I would describe Melbourne as a multicultural city. It is a city where there is always something going on. There are many events including the Australian Open, the Footy (Australian Football) and the Spring Carnival Horse Racing. Aussies are great people, really easy going and relaxed. You can also meet nice people from a lot of different cultures, learn from them and try different kinds of cuisine. Don't miss the pies, the Aussie barbecue and their great wine. These foods are yummy!

Melbourne is a safe place compared to other big cities in the world, with many outdoor places where you can enjoy a sunny day. Never forget to take your umbrella! Believe me! It is true when they say that in Melbourne, you can have four different seasons in one day.

I have really enjoyed the experience of meeting new people from different backgrounds and the opportunity to forget about the stress of the big and busy cities like Lima (my home town). I have also enjoyed days out for a barbecue in front of the Yarra River. I have had fun at events like the ballet, outdoor concerts and festivals. Many of them are even free!

I was surprised by Melbourne 's weather. I came in summer and it was rainy, windy and stormy. The next day we had a 35 degree day. I just couldn't believe such a change in weather conditions!

I will take home memories of all the good people I have met, my classmates and teachers and the great times we've spent together (some of those times were stressful because of the exams, but that is part of what it makes the experience interesting). I will also take memories of all the nice places we visited during our holidays - Apollo Bay, Geelong and Ballarat. I still want to do some more traveling around Australia.

All the teachers and staff at my university have been great. They are always available to help us whenever we need them. Even though the university is very competitive because everybody wants to get the best result possible, the environment is still very friendly among the students.

When I first arrived in Australia, I lived in a home stay with a lovely Australian lady close to university. I enjoyed it very much. Now I share a house with my boyfriend but I still visit the lady every now and then to have a cup of tea and a chat.

Studying in Melbourne compared to my home country of Peru is very different. Here, the standard is very high and very demanding, because the study terms are shorter. You really need to be focused, involved and do the work to obtain results. The availability of lots of materials and access to many of the university facilities through the web is very helpful. In that way, you can always work from home anytime you want, which is a great advantage. It is also fun to study with students from different countries with different customs.

I use university facilities including the library and sometimes the kitchen. My university now has an agreement with the local swimming pool so Swinburne students can enjoy swimming there as well.

I have spent some of my leisure time watching the local Australian football. Melbournians call it ‘footy'. I have become a footy fan. I go to the stadium during the season. I love it. I also do a lot of cycling and try to play sport.

I have traveled a little outside of Melbourne but not much because when I am not studying, I try to work a little to save some money for my expenses. I have been to Williamstown, Apollo Bay, Lakes Entrance, Geelong and Ballarat. I want to go to North Queensland and Sydney next year.

My advice to new students is come with an open mind and try to enjoy every minute of the experience. Make friends, study hard and try to balance your studies with some entertainment. There will be some times when you feel that it is too much, especially because your family is not here to support you, but focus on your objective and you will succeed.

Plan your trip before hand, in regards to accommodation. In my case, I arranged accommodation before coming and Swinburne arranged somebody to pick me up at the airport which was really helpful. Finally, enjoy your stay here!

Next year, I plan to apply all the knowledge and life experiences I have obtained in my new job and life. I have already got a work experience placement in an accounting firm for the summer break and I can't wait to start.