Chulan has a passion for helping people and the planet. She gained an interest in biotechnology because of the enormous potential she discovered gene technology has in the future of medical and environmental breakthroughs.

After completing her HSC at a school in Sydney, she enrolled in a Bachelor of Biotechnology, enticed by the University of Newcastle’s global ranking as a top 175 university and the scholarships on offer. But since beginning her studies, she has discovered so much more to like about it.

“The spectacular beach view living in a coastal city and seeing the ocean almost every week is one of my favourite activities,” Chulan described.

“Being able to drive to the Hunter Valley for wine tasting with friends is also a great way to spend my spare time,” she added.

Chulan also loves the friendly and relaxed environment that Newcastle has to offer. And although studying online during lockdown was hard at first, she found solace in the understanding the lecturers showed to her.

“Studying at the University of Newcastle is really peaceful. The staff and lecturers are all so kind and nice to me,” said Chulan.

“When studying online, I would contact my lecturer and classmates constantly by email when I was unclear on something. I was also able to book a one-on-one zoom session with my lab demonstrator, which was really helpful,” she explained.

Chulan lives off campus and likes being able to meet all kinds of people. She is also the president of the Australia China Youth Association (ACYA) – a university club bringing young Chinese and Australian students together to unlock career opportunities and promote cross-cultural dialogue.

Her role involves organising social events like ‘Cheapchewsday’, where they cook traditional Chinese cuisine at a local church; and China Week, which celebrates traditional Chinese culture and is held in partnership with the University’s Confucius Institute. She also filmed a ‘Life in Newcastle’ Vlog with other members of ACYA showcasing the Newcastle lifestyle.

“ACYA helped me a lot to adjust to university life, especially in my first year of uni when I was still trying to figure out how to survive at uni,” Chulan reflected.

“It makes me feel relaxed and welcome here,” she smiled.

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Chulan Fu `

Chulan Fu

Chulan is completing a Bachelor of Biotechnology. She is also the president of the Australia China Youth Association (ACYA) – a university club bringing young Chinese and Australian students together to unlock career opportunities and promote cross-cultural dialogue.

Studying at the University of Newcastle is really peaceful. The staff and lecturers are all so kind and nice to me,” said Chulan.

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