Realise the Aussie dream
Ajay Reddy
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Australia is increasingly becoming one of the more preferred study destinations as compared to the U.S. and the U.K. Find out what the Honorary Consul General of India in Melbourne, Dr. Janardhana Rao has to say.
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Reuters
Migration may seem daunting, but beyond the storm clouds you can carve out a niche for yourself.
What is student life in Australia like?
Australia is a safe country for those wanting to study here. It is hard for wandering minds to find a balance and succeed in a culture that is vastly different. Absolute freedom can sometimes lead one to devious paths of life.
Recent reports of suicide rates are alarming...
Over the past few years many Indian students have committed suicide. It is disheartening to see so many dreams washed away. Some of the reasons for this are: the high expectations from parents to repay bank loans and earn while studying cause these youngsters to breach the regulations of "20 hours per week work limit", the immigration department swarms into their homes and deports them and they are ashamed to face their parents, love affairs and at times no money to pay tuition or living expenses.
So, not all universities are equal...
No. Only eight universities have structured courses, well guided career paths and are ranked in social, political and business circles. Other universities sustain themselves by marketing strategies, which many fall prey to. In many cases, the campus buildings shown in brochures and housing complexes for students are grossly in violation of many marketing laws. One man (name withheld on request) ran a 1000 sq. ft. office what was advertised as a university building. In reality, he had only one office in that building with half a dozen computers. Melbourne University, Monash University, University of New South Wales, University of Sydney, University of Queensland, Western Australian University and RMIT are recognised universities. Most of the others are technical colleges, which have been converted into universities, with a lot of shortfalls.
Why does the Australian immigration department make it hard for students to avail a residency?
That is the mistake of the agents who provide rosy pictures of resident status and ultimately citizenship. The immigration department has a website (www.immi.gov.au) that it is updated frequently and has lots of information. Students who are interested should visit such websites and gather authentic information. Point requirements, skill requirements and other criteria are explicitly explained. It is not the Australian government, which is making it hard for students to stay here; it is the agents who provide wrong information.
What is the break up of living costs?
The average pay rate is $10 per hour and if a student works 20 hours a week, can earn only $200 a week.
The break up —
Rent — $100 per week living legally, not in an overcrowded apartment with illegal occupants.
Food — $50 per week (minimum)
Electricity, gas and water bills — $100 per week (minimum)
Transport — $97 (monthly)
Communication via telephone card — $10 per week
So the weekly earning does not even cover the bare minimum.
What is your message to aspiring students?
First, look at the good Indian universities. If you are not satisfied, then when you go to an agent, ask for authentic information and try and find supportive information on the web. If you don't, then ask your agent to clarify their information.
Second, choose a course that will benefit you in the long run. If you want residency then look at courses that offer points.
Third, look at the course structure, the education provider's repute and at your finances.
Fourth, apply and at the same time look for accommodation and keep in contact with University staff.
Last, bring lots of cheer and motivation, since that is essential and you have to be self-motivated to sustain.
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