“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”- Saint Augustine

Apart from dreaming about studying in a renowned university, we have all contemplated about touring the country where the university is located. A Rutgers University aspirant has definitely considered visiting the Niagara Falls, and a UCLA aspirant has imagined himself/herself posing against the backdrop of the Hollywood sign.

But is it really possible to travel and study abroad? What about the travel expenses? Will it affect coursework and grades? Tanmay Iyer, a Griffith university student, had answers to all our questions.

Tanmay is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in the prestigious Griffith University, Australia. “I had never travelled abroad before, so attaining a foreign education has been a thrilling experience. Travelling taught me what textbooks simply could not, it broadened my perspective of the world. I spoke to people of all ages from all over the world, inside and outside the university.”

He elaborated on his educational expeditions, “My course revolves around new developments in aeronautics and automobiles, and practical learning is the convention here. We have field trips and excursions every few weeks, sometimes even outside the country. We study a particular topic, and view its operation or prototype during the field visit. This leads to a better understanding and analysis of any machine or process. In addition, the university plans numerous treks, recreational activities and team-building events, involving picturesque locations and cultural hotspots.”

Tanmay mentioned that the most important lesson taught by his journeys is to take decisions independently, “Each step along the way, I was expected to make choices, from culinary preferences to additional course activities. This was contrasting from my earlier trips, which were planned by my family or friends. Not only were these trips educational and enjoyable, they increased my self-confidence and acceptance towards diverse people. I remember the immense amount of work before and after receiving my university acceptance letter, and realize, in these moments, that it was all worth it.”