From Mauritius to Melbourne – How IDP Helped This International Student Realise Her Goals of Studying Finance

According to Tripadvisor, the island nation of Mauritius is a “tropical paradise with tons to do and some of the most beautiful landscapes on the planet.” So, what would motivate a citizen of this oasis to travel thousands of kilometres to the temperate concrete jungle of Melbourne, Victoria? Australia’s world class education, of course! This was the motivation for former Victoria University student, Cheshna Boolaky who, with the help of IDP, traversed the Indian Ocean to find her new home in Melbourne and embark on her finance studies. We spoke with Cheshna about her journey from Port Louis to Port Phillip Bay, and how pursuing international education has changed her life for the better.

Hi Cheshna. How did your journey from Mauritius to Melbourne begin?

Since I was in high school, I knew I wanted to pursue accounting. My journey began with extensive research into universities and courses that aligned with my academic and career aspirations. This involved attending informational events, exploring online resources, and consulting with academic advisors to gather comprehensive information about study options in Melbourne. Additionally, I carefully reviewed admission requirements, program structures, and opportunities for international students to make an informed decision.

Prior to starting your journey, were you already familiar with IDP? If not, how did you find out about us?

I was not familiar with IDP. I discovered IDP when I attended one of their exhibition events, where I learned about their services and the support they offer to students seeking education opportunities abroad.

Growing up in Mauritius, were you always interested in journeying to Australia? If so, why?

Australia was always intriguing to me. The country's reputation for high-quality education, diverse culture, and natural beauty captured my imagination early on. As I progressed through my education and began considering options for higher studies, Australia consistently stood out as a promising destination due to its excellent universities and the opportunities it offers to international students. The prospect of experiencing a different academic environment and immersing myself in a new cultural landscape further fuelled my interest in making Australia, particularly Melbourne, part of my educational journey.

Mauritius and Australia are separated by almost 8000km of Indian Ocean. What surprised you most about Australia when you arrived here?

I found Melbourne’s fluctuating weather fascinating, quickly understanding why locals joke about experiencing "four seasons in a day." Additionally, I was thrilled to discover that the business campus was conveniently located in the city, which was a pleasant surprise upon my arrival. I also noticed the unique coffee culture, where the day often begins with a cup of coffee, and the continuous iconic sounds of trams echoing through the city streets.

How did our IDP counsellors help you settle in to your new life in Melbourne?

IDP counsellors primarily assisted me with the student visa application process and navigating through the university admission procedures. Their support was crucial in ensuring that all required documents were in order and submitted correctly, simplifying what can often be a complex process. Their guidance and expertise played a significant role in securing my admission to Victoria University and preparing me for the move to Melbourne, setting a solid foundation for my study journey abroad

Why did you ultimately choose Victoria University (VU) as your preferred institution?

VU's practical and industry-focused programs closely matched my career ambitions, and its strong industry connections and emphasis on practical learning were compelling factors for gaining valuable work experience. Additionally, both Australia and VU provide extensive support services for international students, including academic assistance, accommodation guidance, and cultural integration programs. Positive feedback from alumni and the university's strong reputation for student satisfaction further reinforced my decision.

You previously had an accounting internship in Mauritius. What attracted you to the areas of finance and accounting?

I was particularly fascinated with how financial systems operate and their impact on business decisions. I was intrigued by the analytical aspects of accounting, such as interpreting financial statements and making strategic recommendations based on data. The opportunity to understand the intricacies of financial management and contribute to the financial health of organisations resonated with my career aspirations. Additionally, experiencing firsthand how accounting principles are applied in real-world business scenarios further solidified my interest in pursuing a career in finance and accounting.

You enrolled in a Bachelor of Business course at VU, which you undertook through the Block Model. How beneficial was the Block Model for your learning experience?

The Block Model was incredibly beneficial for my learning experience in several ways. Studying one subject at a time allowed me to fully immerse myself in the material without the distraction of juggling multiple subjects simultaneously. The flexibility to choose between morning, afternoon, or evening classes was immensely convenient, accommodating my personal schedule and enabling a better work-study-life balance. Moreover, the emphasis on practical learning sessions over traditional lectures and tutorials was highly effective. Engaging in hands-on activities, case studies, and collaborative projects provided real-world insights and practical skills that are directly applicable in professional settings.

Were there any aspects of studying in a new university and country which you found stressful or challenging? If so, how were you able to overcome these challenges?

Coming from a tropical island, adjusting to Melbourne’s cold weather was initially a significant challenge for me. However, over time, I've grown to appreciate and even enjoy the winter months more. Adapting to the colder climate involved acquiring suitable clothing and embracing activities that are unique to winter in Melbourne, such as enjoying cozy cafes and winter festivals.

Another challenge I faced was balancing my academic responsibilities with household chores and work commitments. Managing these tasks simultaneously required careful planning and discipline. I found that establishing a clear timetable and sticking to it helped me prioritise and allocate time efficiently for studying, chores, and work.

How did VU prepare you for post-graduation employment?

VU helped me prepare through practical experiences and skill-building initiatives. The interactive workshop classes at VU were instrumental in developing my interpersonal skills, providing opportunities to collaborate, communicate effectively, and work in diverse teams. Additionally, VU's Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program played a crucial role in my career readiness. Securing an internship within VU's finance department through the WIL program exposed me to the realities of the professional world, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. This experience not only enhanced my technical skills but also gave me valuable insights into industry practices and expectations.

You travelled far and worked very hard to get where you are. How did you feel on graduation day?

I experienced a profound sense of contentment and achievement. Despite the graduation being held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I still felt a strong sense of accomplishment, especially knowing that I had secured a full-time graduate role in finance beforehand. This achievement amplified my happiness and fuelled my optimism for the future.

You’re currently working as a junior finance business partner, which is fantastic! When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your spare time in Melbourne?

When I'm not working, I like to make the most of my spare time by engaging in activities that keep me active and challenge me physically and mentally. I enjoy swimming, which is not only a great exercise but also refreshing in Melbourne's vibrant atmosphere. Attending dancing workshops allows me to express myself creatively and connect with others who share a passion for dance. Recently, I've been focusing on personal challenges like building body strength and learning how to do a headstand, which adds a new dimension to my fitness routine and keeps me motivated.

What’s some advice you would give to other prospective international students who aren’t sure where or how to start their journey?

Choosing a field of study aligned with your passions is crucial, as is conducting thorough research on your desired career path and the necessary steps to achieve it. Starting your journey as an international student can initially seem daunting, but with meticulous research, thoughtful planning, and a proactive mindset, you can lay a solid foundation for a fulfilling and enriching experience abroad. It's essential to prepare yourself well for university life, ensuring you make informed decisions that align with your academic and career goals.

This interview was part of our ongoing series, ‘Student Success Stories’. Check out our previous entries below:

• Jaspreet Gill

• Manisha Shrestha

• Sarbjeet Singh

• Ratih Arruum Listiyandini