Mark (Papua New Guinea)

Country: Papua New Guinea
Degree: Master of STEM
Faculty: Sciences

“My advice for those seeking admission to a prestigious university, look no further than the University of Adelaide. It offers a fertile ground for both personal and academic growth.”

Says Mark, recipient of an Australia Award and teacher from Papua New Guinea.

Mark quickly realised the key to overcoming academic and cultural challenges was accepting the support and guidance from the International Student Support team. One-on-one support from an International Sponsored Student Advisors also provided crucial help as he coped with the loss of a loved one back home.

“Mrs Seimon's compassion and understanding were invaluable during this period of grief.  She not only provided a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on, but more importantly, she offered timely advice.  Her insights on coping with grief while managing my studies abroad were invaluable.  She helped me develop strategies to stay focused and connected with my family back home despite the immense distance.  Her unwavering support and empathy helped me cope with this immense loss and find the strength to continue my studies.”

His studies have not only deepened his understanding of leadership in diverse education system but also fuelled his passion to improve the teaching of STEM disciplines in his home country.

“Earning this scholarship to study at the prestigious University of Adelaide has been a truly transformative experience. It has provided me with invaluable opportunities to delve deeper into the world of education and hone my skills as an educational leader.

The meticulously designed curriculum at the School of Education has been instrumental in my growth. Well-structured assessment tasks and insightful monitoring systems have pushed me to excel academically and fostered a deeper exploration of my passion for STEM pedagogy, particularly in the context of high school and secondary physics instruction.

Beyond content knowledge, courses like "Education Leadership in Diverse Contexts" and "Introduction to Educational Well-being" have equipped me with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of leading within a diverse educational environment like Papua New Guinea. These courses, combined with the unwavering support and expertise of the University's dedicated academic and support staff, have instilled in me a strong foundation for success,” explained Mark.

Why did you choose to study at the University of Adelaide?

Initially, I did not apply to the University of Adelaide; my first and second choices other universities in Australia. However, since the Master of Physics by coursework program I was interested in was not offered there, I was asked if I would consider doing a Master of STEM at the University of Adelaide. Without a second thought, I accepted the offer, believing that with determination, the University of Adelaide would also provide me with excellent opportunities to flourish.

How did you access the Australia Awards scholarship (AAS)?

My journey to the University of Adelaide began when my brother, a fellow Australia Awards scholar, shared the AAS program website with me. Captivated by the scholarship's opportunities, I decided to explore it further, ultimately redirecting my focus from applying to the Papua New Guinea University of Technology.

Unfortunately, my initial application was unsuccessful due to a discrepancy between my reintegration plan and my school principal's recommendation letter.  Determined to succeed, I addressed the feedback and re-applied in the same year (2022).

Juggling multiple commitments proved challenging. While diligently preparing my AAS application, I also needed to obtain Department of Education approval as a current teacher and manage the demanding workload of teaching Physics and Advanced Mathematics to Grade 12 students. Despite these hurdles, my perseverance paid off.

For those with science and math backgrounds like myself, the IELTS Test (International English Language Testing System) presented another obstacle.  While reading comprehension and essay writing weren't my strong suits, I remained committed to achieving my goals (passing the Test), and this has eventually paid off.

How did the International Student Support benefit you during your time in Adelaide and at the university?

Coming from Papua New Guinea, a country rich in cultural diversity, adapting to life in Adelaide presented a significant challenge. The cultural shift was inevitable, and I experienced culture shock upon arrival. Fortunately, the International Student Support team at the University of Adelaide played a pivotal role in helping me navigate this adjustment. Their resources and workshops proved invaluable.  They offered sessions designed to help international students understand Australian culture, social norms, and everyday life.  These workshops equipped me with tools to overcome initial anxieties and feel more comfortable in my new environment.

Beyond cultural adjustment, the support team provided essential academic guidance. They offered workshops on study skills, time management, and navigating the University's learning resources. These sessions were crucial in ensuring my academic success.  The support team also offered personalized consultations, allowing me to address specific challenges I faced in my coursework.

Perhaps the most impactful aspect of the International Student Support program was the opportunity to connect with other international students.  The team facilitated social events and activities that allowed me to build friendships with students from diverse backgrounds. This network of peers provided invaluable support, both academic and social, throughout my studies.  We were able to share experiences, collaborate on assignments, and offer encouragement to one another.

What was your favourite thing about living in Adelaide as a student?

Adelaide's best feature, beyond its liveability ranking, was the perfect blend of being easy to navigate with a friendly community. This accessibility extended to both cultural experiences and natural beauty. Out of many things, one thing that I like the most is world-class festivals like the Fringe and food and wine events were all within reach. Parklands like the Adelaide Botanic Garden provided serene escapes, while a short trip took me to stunning beaches or the Adelaide Hills. Adelaide's friendly people and easy access to nature made it an ideal place to thrive as a student and enjoy my time abroad.

What advice do you have for students aspiring to access the Australia Awards scholarship?

The Australia Awards Scholarship (AAS) is a truly transformative program that unlocks a world of possibilities for aspiring students like myself. It empowers individuals to cultivate their hidden potential and pursue long-held dreams. If you've ever dreamt of studying abroad and propelling your career forward, I urge you to keep an eye out for the scholarship's application rounds, which typically occur annually.

Before applying, take time to thoroughly review the scholarship criteria. This ensures you meet all the eligibility requirements and can prepare the necessary documents well in advance. Having a well-organized application package demonstrates your commitment and attention to detail. Carefully review the required documents and ensure you have everything in order before the deadline.

The application process for the Australia Awards Scholarship can be competitive, and receiving a scholarship on the first try isn't always guaranteed. However, perseverance is key. Don't get discouraged if you're unsuccessful initially. Learn from your experience, refine your application based on the feedback you receive, and try again the following year. My further advice for those seeking admission to a prestigious university, look no further than the University of Adelaide. It offers a fertile ground for both personal and academic growth. With its renowned faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and diverse student body, the University of Adelaide provides the perfect environment to cultivate your talents and prepare for a successful future.

What are your plans for your future?

I like to come back to the University of Adelaide to pursue my Higher Degree (PhD), which is now a work in progress. For my career, I would like to contribute to driving STEM Education in my country.

One word to describe your experience of studying at the University of Adelaide.

Self-efficacy.