Hailing from the picturesque Swiss Alps, 25-year old Alice Cignetti pursued a degree at the IUED Institute of Translation and Interpreting in the city of Winterthur, northeast of Zurich.

With an option to go abroad to any country of an English-speaking language, Alice chose Australia, a country she had never been to before.

A decision she never regretted for an instant, Alice not only fell in love with Murdoch, but also Perth's amazing beaches - a significant change to the mountains back home.

"Living so close to the beach and having so many to choose from was incredible."

Cheerleading at Murdoch

Alice found her transition to Murdoch a breeze, in a large part thanks to the Study Abroad coordinators.

"I really enjoyed my time at Murdoch. It was very easy settling in and getting used to everything thanks to the help you could always get from the Study Abroad coordinators. Plus, they organized many activities that helped getting to know other students and making new friendships."

Alice was also able to form many close friendships thanks to joining the Murdoch University Cheerleading team. A group of current students who compete at local and interstate competitions against other universities, Murdoch University Cheer welcomes both beginner and experienced athletes.

"I joined the Murdoch University Cheerleading Team and it was so much fun to be part of a sports team from the university you are attending. Something that I could never have done if I would have stayed home because we simply don’t have that.

"As part of the cheerleading team we won three 1^st places and one 2^nd place at several competitions.

"There are many student associations or sports team to choose from at Murdoch – there's really something for everyone."

Studying in Australia vs back home

Studying at Murdoch was a breath of fresh air for Alice for a number of reasons, including the comparisons with her home university.

"Study in Murdoch was a nice change for many reasons. Firstly, it was the first time I could choose my schedule – back home, we just receive our timetable, no choices to be made. Secondly, the style of the classes is way more laid-back than in Switzerland.

"I also really liked having a unit guide, so I knew what was expected throughout the whole semester and could organize myself accordingly."

Like many international students before her, Alice's favourite place on campus was Bush Court, a place where students can relax and mingle under the sun, surrounded by nature.

"I loved going to Bush Court, especially on Thursday when the market is on. It’s so nice to be able to sit there and enjoy the food, the music and the sun while on break from classes."

For fellow Swiss students considering Murdoch, her advice is simple.

"Go! It is a unique experience that widens your horizon and that teaches you a lot about yourself. Murdoch offers a wide range of courses and the atmosphere at the University is great."

Ready to experience Murdoch for yourself? Learn more about Study Abroad at Murdoch.