Being a Bondy means that you are a part of a tightknit community with a strong support network, and can rely on the people around you to help you chase your ambitions. Our aim is to create an environment where you feel inspired and confident to ignite the very best version of yourself; a place where you will never be thought of as just another number, but rather, will have abundant opportunities to stand out. Simply put, we exist for you – to give you the right tools, support, and empowerment to take your life and career in whichever direction you choose.
Pooja Jaiswal was looking for a new adventure when she decided to relocate to the Gold Coast. Her big move couldn’t have come quick enough, given the COVID-19 travel restrictions and lockdowns in Pooja’s hometown in India, which delayed her move to the Gold Coast and in-person studies at Bond by a year. Pooja shares her experience adjusting to a new country and culture, and provides insight into how studying at Bond has led to unforeseen – and incredible – personal growth.
Who are you and what are you currently studying?
My name is Pooja Jaiswal, I am an international student from Jamshedpur, India and I'm studying a Bachelor of Health Sciences at Bond University. I completed my first year at Bond online, but as of February this year, I’ve been able to join the rest of my cohort and continue my studies in person on the Gold Coast.
What has Bond’s personalised approach to learning been like for you?
One of the reasons I chose to study at Bond University was because I didn’t want to be just another number, and so, I was drawn to Bond’s small class sizes and personal and impactful approach to education.
I love making personal and professional connections with my professors and classmates, who I frequently get to collaborate with during tutorials. If I ever have questions, I know that I’ll be listened to during class, which makes me confident I’ll continue to excel in my studies.
What’s your favourite part about Bond’s student experience?
My favourite part about Bond’s student experience is the diversity of students and cultures, and the focus on student wellbeing. The abundance of mental health resources and support services available at Bond have helped me manage my studies and are a pillar in both my personal and professional life.
I was initially worried about making friends when I arrived to the Gold Coast from India, but meeting people of the same ethnicity at Bond has given me the confidence I needed to continue to broaden my friendship groups, and now, I have friends from all around the world!
What’s one thing that wouldn’t have been possible if you hadn’t gone to Bond?
I’m not the same girl that I was two years ago, and I’ve seen an immense amount of personal growth since I moved overseas to study at Bond. Two years ago, I had only just graduated from high school, the COVID-19 pandemic was worsening in India, and the sudden lockdowns really affected me, making me feel more introverted and less motivated (like many others around the globe!). I knew that despite these emotions, studying in Australia would help me push myself outside my comfort zone and explore a new country.
It wasn’t until I was boarding the plane to Australia that I realised the gravity of the journey I was about to embark upon. On the 28-hour flight I had a lot of time to think about this exciting new chapter of my life, which encouraged me to mentally prepare for the adventures and unavoidable curveballs ahead. Ultimately, this entire experience wouldn’t have been possible if it weren’t for Bond.
How do you think Bond will help you secure your dream job?
Studying abroad at Bond has given me a unique global perspective which I will be able to apply to my career, regardless of what I decide to do. Bond has also helped me improve my networking skills and connect with industry professionals, which is invaluable – in my opinion, your network equals your net worth!
If you could describe Bond using one word, what would it be?
Bond in one word: ‘limitless’.