Joining the double degree at Queensland University of Technology was one of the boldest choices I’ve made as a BINUS International student. It wasn’t just about studying in another country—it was about stepping into a new world of challenges and opportunity.

From the very first day, I knew this journey would push me to grow and test my independence while giving the kind of global experience that shapes both confidence and future possibilities.

Stepping into QUT’s Academic World

I’m Felicia Syifara Gunandar, and my first days at Queensland University of Technology were unforgettable. The classes were different from anything I had experienced before—collaborative, project-based, and built around real-world applications.

It wasn’t about memorizing theories, but about testing ideas with peers from all over the world. Working in this environment pushed me to adapt quickly, listen better, and communicate clearly. I learned to share perspectives while also respecting different ways of thinking.

Every group project felt like training for the real industry, where teamwork and problem-solving matter most. That mix of academic rigor and global perspectives made me realize why this double degree was more than just a study program—it was preparation for the future.

Community and Connection

One of the best parts of my double degree journey at QUT was the people I met. In class, I worked with students from different countries, each bringing unique ideas and cultural perspectives.

Every project felt like a lesson in collaboration across borders. At the same time, I found comfort in the Indonesian student community in Brisbane. They welcomed me warmly, invited me to gatherings, and made me feel at home even miles away.

This balance gave me both global exposure and a sense of belonging. It showed me that a true global experience isn’t about standing alone—it’s about growing through connections that continue long after graduation.

Life in Brisbane: A City that Feels Like Home

Brisbane quickly became more than just the place where I studied—it became a second home. The city felt safe, lively, and incredibly student-friendly. On weekends, I explored beaches with golden sand, walked through green parks, and discovered night markets buzzing with energy.

Cafes tucked into laneways became my favorite spots to study or just unwind with friends. Every day life also pushed me to adapt—navigating transport, trying new cuisines, and learning local customs. These small moments built resilience and cultural awareness, teaching lessons as valuable as those in classrooms.

Living abroad was not only about independence but about learning to see the world through many lenses, each shaping me into a stronger, more adaptable, and ready person for new challenges.

Growth Beyond the Classroom

My double degree journey at QUT was not only about lectures or assignments—it was about stepping far outside my comfort zone. I learned to live independently, manage my own decisions, and embrace challenges that once felt intimidating.

Along the way, I built friendships that crossed cultures and will last a lifetime. These experiences made me more confident and more open-minded, yet also more responsible in how I approach work and life. I realized that employers value exactly these qualities: adaptability, resilience, and global perspective.

The program gave me more than knowledge—it shaped me into someone prepared to stand out and contribute meaningfully in a future job market that is always changing.

Reflection and Pride

Looking back, I realize this journey was never just about earning a second degree. It was about stepping into a bigger world, learning from diverse perspectives, and pushing myself to grow into a stronger version of who I am.

Studying at QUT through BINUS International’s double degree program gave me more than academic knowledge—it reshaped how I see opportunities, challenges, and my own future. I discovered the value of independence, the power of collaboration, and the importance of resilience in every step I took.

Choosing this path was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made because it shifted my trajectory and gave me experiences I will carry for life. I feel proud, not only of what I achieved in the classroom, but also of the person I became.

For me, this double degree was more than a study option—it was a launchpad. It was #yourgatewaytoglobalexperience, opening doors and shaping my future beyond boundaries.