Finding the real you, on the other side of the world (Issue 18, 2011)
Ankur Jalvi, Jay to his friends, came from India to study a Bachelor of Finance at La Trobe University in 2010. He has learnt so much here, but the most important thing he has discovered is himself.
Ankur has come to realise his more artistic side, he has his own blog as well as a blog for La Trobe Times, and has won two university competitions, a photography and a video competition. He has made many friends from all over the world during his time at La Trobe and has gained a lot of confidence here.
‘Australia has changed me in so many ways. I am outgoing now. I am not afraid of meeting new people. It has changed me inside and out. I have a brand new mindset now,’ says Ankur.
‘Recently I went on a road trip with my friends from Malaysia and China. It was such an amazing road trip. I have friends from Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, Africa, and my best friend here is from Thailand. I am going to take all these amazing friends and memories back with me.’
Ankur believes the highlight of his time at La Trobe so far has been the opportunities the University has given him. Not only educational, but also the experience of being a part of a community and making global friends.
‘I had the chance to play footy [Australian Rules Football] in a practise session for the Indian Tigers. It’s India’s very own international footy team. It was such an amazing feeling to be part of the team.’
Although only in his second year, Ankur is looking ahead and plans to finish his Master of Financial Analysis at La Trobe as well.
‘But before that [Master of Financial Analysis], I am keen on getting some first-hand work experience. After five years I can see myself battling through financial markets helping businesses on taming financial tornados.’
Ankur is sure his degree from La Trobe University will set him apart from his competitors when looking for a job back home.
‘My degree will definitely give me an edge above others when I will be back home looking for a job. I am sure to impress my future employers with everything that I have learned at La Trobe. I am going to put all my experiences into good strategic use.’