Top students aim to strengthen Australia’s place in Asia Pacific

Three University of Adelaide students are heading to Asia as this year’s Westpac Asian Exchange Scholars.

Alicia Turner plans to attend Hosei University, Japan; Gabriella Roy is heading to the National University of Singapore, and Madison Anning will study at Yonsei University, South Korea.

Valued at $12,250 each, the scholarships give the undergraduates the chance to spend up to two semesters in Asia, as well as connecting them to a network of individuals who share their passion and drive to strengthen Australia’s place in the Asia Pacific region.

Madison is in her third year of a Bachelor of International Relations and Bachelor of Arts.

“I have long been an avid language learner with particular interests in Mandarin and Korean. This has naturally extended into a passion for Asian culture, society and history more broadly. I enjoy exploring these topics through reading, travelling and artistic pursuits such as painting and photography,” she said.

“I believe that breaking cultural barriers in this way would be to the benefit of cross-cultural endeavours in all sectors and may transform our differences into opportunities.”Madison Anning

“I have also gained a deep appreciation for global diversity and how it influences our everyday interactions here in Australia.

“My hope is to foster greater intercultural understanding amongst the public by sparking others’ curiosity in Asian language and culture as my area of interest.

“I believe that breaking cultural barriers in this way would be to the benefit of cross-cultural endeavours in all sectors and may transform our differences into opportunities.”

In addition to financial support, the students will undertake a transformative leadership development program in Asia to help develop their cultural competency and connections in the region.

Gabriella is studying for a Bachelor of Media and Bachelor of Law.

“I'm passionate about making a positive difference in the world, so I volunteer for non-profit organisations that enable me to engage in a variety of cultures and learn how to lead people in creating effective change.

“I am currently a fourth-year law and media student at the University of Adelaide, and I am excited for the opportunities that will arise from this degree, particularly in using my legal skills for the development of international human rights.

“Aside from studying, I am excited for volunteering and clerking opportunities in Singapore because I will learn how a different legal system operates in an international context and I will be able to contribute to an international community in a beneficial way.”

Westpac Asian Exchange scholars, who are likely to be the next generation of leaders in their chosen fields, often forge long-lasting and meaningful relationships with their Asian counterparts.

“I have a deep appreciation for languages, particularly the Japanese language and culture, and studied it all throughout my high schooling,” said Alicia, who is studying for a Bachelor of Arts (Advanced).

“It was this love that led me to pursue a degree where I would study International Relations to learn more about the societies and histories of the various countries around the world whose cultures I am interested in, and how tools of foreign policy have shaped the trajectories of those countries.

“I hope to use this exchange experience to expand my knowledge of Japanese domestic politics and come to understand their perspective on foreign affairs. In the future, I aspire to harness this understanding of the interests of both parties to contribute to the flourishing of Australian-Japanese relations.”

Travel restrictions permitting, the students will head to Asia in July 2022.