My study abroad experience in AU

I am a Year 12 student at Box Hill High School. I have been here for more than 2 years. At the end of 2022, I made one of the most important decisions of my life—I left my home, my family, and everything familiar behind, and boarded a plane to Melbourne, alone. I was filled with a mix of nervousness and excitement. 

Back in China, my daily life was centred around academics. I studied day in and day out, with little room for anything else. But deep down, I yearned for something more—for a broader perspective, new experiences, and personal growth. That’s why I chose to study abroad.

After completing a three-month intensive language course, I officially became a student at Box Hill High School. In the beginning, everything felt overwhelming. The environment was unfamiliar, and I found myself struggling with homesickness and loneliness. As someone who is naturally introverted, making friends was a real challenge—especially with the added difficulty of expressing myself fluently in English.

However, what truly made a difference were the people around me. The teachers were patient and supportive, and the students were warm and welcoming. Their kindness gave me the confidence to open up. I began to take small but meaningful steps: participating more in class, asking questions, and reviewing lessons after school. These efforts slowly paid off, and I started to feel a sense of belonging.

Over time, I not only adapted to this new environment but also began to thrive in it. I made close friends, improved my language skills, and discovered that school here was more than just academics. Box Hill High School offered a vibrant array of extracurricular activities that brought colour to my life—like the swimming carnival, where everyone came together in a joyful and energetic atmosphere. 

In Year 10, I even joined the school’s badminton competition and was proud to achieve a good result. It was a moment that showed me how far I had come, not just in skill, but in confidence. 

Looking back, I’m truly grateful to be a part of this school community. Even though my parents are thousands of kilometres away, Box Hill High feels like a second home. Living and studying abroad on my own has helped me grow into a more independent, mature, and resilient person. I’ve learned to face challenges head-on, manage my life without relying on my parents, and celebrate the small victories along the way.

This is my last year in Box Hill High School. I will cherish the time here. My journey so far has not always been easy, but it has been deeply rewarding. I’m proud of how much I’ve grown, and I look forward to the future with an open mind and a courageous heart.