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Stepping out of your comfort zone

As restrictions lift it might be time to start thinking about making new friends. Take it from Bryan and step out of your comfort zone!

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About the author: Bryan is a 2020 StudyAdelaide Student Ambassador. He usually spends his free time hanging out with friends and watching Netflix. He is looking forward to the winter semester break to be free from assignments and exams!


Being an international student in Adelaide was a little hard at first. With the cultural shocks, language barriers and leaving friends and family behind, it is understandable that many of us international students will face challenges while studying abroad. However, fret not, I am going to share with all of you how I overcame such challenges with one simple tip, stepping out of your comfort zone.

What I did?

Arriving in Adelaide with no friends or relatives here, I felt lost as I am someone who loves to hang out with friends. I saw it as an opportunity where I know no one and no one knows me, to step out of my comfort zone and experience a new lifestyle here in Australia. 

First, I started being active around the University by joining clubs and societies which interested me. One of the most eye-opening experiences for me was being part of the Adelaide University Malaysian Students’ Association (AUMSA). Throughout my two years on AUMSA’s board of committee, I was able to learn a lot about myself as well as important skills that are vital for a University student now and into the future when I begin my career. More importantly, I was able to connect to fellow university students and form long lasting friendships.

Why you should step out of your comfort zone…

 Growing up, I was used to being with the same comfortable group of friends. However, studying abroad has widened my view to be brave and try new things. As international students, there is plenty to experience and learn from trying out new things.

If you are not sure where to begin, start from where your interest or passion is, look for clubs/societies at your university or in your neighbourhood who represent your interests, try something like a new sport (Aussie Rules anyone?) and start from there! As the saying goes, “do not fear failure but rather fear not trying.”

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