“UniSA is simply amazing and Adelaide is a lovely city. There are beautiful places to travel and I can honestly say that this was the best time of my life so far. I would definitely choose UniSA and Adelaide again if I could!”

Amber Verstegen

What inspired you to study at UniSA?

I knew from the beginning that I wanted to study in Australia, but which university I was unclear. When making decisions I follow my heart, and the moment I saw UniSA I got this feeling of home. When I was looking at UniSA’s social media pages, I immediately noticed it was one big community. UniSA gave me a feeling of safety, friendliness and community and that was exactly what I was looking for.

What do you enjoy most about studying at UniSA?

During the time of COVID, I only had a few weeks of classes on campus. It was a bummer at first that we didn’t have in-person classes anymore, but UniSA had a strong approach in dealing with the situation. Unlike some universities, the UniSA campus was still open and I spent most of my time studying at the Jeffrey Smart Building (City West campus). Furthermore, there are a lot of excursions for students. I went to the city tour, wildlife park and beach. These trips really help you meet other students and as a result of this I met some amazing people who I can now call my best friends.

Why did you choose Adelaide and what was your first impression? What do you like most about Adelaide?

I am from a small town in the Netherlands, and I am not the biggest fan of big cities. They are often loud and busy but Adelaide for me is just perfect. Adelaide has everything you need, often at walking distance. Adelaide is not too big, so it doesn’t take long to go to the mountains or beach. The thing I like most about Adelaide is the fact that I already felt at home after the first day!

Has the Buddies Program made it easier for you to make friends and/or to get involved in the UniSA community?

The Buddies Program and its excursions are amazing! I have met so many other students on these little trips and I have made friends for the rest of my life. The Buddies Program is underrated, and I would recommend everyone to join all the trips and activities because it is an amazing experience, and you will meet so many amazing, new people.

How would you describe the quality of teaching staff? How have they supported you during your studies?

The teaching staff at UniSA is extremely helpful, patient and kind. Whenever I didn’t understand the theory in the lectures, the lecturer would explain it again, in a different way without hesitating. The teaching staff can even help you with personal problems if they affect your studies.

What did you think of the campus facilities? Did you have a favourite spot on campus?

Facilities on campus have everything you need. My favourite spot on campus was the 3rd floor of the Jeffrey Smart building at the City West campus. I have spent so much time here alone and with my friends.

Tell us about the campus events you attended?

I went to every single excursion that was offered and that was just simply amazing. Furthermore, my friends and I played volleyball and we managed to get into the UniSA team!

Orientation Week was very nice and I met most of my friends during this time. It was a great opportunity to start networking and I am sure that without this Orientation Week my semester at UniSA would’ve been less good.

What advice would you give to a student considering coming to Adelaide and studying at UniSA?

Don’t have any doubts, just do it! UniSA is simply amazing and Adelaide is a lovely city. There are beautiful places to travel in South Australia and I can honestly say that this was the best time of my life. I would definitely choose UniSA and Adelaide again if I could!

How do you think UniSA will help you succeed in your career?

Studying abroad changes your whole perspective on the world. You learn to appreciate other cultures and you really get to know yourself. I have changed completely since I left the Netherlands, and I am now a better version of myself. I have made friends from all over the world, and I am sure they will come in handy later on in my life.

UniSA has not only given me the opportunity to reexplore myself, but I have also gained new insights on the theory we’ve learned in class. In my case, not all marketing strategies work in all countries or cultures. UniSA helped me with this international outlook of the world and this will surely benefit me in the future. International experience will give you that little extra that companies are looking for.