Louise
Choose a degree or area you are passionate about, if you are engaged in your study, you will find it so much more enjoyable.
I decided that I wanted to study International Relations at the beginning of year 11, and after a bit of research it seemed like the ANU, being located in Australia’s heart of politics, was the best place to study.
I chose ANU as it's one of the only places in Australia that offers a focused Bachelor of International Relations. Many other places offer it as part of another degree or with a slightly different name. Although there's a certain amount of structure to the degree, there are so many courses related to my major that I have enough flexibility to be able to take courses in many different areas of interest.
The first thing that surprised me was the breadth and diversity of the area of international relations - it covers so many different topics. I feel like I've only briefly touched on some subject areas but this has been because I have been able to follow my specific interests. I've also been surprised by how enthusiastic the lecturers and tutors are, as they are there to inspire your love of learning and want to see you do well. I've found all the teaching staff to be passionate about their research interests but also willing to help with my learning. The only thing is, unlike school, you have to be the one to take the initiative.
My favourite thing about studying at ANU is being surrounded by like-minded people who love to learn, as well as the beautiful natural surroundings of the campus itself. In my spare time I like to spend time with my family and friends, read, practice yoga and continue my search for Canberra’s best pad thai.
At the moment what I plan to do once I finish my degree changes weekly. I’m interested in human rights and development so I may look for something related to these areas. I didn’t have a ‘gap year’ when I finished high school so I'm considering taking some time off to go travelling across the world when I finish my degree.
My advice to new students or someone thinking about coming to ANU would to be choose a degree or area you are passionate about. If you are engaged in your study, you will find it so much more enjoyable. I also strongly encourage people to look at the new flexible double degree options at ANU as almost any two degrees can be combined in four years instead of six.
Lucina has since graduated from the university.
