Hi, my name is Rico Chung. I'm from Hong Kong (SAR) and I studied a Bachelor of Communication at The University of Queensland. I'm also a UQ International Student Ambassador and a UQ Life Assistant Student Engagement and Communication Officer.
Why did you choose to study in Australia and specifically at UQ?
Australia has always appealed to me, not only for its status as a popular global study destination, but also for its amazing climate and outdoor lifestyle. To me, Australia is a wonderful blend of sandy beaches, inspiring landmarks, breathtaking rainforests and world heritage sites.
I chose UQ as it consistently ranks within the world’s top universities, with international learning opportunities, partnerships that provide support and industry insight. These factors have guaranteed that I will enjoy a high quality of education here at UQ. Not to mention that UQ's beautiful campus environment is on par with those of the best higher education providers in the world.
What are your thoughts on studying in Australia and Brisbane?
I like that Brisbane has a well-balanced urban and outdoor lifestyle. From the miles of nearby golden shoreline and lush subtropical rainforests to its cosmopolitan downtown, Brisbane offers a range of lifestyle options like no other Australian city. You can easily access outdoor leisure place such as South Bank Parklands, as well as the lush Botanic Gardens right beneath the breathtaking Mt Coot-tha which contains rainforest glades, bamboo groves and scenic lily ponds.
Brisbane is my home away from home and I really like that it’s both multicultural and laid-back. Through different activities, the friends I have made became my friends for life, with who I share and will continue to share memories for many years to come. No matter who you are or where you want to go, Brisbane truly has a place for you.
What are the best things about your program at UQ?
With today’s advanced technology, developing awareness of the roles various media play in society and skills involved in the production of media content is essential. My program does this and more, providing me with the space to broaden my intellectual horizons, exposing me to industry practitioners and internship opportunities, and empowering me to interact with one of the most stimulating and diverse groups of people I have ever met – staff and students from around the globe.
UQ has equipped me with the skills to be a good problem solver, an inventor, a professional and a storyteller who can build effective relationships and find creative and innovative solutions to the toughest problems. My program at UQ balances the theoretical and practical aspects of communications, with leading practitioners and academics that aren't afraid to challenge you and help you deepen your knowledge.
Have you completed any work or industry experience while studying?
While studying at UQ, I also had the chance to participate in the 2019 Brisbane International Student Ambassador program and volunteer with Multicultural Australia as an Online Communications Assistant at the Brisbane Student Hub.
I also interned with the UQ Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty Marketing and Engagement Team – an opportunity I received through my internship course. This internship experience offered me an opportunity to gain professional experience which has helped me to prepare me for my future career as well as step outside of my comfort zone.
How have you grown from your experiences?
During my first semester at UQ, I did not really talk to many people and I kept mostly to myself studying in my room. I honestly thought that there was no point in making friends because most of the students would leave after they graduate, like in 1 or 2 years.
By the time my second semester came around, I realised that this behaviour stopped me to connect with everyone, and so I started to reach out to other students because I wanted to become a part of the community – I wanted to hear what other students had to say.
What advice would you give people from other countries about studying at UQ?
Studying at UQ has given me the opportunity to shape my own future and walk my own path. Step out of your comfort zone and cherish this time so it will become an amazing experience that you will be proud to share with others as well.
Never forget that studying abroad enables you to explore parts of the world that you’d never usually be able to as a student.
