Student Highlights
Breaking down cultural barriers
University of Newcastle PhD student and scholarship awardee Salwa says her love of volunteering helped her settle into Australian life.
Salwa originally hails from Indonesia and is devoted to several causes and clubs in Newcastle.
Recently, Salwa was one of six students from across the state who were awarded the 2019 Study NSW CISA Conference Equity Scholarship.
Each of the scholarship winners were invited to attend the CISA (Council of International Students Australia) conference held in July in Perth.
The conference aims to empower international students and celebrate their contributions to Australian society.
At the conference, Salwa shared her experiences and challenges as an international student.
Salwa said she felt very honoured to receive the CISA award because she had a great opportunity to learn more about policies and barriers experienced by some international students studying in abroad.
Whilst balancing her PhD in Education, she’s been part of the University of Newcastle Islamic Society (UNIS), UoN Book Club, and volunteered at multiple events including Harmony Day, Ramadan Iftar, the University’s Open Day and tutoring at the University’s Wollotuka Institute.
She’s also a member of the Australian Indonesian Community (AIC) and the Indonesian Students Association in Australia (also known as Perhimpunan Pelajar Indonesia Australia, or PPIA).
“I love volunteering. I feel happy in my heart when I make time to give to others. I don’t get that feeling with money. Real happiness comes from helping others,” she said.
Salwa said her volunteer roles helped her interact with students from all over the world and break down any cultural barriers.
She said she thinks volunteer work could help other international students settle into Australian life as well.
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Salwa
Being awarded the 2019 Study NSW CISA Conference Equity Scholarship helped Salwa settle into Australian life.
Whilst balancing her PhD in Education, she’s been part of the University of Newcastle Islamic Society (UNIS), UoN Book Club, and volunteered at multiple events including Harmony Day, Ramadan Iftar, the University’s Open Day and tutoring at the University’s Wollotuka Institute.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.