International at Griffith: Episode Two

My guest for this week is Sarah Moni. She is a 21-year-old law student from Finland. She comes across as a gentle and quiet individual but dreams of becoming a hard-hitting judge and serving justice.

Ola: Hello Sarah, thank you for joining me today!
Sarah: My pleasure. 

Ola: Why did you choose to come to Australia?
Sarah: I chose to come here because I wanted to pursue my degree in English. That’s near impossible in Finland!

Ola: How long have you been studying at Griffith?
Sarah: Since I’m in my second year of law school it would be a year and a half. But, I came to Australia late 2015 and I was staying in Melbourne for a while.

Ola: What attracted you to Griffith University?
Sarah: I chose Griffith University because the Gold Coast is a beautiful city. I had the choice of studying in Melbourne but I just couldn’t handle the weather! The quality of education at Griffith is great too. The university’s credentials really impressed me.

Ola: How did you create a support system when you first came to Australia?
Sarah: Well I came here by myself. As soon as I started university, I was getting support from everywhere. Even my professors would sit with me and review my assessments with me, as well as answer any doubts that I may have had. The international student advisers also helped me a lot.

Ola: Was it easy for you to meet people with similar interests at university?
Sarah: No. Only because I’m an introvert and I’m used to being by myself all the time. I didn’t come to university thinking I need to make friends or else it would be the end of the world you know? However, without me even thinking about it, I met some amazing people at university that I’m very thankful for.

Ola: I’m glad to hear that! Did you end up joining any clubs on campus?
Sarah: I’m a member of the LSA (Law Student Association), and I’m also a member of the Toastmasters club. The latter played a huge role in boosting my confidence.

Ola: We both know that choosing to study abroad is not an easy decision to make. So, what have you learned so far since you came?
Sarah: I always knew I could accomplish whatever I set my mind to. However, only after I moved here, I realised that the sky is the limit. If you want to do something, just go for it.

Ola: What would you say to an international student that is struggling to adapt to life in Australia?
Sarah: I would tell them that they are not alone. All of us went through this and overcame it. The resources are there. The people that are willing to help you are there. You just need to go look for them because they will not fall into your lap.

Ola: I couldn’t agree with you more. Finally, what are your dreams and hopes for the future?
Sarah: Law is my passion and it is the stepping-stone that will lead me to become a judge. I have a passion for serving justice and helping people in need. This is why I’m so proud of my career choice, and I am 100% sure my university experience in Australia is preparing me for it.

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The series aims to amplify the voices of the international students at Griffith University. Providing us with the opportunity to gain an in-depth insight into the international student experience. This will be achieved by helping us catch sight of the dreams, aspirations and expectations of these young adults who left their home country behind in search of a new adventure. 

If you want to read more stories from international students, or students who are engaged with the global community, you can visit Griffith International’s blog, Explore. You can also get involved by joining Griffith Mates – applications are open now!

A little information about the author:

My name is Ola Khalil. I’m 21 years old and I came to Australia two years ago, to commence a degree in PR & Communications at Griffith. I would call myself a rap music enthusiast and someone who loves adventure.

It would be an understatement to say that these past two-and-a-half years were a whirlwind, so it’s definitely been a wild ride. Through this series, I want to bring you the stories of those who have left home and familiarity, in pursuit of a new adventure in Australia. I hope you enjoy the series.