University of Warwick student Alex Blades arrived in Australia mid-July during 2018

"So far the experience has opened my mind. At the University of Warwick I’m studying History and at Monash I’ve just started Indigenous studies and International Development modules. These subjects aren’t offered as part of my degree at Warwick so it’s a great opportunity to extend my knowledge outside of my degree.

I chose to study at the University of Warwick as I knew they had a connection with Australia through Monash University. Once I started my course I became familiar with the Monash Warwick Alliance and was eligible to receive a bursary allowance. I started saving to go to Australia a long before I started my degree but having access to a bursary meant I was able to get there faster. It has meant that not only do I get to study really interesting subjects, but I can really enjoy my time here and I have plans to travel outside of Melbourne, to Brisbane and Tasmania.

I’m hoping this experience will help with my future career plans to work in the Foreign Office, and to also help me with the internship I’m doing next year at the Commonwealth Office. My experience living and studying abroad is definitely helping me to become globally aware.”