University appeal
by Rebecca Jenkins
For
many people the prospect of living in a country where no-one speaks your
mother tongue is daunting. But it was the lure of immersing himself in the
Spanish language that convinced UniSA graduate Ryan Manuel to spend six
months studying at the Pontifica Universidad Catolica de Chile.
Manuel was the first UniSA student to study in Chile and took all his classes in Spanish.
“The big highlight of the trip for me was learning Spanish. I would watch television and read the newspaper every day to absorb the language,” he said.
Manuel said it was crucial that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to experience overseas travel and study – and also to experience the inequality which exists in other countries.
“The disparity between rich and poor in Chile is enormous. In Australia I was used to coaching badminton and providing racquets and balls – in Chile we would sometimes have to provide shoes for some children or they would play in bare feet.”
Executive Director: International and Development Dr Anna Ciccarelli said UniSA had always recognised how important it was for UniSA students to gain real world experience overseas.
The University has developed the UniSA International Exchange Program and offers travel grants for airfares. But the experience is often out of reach for many disadvantaged students.
To help, the University’s annual appeal is focused on funding worthy students to fulfil their dream of studying and working overseas. For more information about giving to the appeal, visit www.unisa.edu.au/business/giving