Brahmaputra Marjadi

I am a medical doctor and a lecturer in medical microbiology from Surabaya, Indonesia. I have been a recipient of the Australian Development Scholarship from AusAID twice. First in 1999-2001 to undertake the Master of Public Health (by coursework), and then in 2004-2008 to undertake my PhD research. I have been studying the prevention of healthcare-associated infection (also known as infection control), focusing on New South Wales in my MPH and on rural Indonesia in my PhD.

My decision to undertake both degrees at UNSW was prompted by the quality and approachability of the academic staff, as well as the support facilities such as the Library. I also found that my fellow students were highly motivated and supportive to each other, both academically and socially.

A postgraduate degree from UNSW is highly appreciated internationally and has helped me to improve my career. After my MPH study I was appointed the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at my university, and my PhD training has led to the next stage of my career in the faculty's Research Office. I have also been able to forge research collaborations with the Indonesian Ministry of Health, other universities and hospitals both in Indonesia and overseas, and international organisations.

Six years studying overseas inevitably brings many academic as well as personal challenges. I am glad to say that through those challenges I have been more than adequately supported by UNSW student services providers such as the International Student Services, the Counselling Service, the Learning Centre, and the UNSW Careers and Employment. I also involved myself in many voluntary activities including student representation at the school, faculty, and university levels, which increased my sense of belonging to the campus community -- or "civitas academica", as we call it in Indonesia.

Although living in Sydney has its challenges, especially living costs, I found it manageable with good planning and a wide network of friends and information. Reasonably affordable accommodation, meals, and other daily needs do exist as long as one knows where to find them, or knows who to ask for such information. In return, there is so much that Sydney has to offer, including free events and attractions, which is very good for one's mental health after a hard day's study. I also found many community groups that welcomed me with open arms and quickly became my family away from home.

In short, with an open mind, strong commitment, good planning, and a bit of an adventurous streak, studying in UNSW and living in Sydney have allowed me to live a well-balanced and rewarding life.