Edith Cowan University study tour group gather for a welcome photo with their Indonesian hosts as part of the New Colombo Plan program.
The length of time you can spend studying overseas can be as varied as the countries that annually welcome Australian university students.
For example, study tours typically run for 1-2 weeks and include a small group of your equally eager classmates.
These tours open your eyes to new cultures and traditions, as well as demonstrating how your study discipline is put into practice in another country.
Study abroad and exchange is another longer-term travel option.
Through its international partnerships, universities can offer a smorgasbord of study experiences that last for one or two semesters.
These six- or twelve-month exchanges really allow you to immerse yourself in a new culture, make valuable contacts and enjoy a truly enriching experience, both personal and professional.
The New Colombo Plan
The New Colombo Plan is an initiative of the Australian Government that aims to ensure Australian university students have the skills and work-based experiences to contribute to our domestic and the regional economy.
The NCP supports undergraduates to undertake study, language training and internships in countries across the Indo-Pacific region.
All up, the NCP has 40 eligible host locations across the region.
Host countries include Bhutan, Singapore or Samoa to name three.
The NCP supports work-based experiences through internships, scholarships, mentorships, practicums and clinical placements.
Business and Marketing student Hamish Hennessy at home on the Joondalup Campus.
Meet Hamish from Perth
Hamish Hennessy is studying a Commerce degree at Edith Cowan University in Perth.
Hamish was accepted into the New Colombo Plan Scholarship program to help him prepare for a successful future career.
He travelled to Indonesia as part of a university study tour paid for by his NCP scholarship and supported by ECU's School of Business and Law.
Hamish says he benefitted hugely from this experience.
This included developing an ability to feel comfortable while working overseas.
Experiencing a new culture was also high on his list.
As was developing cross-cultural competence and honing his problem-solving skills – especially as he didn't speak the language!
Hamish being an outgoing person also enjoyed making new friends with the group he was travelling with.
And of course, completing this experience is something that will enhance his résumé.
Hamish says he has found his passion for marketing and creativity, majoring in both Law in Business and Marketing as part of his degree.
He's even landed a job as a marketing coordinator before graduating!
You can watch some highlights of the tour and hear from Hamish in this short video.
Explore Overseas Study Opportunities with ECU (2 mins 15 secs)
