Bachelor of Pharmacy
Why did you choose to study at the University of South Australia (UniSA)?
"I was inspired to study beyond high school by my love of science and all things health care. I was also very involved with pharmacy at a young age as my mother is also a pharmacist so the progression was quite organic. I chose UniSA just on a whim actually, my aunt has nephews studying other health professions across Australia and she had suggested I try to apply also and luckily I was accepted straight away."
What do you enjoy most about studying at UniSA?
"I loved the community like feeling I got being on campus and the quality of education is very comparable to Canadian education."
How do you think UniSA compares to other universities?
"I think UniSA is on par with most aspects of pharmacy however the progression of practice is a bit slow. I would say that UniSA definitely has a very competitive research program which is very promising."
UniSA is known as being a progressive and enterprising university as well as one which has an international outlook. Have you experienced this in your studies?
"I feel as though UniSA embraces ideas and methods from many international perspectives very well which makes for a quality educational experience. I would say that the progression is slower than I anticipated but in Australia I absolutely think that UniSA is on the forefront of pharmacy education."
How would you describe the quality of teaching staff? How have they supported you during your studies?
"The quality of the staff is exceptional at UniSA. I was always given assistance when required and continual guidance was greatly appreciated during my studies>"
What did you think of the campus you studied at? What facilities did you find the most useful or impressive? Did you have a favourite spot on campus?
"I really enjoyed the fact that city east campus was very small and contained and everything felt very welcoming. I found the library and computer pools to be the most useful and as such that is where I spent most of my time when not working or going to the fitness centre."
Have you used UniSA's academic or social support services? What was your experience?
"I did use Campus Central on a regular basis to complete my financial requirements for Canadian funding. I found the staff to be very accommodating however the process was not as streamlined/organised as I would have expected but I assume that to be because Canadian students are quite rare. I also used FM Assist on a yearly basis for my locker rental which was so valuable with all the necessary resources required for pharmacy."
Was it easy to make friends?
"I did find it quite easy to make friends with all the group activities required by each course and naturally some people just fall into place naturally so it was really enjoyable."
Why did you choose Adelaide and what was your first impression?
"Adelaide chose me really, I applied and UniSA accepted me into the program and I just went with the decision to go! From first glance I felt like Adelaide was just like home, easy to navigate, beautiful city and very laid back which was a pleasant surprise and also helped to ease the home sickness."
Did you feel welcome when you first arrived?
"I did feel welcome which was a relief in such a stressful time in my life. Without all my (now) friends I would not have had such a good time and because of them I feel like Adelaide could someday be my home again."
Did you engage with your home community in Adelaide or use the opportunity to meet people from other cultures? What was your experience?
"I had a close knit block of neighbours and I did engage with them casually on a regular basis but I didn't engage in community groups etc as I was too occupied with my employment and university work. I did notice that my area was very multicultural and I found that to be very refreshing."
What do you like the most about Adelaide?
"I love the laid back atmosphere and the small town feel of Adelaide the most. It doesn't feel like a city! And I really love the beach, was my favourite place to be!"
Did you come out with your family? If so what has it been like for them to settle in Adelaide?
"Unfortunately I came alone but I now have an extended Aussie family and a dog to call my own!"
What advice would you give to a student considering coming to Adelaide and studying at UniSA?
"I would suggest that they embrace every situation and meet as many people as possible because those people will get you through some of the toughest moments you'll ever have. I would also suggest getting a job because it gives you another purpose and helps you learn your craft. And get a locker at uni....just do it... you'll thank me later."
