Where are you from, and what are you currently studying, or have you studied, and at which institution?
I am from Jaipur, Rajasthan, the Pink City of India. I am currently pursuing an MBA with a major in Project Management at the University of Adelaide. I have a background in Journalism and Public Relations, and this is my second master’s degree. I studied Journalism, Corporate Communications, and Marketing at my previous educational institutions.
What has your timeline in Adelaide looked like?
I arrived in Adelaide in January 2024, as a trimester intake student and I was fortunate to receive a scholarship from the University of Adelaide. Within my first 15 days, I joined the Community Volunteering Program, the university’s official volunteering initiative. Soon after, I took on the role of Marketing Head at the Adelaide Indian Student Society.
Alongside my studies, I have worked in various casual jobs that pushed me out of my comfort zone but have turned out to be one of the best learning experiences enhancing my interpersonal skills.
Beyond university, I have actively participated in several volunteering programs. Recently, I was honoured to be selected as an International Peer Mentor for 2025 at the University of Adelaide. I also volunteered at the Sony Foundation’s fundraising event at Adelaide Oval and continue to support the Motor Neurone Disease Association of South Australia. Moreover, I had the privilege of volunteering for the Faculty of Arts, Business, Law, and Economics at the University of Adelaide’s Open Day 2024.
My time in Adelaide has been a journey of learning, growth, and meaningful community engagement.
What motivated you to choose Adelaide over other Australian cities for your studies?
I come from a small city in India, Jaipur, and while Melbourne had always been my dream destination, something about Adelaide felt like a calling. When I received my offer letter from the University of Adelaide, I had a strong instinct that this city was meant for me—and looking back, I believe I made the best decision.
From the day I arrived to where I am now, a year into my journey, Adelaide has welcomed me with warmth and made me feel at home. In many ways, Adelaide gives me Jaipur vibes, as both cities are growing, full of opportunities, and rich in culture. What makes it even more special is that both Jaipur and Adelaide consistently rank among the most liveable cities in the world.
I’ve realised that I am not a big-city person; I appreciate a slower pace of life where I can truly make the most of my 24 hours. Adelaide offers the perfect balance—providing excellent academic and career opportunities while still maintaining a sense of community and comfort. That one instinctive decision led me here, and I couldn't be more grateful for it.
How did you select your course and institution, and what resources or support services have you found most helpful at your institution?
Coming from a journalism background, transitioning into project management was a slight shift, but I wanted to enhance my qualifications and broaden my career prospects. My mother encouraged me to explore management courses, as I had always enjoyed the project management and marketing aspects of my previous job.
While researching, I found the University of Adelaide’s website to be incredibly informative and well-equipped with detailed course information. Additionally, my education counsellor in India guided me in selecting the right program that aligned with my interests and career goals. Learning about the growing opportunities in the business sector and the strong support services available at the university reassured me that I was making the right choice.
Throughout my journey, I have found various resources and support services to be immensely helpful, from English learning centres to LinkedIn profile-building workshops. Because of such career workshops, I had the opportunity to participate in the Global IQ Connect program, which exceeded my expectations. It was an incredible learning experience, and earning a certification from the program further enriched my student journey.
The university provides exceptional support, ensuring students have access to career development opportunities, student societies, and networking events that help them thrive both academically and professionally.
Describe a moment when you felt truly at home in Adelaide.
I live in student accommodation managed by the university, and I truly believe that the people I’ve met, whether at my accommodation, university, or through volunteering, have made all the difference. Everyone here is so warm and welcoming, and I was fortunate enough to find a group of people whom I now call home. They make me feel at ease, turning this city into more than just a place to study, but a place to belong.
However, my most defining moment in Adelaide was during one of my many walks along the Torrens River. After six to seven months of living here, I suddenly realised that the Torrens was no longer just a river to me, it had become my river diary. It had witnessed my laughter, my tears, my quiet moments of reflection, and even the poetry and stories I would recite to myself.
Each day in Adelaide feels different, bringing new experiences and opportunities. I’ve come to understand that the key to feeling at home is giving a place time, and in return, this city has embraced me with an open heart.
If you were to take a friend on a day trip around Adelaide, where would you take them and why?
If I were to take a friend on a day trip around Adelaide, without a doubt, Victor Harbor would be my first choice. I have never seen anything more breathtaking than this coastal gem.
One day, I decided to sit there, put my phone aside, and just take in the beauty around me. That’s when I witnessed something truly magical—a full rainbow stretching across the sky and dolphins playfully swimming in the water. It was a moment of pure serenity, a scene so surreal that it became one of my core memories in Adelaide.
Victor Harbor isn’t just about the scenic views; it’s about the feeling it gives you a deep sense of peace, connection with nature, and a reminder to slow down and appreciate life’s little wonders. That’s why, if I had to show someone the beauty of Adelaide, this would be the place I’d take them.
Where do you currently work, and what are your future aspirations?
I recently returned from India and have started looking for work again, while also reconnecting with my previous employer for a casual role. However, my long-term goal is to explore the fields of Project Management, Marketing, and Public Relations in the Australian job market.
With experience working in Public Relations in India, I am eager to learn how the industry functions here, especially regarding marketing strategies, brand communication, and stakeholder engagement. Marketing comes naturally to me in many respects, whereas Project Management is something I am currently studying and would love to implement in a professional environment.
Ultimately, I aspire to work in the impact sector, ideally with organisations like UNICEF or UNESCO, where I can contribute to areas like sustainability, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and media-driven social impact. I want to integrate my expertise in public relations and marketing with the skills I’ve gained from my studies and work experiences, using them to create meaningful change in the world
My ultimate goal is to be the change. Impact is at the core of everything I’ve learned—it’s the guiding principle of my life.
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