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Student Story: Sonam Choden

Student Stories
15th July 2024 StudyPerth
Student Stories
15th July 2024 StudyPerth

My name is Sonam Choden, and I come from Bhutan, a tiny kingdom situated in the Himalayas. Before deciding to pursue my master's degree in Perth, I worked at the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce & Industry in various roles, including as the focal point for the International Division and as a project lead. My dedication to these projects made me realise that, despite my extensive experience, gaining additional knowledge and skills in project management was crucial. 

This passion for learning motivated me to further my education. I believed that pursuing higher academic qualifications will not only support my career growth but also open doors to greater opportunities. 

I chose Perth as my study destination due to its educational excellence, diverse range of programs, and rich cultural diversity that embraces international students. Additionally, Perth's natural beauty, pleasant weather, fast-growing economy, and abundant networking opportunities made it an attractive choice. 

Edith Cowan University (ECU) stood out to me as one of the world's top universities, offering an exceptional student experience. The practical courses and international, innovative learning environment at ECU, along with its extensive network of global professionals, have been invaluable for my future prospects. 

As an international student, transitioning to a new educational system while balancing responsibilities as a student and a mother was challenging. However, the support from my family helped me navigate this transition, and I gradually began to enjoy my time in Perth. The city offers vast opportunities for international students, along with comprehensive support services both on-campus and online. 

One of the most exciting aspects of my journey has been the opportunity to give back to the community as an International Student Ambassador with StudyPerth. Volunteering has always been a passion of mine, and this role provided a perfect platform to meet incredible people and represent my university and country alongside peers from around the world.

Recently, I completed a 14-week Work Integrated Learning Program as a part of my course with the Communication Centre at ECU. This experience was incredibly enriching, contributing to my personal and professional growth. I am immensely grateful to ECU for this opportunity, and I often share with my family and friends how much more I have gained than I ever anticipated.