Aolin Xu’s decision to relocate to Australia for her university education stemmed from a mix of financial pragmatism and familial opportunity. Born in Australia but primarily raised in Washington, her parents’ proposal to cover her tuition fees in Australia presented an enticing prospect. This offer, coupled with the significantly lower educational costs compared to those in the United States, made pursuing her studies at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) a compelling choice.
In January 2020, Aolin embarked on a four-year journey studying education and science at UNSW. However, driven by evolving interests, she later transitioned to computer science, positioning herself to graduate in the coming year. The financial burden of tuition was alleviated by Australia’s system of Commonwealth Supported Places, which subsidized a significant portion of her educational expenses. This support, combined with accommodation in a family-owned Sydney apartment, afforded Aolin the rare opportunity to graduate debt-free, a feat that many of her American peers could only dream of amidst the exorbitant costs of U.S. higher education.
Beyond financial considerations, Aolin found herself immersed in a cultural shift from the hustle-driven ethos of American academia to a more laid-back Australian lifestyle. While she initially felt somewhat out of place with her assertive American demeanor in the face of Australia’s “tall poppy syndrome” – a cultural tendency to frown upon overt displays of ambition – Aolin appreciated the country’s emphasis on humility and neutrality. However, she noted occasional challenges in navigating a society where political engagement sometimes took a backseat to a more apolitical stance.
Living in Sydney also introduced Aolin to practical benefits such as an efficient public transport system and a universal healthcare system known as Medicare, which contrasted favorably with the healthcare challenges she heard her parents grapple with back in the U.S. Moreover, Australia’s favorable weather and proximity to exotic travel destinations like Bali and Malaysia provided Aolin with opportunities for leisure and exploration that enriched her university experience.
Academically, Aolin thrived, securing a promising job as a technical consultant at Ernst & Young (EY) following a successful internship. Reflecting on her career prospects, Aolin acknowledged that Australia’s job market, while less cutthroat than America’s, still offered ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Her upcoming role at EY underscored the viability of Australia as a destination for career advancement, despite not being the epicenter of global tech giants or entertainment industries like Hollywood.
Despite her positive experiences in Australia, Aolin admitted to missing her family and friends back in the U.S. Her future remains uncertain, torn between settling in Australia or embarking on further global adventures. With her parents planning to join her in Australia upon retirement, Aolin looks forward to a future that blends the familiarity of home with the excitement of international exploration.
As Aolin Xu navigates the complexities of balancing cultural adaptation, career aspirations, and personal connections, her journey exemplifies the transformative impact of international education and the diverse opportunities it can offer. Her story highlights the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in a new environment while embracing new cultural norms and seizing professional opportunities.