Finding purpose through people and practice

For Xinyuan Li, studying overseas has been about more than earning a degree, it’s been a chance to explore the world, find community, and build a career that creates meaningful change.

Originally from Chongqing, China, Xinyuan is now studying a Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at the University of Newcastle.

Before arriving in Australia, Xinyuan had already experienced study overseas, including time at Oxford and UCLA. But after exploring different places and education systems, Australia felt like the right fit.

Lower tuition fees, being regional but close to Sydney, easy to get around, more affordable housing and living expenses, diverse population but not so crowded.

Studying overseas was something Xinyuan had been encouraged to consider from a young age.

"I was in a foreign language middle/high school from age 12 to 18 in an environment encouraging overseas studies. I studied sociology for my bachelor in China. In my undergrad, my department recruited many young professors from overseas institutions; they have great teaching and research capabilities and are close to students, which impressed me a lot."

Personal experiences also shaped the decision.

Being a queer student, I think western institutions offer more opportunities in LGBTQ+ research and gender studies, and they generally do better in anti-discrimination and diversity support.

Choosing social work was about shifting from theory into real-world impact.

Social workers are highly employable in Australia. Shifting my focus from social science research to hands-on practice.

Since starting at the University of Newcastle, Xinyuan has been immersed in practical learning experiences designed to prepare students for the realities of the profession. A major part of the degree is 1,000 hours of field placement training across two semesters, giving students the opportunity to apply their learning in real settings before graduating.

Other highlights have included examining Australia’s colonial history, learning about Aboriginal cultures, participating in role plays and case simulations, and working in triads to strengthen communication skills. Guest speakers with extensive experience in the field have also helped connect classroom learning to practice.

For Xinyuan, the teaching style at the University of Newcastle has been another standout part of the experience.

"I like that our professors would often stop talking in a lecture and ask what our thoughts are, where everyone is encouraged to share their ideas and feel valued and respected. The instructors would ask what we would like to know more about in a certain area and adjust the course content accordingly."

She also appreciates the way the program encourages self-care and wellbeing, helping students avoid burnout while managing the demands of study.

The lecturers themselves have also helped bring learning to life. One lecturer in particular left a strong impression on Xinyuan.

I really like my professor who teaches decolonizing social work. She comes from an Indigenous background herself and has real personal experience of the Stolen Generations, the national enquiries, and truth-telling programs. Her class offers so much new information to me.

Outside the classroom, Xinyuan has found support and belonging across campus. At NUspace, the library has become a favourite place to study.

"I like to read and write on a larger screen."

Small details on campus have also helped make student life easier and more comfortable, from the boiling water tap for tea to support services like AskUON and the Health Clinic.

The health clinic is very efficient in helping with my field placement documents, and they cured my long-lasting skin irritation. AskUON has been very helpful.

Feeling welcomed started before Xinyuan even arrived in Newcastle.

When I received my offer, I got a call from Stephanie at the Future Students International Team, and she talked to me in Mandarin! That’s really impressive. I have never had this welcoming experience from American or British institutions.

Building friendships and community has also been an important part of the experience.

"I play pickleball a lot. I have friends from uni to play pickleball together. I hope to participate in the uni Pride Week this October to meet some LGBTQ+ peers. Also, I would like to explore some activities with NUMates."

Alongside study, Xinyuan has worked part-time while adjusting to life in Australia.

"I worked part-time to partly support myself, to meet more people, and to make my life more engaging and meaningful."

Looking ahead, Xinyuan hopes to support communities through social work and create positive social change.

I hope to be a social worker supporting multicultural communities and LGBTQ+ communities. I want to use my expertise to make people’s lives better, to make a real impact on society and bring positive social change.

For other international students considering studying overseas, Xinyuan’s advice is reassuring and honest.

"It may take some time to find ‘your people,’ but with all the support, you’ll eventually find communities of your own. Don’t worry if you think your English is not good enough, just be brave and speak and ask people to repeat."

From hands-on placements to finding her confidence in a new country, Xinyuan’s journey at the University of Newcastle has been shaped by growth, connection and a passion for helping others.

It may take some time to find ‘your people,’ but with all the support, you’ll eventually find communities of your own.