Returning international students inject new energy into campus

Returning international students inject fresh energy into campus

Splash as bigger, better fountain installed in lake

Starting university can be one of the most exciting times in a young person’s life. There are people to meet, places to explore, and parties to attend. But when borders shut indefinitely, university life looked different – particularly for students stuck on the other side of the world.

Bond University Bachelor of Health Sciences student, Ms Pooja Jaiswal, decided to make the most of her university experience, despite being 10,000 km from campus. Confined to her family home in India due to Covid lockdowns, Ms Jaiswal nominated to join the Bond University Student Association (BUSA) to better connect with the University community.

“I spent the first year of my degree studying remotely overseas. When studying online, it feels like you are behind the scenes watching over the class, so it is difficult to stay focused and engaged. As the International Student Liaison at BUSA, I began making connections everywhere,” says Ms Jaiswal.

Over the course of the year, Ms Jaiswal’s network grew and in January this year, a BUSA representative was there to greet her when she touched down in Australia at Brisbane Airport.

“A member of BUSA picked me up from the airport and drove me to the campus. Ms Pooja Jaiswal is finally able to join her fellow students in the lab after studying remotely from India for a year.

People here are really helpful and nice. My advice to international students is not to be shy. Reach out. There are so many people available to help you.”

Whilst studying remotely had its social challenges, Ms Jaiswal says the hardest part was not being able to take part in the practical subjects of her degree.

“I really missed that feeling of being in a lab. I’ve always been passionate about chemistry, so when I finally got to Bond and got to do my lab subjects, it felt so good. I’m looking forward to gaining work experience here, before going back to my country and using my knowledge. I’m excited to see where life takes me.”

Watch the video interview with Bachelor of Health Sciences student Ms Pooja Jaiswal.

The Douglas Family Fountain of Learning is now making an even bigger splash as the centrepiece of Lake Orr.

The new fountain was installed in March, with a team of workers braving the Bond lake in gumboots and boats to install the multifaceted fountain. Spouting sun-sparkled droplets by day, by night the new fountain lights up with a multi-coloured display.

It’s the latest upgrade to the Fountain of Learning following a 2004 donation from brothers Angus, and Archie and Gordon Douglas, the original founders of Morgans and PRD Realty respectively. The University recently held a celebratory lunch with the family to recognise their ongoing contribution to the Bond community.

Mr Angus Douglas served as a Bond University Council Member from 1999 to 2007 and since 2009 has continued his involvement as a Community Ordinary Member, for many years.