Waleed I

• What are you studying?

  Bachelor of Architecture and Design

• Why did you choose to study in Australia?

  I felt like Australia had all the attributes i needed to thrive. It seemed like a great place for me to begin my independent life. The community also seemed very multicultural and welcoming. Along with great education, I wanted to live in a place where I felt accepted and comfortable. Australia seemed to tick both those boxes with ease and turned out to be a great choice.

• Why did you choose to study in Brisbane?

  I reviewed all the cities and felt Brisbane was best for me mainly because of its friendly aura. It was still a developing city with much progress ahead of it and this appealed to me as I wanted to be in a place that was still growing. I felt like I would then have more freedom of expression as I would have been surrounded with people just like me. Brisbane also had a lot of Muslims, which helped me stay true to my faith even if i was so many miles away from home.

• What’s your favourite thing about being a student?

  The majority of the things are very accessible for students, we have discounts and sometimes there are lot of things that you can do and enjoy for free. Everything is relatively close so I can walk everywhere or I can use the free shuttle bus of QUT or some free buses around the city.

• What’s your favourite thing to do when you’re not studying?

  Getting competitive. This could be through a fun game of ping pong, an online e-game with friends or a football / cricket match. Its a great way to take a break from academic stress and also get some healthy exercise.

• What’s your favourite thing about Iglu?

  The environment really. No matter how different you are, there will always be a group of people that you can fit into. I can message my friends at Iglu anytime and there is always something going on that I can join. I can go downstairs to study and meet various people that are fun to chat with. Maybe even have dinner together or watch a movie later on in the day. It feels like I can always keep myself occupied and I find that very satisfying.

• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

  Working on a stable job, still perusing my hobbies and enjoying my life. I don’t like to plan any more specifically than that because I realize I’m still finding my best path in life. I want to be open to all opportunities and see where each takes me. The priority for me would be to keep dreaming really. In 5 years I still want to be as adventurous as I was at 12 years old.

• What words of wisdom would you pass on to future Iglu residents?

  Just put yourself out there. Socializing can be a daunting thing especially when you’re in a foreign country so far from home. You don’t know anyone and you’re naturally afraid of speaking to others. Although that is completely understandable, raising that first hello can go such a long way. You can make friends that could be with you for the next 5-6 years of your life. The moment you find a chance, just express yourself. Let everyone know who you are and naturally you’ll find the people most similar to you. After that, have a blast. Student life only comes around so many times so you might as well make the most of it.