Fun, friends and biomedical science (Issue 20, 2009)
Originally from South Africa, Terri-Lee Alexandra Baker, or Alex, is now in her second year of Bachelor of Biomedical Science atLa Trobe.
Alex decided to study overseas because of the advantages of an international qualification. She says that the practical component that her course at La Trobe offers and the invaluable support and guidance that she receives from her lecturers and tutors are one of the things that make her satisfied with the decision to study at La Trobe.
‘I believe that potential employers will see having an internationally recognised degree as a benefit when looking for staff. If I work hard enough for it, my experience gained from studying at La Trobe will create great career opportunities,’ says Alex.
During the International Welcome Festival Orientation, Alex made a lot of friends and found that the sessions she attended during that week helped her feel more comfortable and more confident with being in new surroundings. She believes that to make the most of this experience she not only has to excel in her studies, but also emerge in the culture of the place and learn as much as possible from it.
So she decided to try one of the most Australian things, a football match, which she found ‘pretty enjoyable and the atmosphere was great.’ Next she joined the University’s mountaineering club and got to travel all around Victoria with them. Outside of university, Alex joined a youth group that takes part in charity drives.
‘I have become more independent and resourceful and I have also come to appreciate people in my life more since I have been in Australia. I feel that my people skills have improved greatly,’ adds Alex.
Next on Alex’s list of summer vacation plans is visiting her family in South Africa before her final year of undergraduate study. She is hoping to eventually specialise in pathology.
