignments often need to be written in a very organized way. They want clear main points, ideas that make sense one after the other, and proof to back up what you're saying. The teachers want you to follow certain rules for how you set things up, like using the APA or Harvard style for citing sources. It's quite different from what I was used to, but it's actually pretty helpful.

Making friends from all around the globe was a highlight. It was like a cultural potluck. I even got to witness the vibrant Sri Lankan New Year celebrations on campus. And oh, Fed Fest! That was an absolute blast. The festivities, the fun, and the people—it all came together to create memories that I'll cherish forever.

Let's not forget the city itself – Ballarat, a beauty that stole my heart. Lake Wendouree became my refuge, a place where the reflection of the sky danced on the water's surface. And speaking of dancing, the festivities at Sovereign Hill, especially the Wonder Lights, were nothing short of enchanting. The people here are all friendly and warm. They guided me through moments of confusion, making me feel at home even when I was miles away.

Living in FedLiving accommodation on campus was another adventure. The university restaurant at Albert Court was a culinary journey. I tried cuisines from around the world, but the Mexican lamb, courtesy of the amazing cook Burnie, stole the show. More than just tasty food, it was the warmth and kindness that made each meal special.

There were moments of homesickness, of feeling lost, but friends were there, holding lanterns of hope to guide me back. The Living Learning Centre (LLC) in FedLiving became our haven for creating memories, playing games, and just being ourselves. Fun fact: I fell in love with chess here, thanks to some friendly competition.

My first exam period and waiting for results plagued me with nerves. I studied very hard and was determined to do well so when the results arrived, along with a commendation letter from the Dean, it was all worth it.

To the dreamers and seekers, this tale is not just mine; it’s for you. Know that starting this journey isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, but every challenge was a stepping stone to growth and I know from my own experiences that you will love studying with Federation University.