icon to start playing the desired text.
and
icons, where the
icon and click on it to start using the chatbot. Note that you need to wait for the website to finish loading.
My Australia Awards Story: Making the Most of Australia’s transformative experiences
What are your most memorable experiences living and studying in Australia?
Aside from my academic experience complemented by volunteering activities and work that enriched my sustainability practice, I definitely enjoyed exploring Melbourne and Australia with friends, especially from the Australia Awards Scholarship. From romanticising graduate student life in the many parks and reserves of Melbourne to trying out plant-based offerings of cute cafes, learning truly happens outside the classroom. Aside from the urban sites, I witnessed the varied ecosystem of Australia -- the red soil of Uluru, snowing in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania, and the vast coral garden of the Great Barrier Reef. I also picked up a new fascination for wildlife, especially birds! Show me a photo of an Australian bird and I could probably id that!
What makes Australia a good place for postgraduate education?
Victoria is not just a place to study; it's a place to thrive. The state's educational institutions, such as Monash University, offer cutting-edge programs that equip you with the skills needed to excel in your chosen field. Beyond academics, there are countless opportunities to get involved in meaningful projects like volunteer work that provide real-world experience for your career.
Also, Australian institutions provide academic support with your overall wellbeing at the centre of instruction. There may be challenging moments, but the community is supportive and will help you go through hurdles you experience. Also, Australia has good living standards, especially for students, which help you thrive.
As a Filipino scholar, what are you most proud of?
Very humbled to wave the Philippine flag high as the State of Victoria’s 2024 International Student of the Year, 2023 Youth4Climate Grant Winner, and 2024 Climate Investment Challenge Finalist. It encapsulates my Australian education and the ingenuity of the Filipino
Give one word to describe your Australia Awards journey.
Cliche as it is, Transformative.
Now that you're back, how are you making a difference in your field/community?
I am excited to accelerate climate action through developing the human resources for a climate-resilient and responsive society. My Australian education helped me in becoming a green jobs and green skills specialist and I am starting with my REAP, Green Economy Ready, a toolkit that integrates green jobs in career counselling for senior high school students.
Lara Salaysay completed her Master of Environment and Sustainability from Monash University in 2024.
