I applied for studying at the University of Western Australia because I was about to finish my undergraduate degree in biological sciences in my home country, and UWA is a good source if you enjoy sciences and research. I also chose Australia because of its famous wildlife and outdoors lifestyle.
Alumni Spotlight: Leticia Maria Mallmann Ferreira
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Biologist. Nature and Science admirer. Loves traveling, meeting new people and discovering different cultures.
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
The University assisted me with all personal and psychological support, free classes to improve language skills, and excellent facilities, especially the libraries and all the free online material available for all students.
I had to organize a house to live in by myself, but the University can also help you with it, in case you need.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
To anyone thinking of experiencing life overseas, I say YOU SHOULD GO! Every experience counts, every challenge makes you stronger and more confident that the day before! Live everyday of your exchange program as it was the last one, and you will have the best time of your life! Be grateful and stay strong, you will not regret.
So many times in our lives we get held back by fears and insecurities, whether in making new friends or taking new chances. I would say to anyone who ever struggles with this that life is much bigger than an impossibility. So, go for it! Do your best because the only person to whom you need to prove anything is you!
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
An average day at the University of Western Australia looks like a great opportunity to learn from excellent teachers, meet new people, make good friends, engage in projects, join clubs, play sports, and enjoy the wildlife of campus! There are also plenty of options to eat and drink between classes.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
My biggest fear was to speak, write and think in my second language (English). I was afraid I could not talk to people or understand them very well. However, it happened to be an excellent challenge in which I could develop my skills as never before and I am proud of myself. Today, I am much more self-confident because of that experience.