A study in attraction
Deakin’s growing global appeal
MORE international students are moving to study at Geelong’s Deakin University than ever before.
New data has revealed the number of international students studying at Deakin’s Geelong waterfront and Waurn Ponds campuses increased by more than 20 per cent last year.
In 2016 there were 1965 international students studying at Deakin in Geelong, but that number soared to 2527 at the end of last year.
A Deakin University spokeswoman said the institution was continuing to see strong growth in international student numbers this year.
French national Herve Fernandez, 24, moved from France to Australia five years ago and is in his final year of a criminology degree at Deakin Geelong. The former electrician opted to study in Australia after spending some time in the country and enjoying its “relaxed culture”.
Research by Universities Australia shows growth in international student numbers is not restricted to Deakin.
In 2016 Australia welcomed 624,000 international students, representing 194 nationalities.
Universities Australia chief executive Belinda Robinson said the fact that so many international students elected to study here was testament to the quality of our higher education system.
“They’re choosing to come to Australia in record numbers for a world-class higher education, the lifestyle, and our safe and welcoming communities,” Ms Robinson said.
“This is something about which all Australians can be proud.
“Australia’s international education offerings started out in the 1950s as essentially a small-scale international friendship program.
“Now it’s grown to be our nation’s third largest export sector and it is incredibly important to our diplomatic, political, trade and business connections around the world.”
Mr Fernandez said Australia’s style of education was more student-driven and provided more freedom than universities in France.
“Here, you can decide what you want to do and study," Mr Fernandez said. “Life here is also different. People are more relaxed, less selfish and don’t complain as much.”
Mr Fernandez, who hopes to receive permanent residency, will work as an electrician after graduating and will continue to practice speaking English with his girlfriend.