From the buzzy urban vibes of Darwin to the breathtaking expanse of the Australian outback, the Northern Territory (NT) is full of fun and adventure.
With so much on offer, it’s no surprise that lots of international students have made the choice to study and live in this incredible part of the world.
But how do you know what to expect when you’re moving here?
To help you find out, we spoke to Rachel Am Zarate, an international student originally from the Philippines. Rachel is currently completing her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Alana Kaye College and sat down with us to share the things she wishes she’d known before living and studying in the NT.
The weather is warm!
The one thing Rachel didn’t need to adjust to was the NT weather.
“Darwin has a tropical climate like that of the Philippines, with a wet and dry season,” she explains.
In the wet season, which lasts from November to April each year, the average temperature ranges between 24.7°C to 32°C. The dry season sees temperatures of 21.6°C to 31.8°C.
“I enjoy being in the sun, but sometimes it can get hot and humid during the wet season,” says Rachel. “I wish I had known more about this earlier so that I could have brought more comfortable sun protection items along with me.”
It has a relaxed lifestyle
When asked what she likes the most about living in the NT, Rachel can barely contain her excitement.
“The laid-back lifestyle!” she exclaims.
Before moving here, Rachel was used to hustle and bustle and always felt like she was rushing around. However, now that she’s adapted to the relaxed pace of life in Darwin, she appreciates the serenity.
“I have more time for myself to discover hobbies and develop new skills. There is no need to rush. Everything is at my own pace,” Rachel adds.
She says after a long day, she enjoys having a picnic in the park and watching the breathtaking sunset.
The education is world-class
According to Rachel, one important thing international students should know about is the quality of education offered in the NT.
The Territory is home to a number of fantastic educational institutions, including universities, vocational education and training providers and schools.
What’s more, there is a range of exciting scholarships available to overseas students. For example, the Study in Australia’s Northern Territory Scholarship program awards successful applicants up to AU $6,000 to put towards their first year’s tuition.
Study NT also offers the Student Accommodation Grant, supporting international students when they first arrive with 6 weeks of their accommodation paid for.
“I wish I had known about the scholarship opportunities before I arrived here. As an international student, it would have been a big help to start,” Rachel states.
There are lots of fun things to do
Rachel says she was surprised by the number of exciting, accessible activities on offer in her area.
“I live in Palmerston, where there are Get Active Programs that I enjoy. These programs offer a health and well-being program with various activities such as yoga, swimming, and Pilates, all for free!”
She adds that she also enjoys going along to the many personal and professional workshops and events held nearby.
“This is a great opportunity for networking and learning, especially for international students like me,” Rachel explains.
The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, hosting local and international events, festivals and performances all year round.
It can be easier to find work once you’re here
“Before I arrived here, I had already sent a lot of resumes through job portals,” Rachel mentions, “but I had no luck since they wanted someone onshore.”
Rachel states this made her concerned about how hard it might be to find work in the NT. However, once she landed in Darwin, things became much easier.
“When I arrived here, a lot of job opportunities had opened, and I was able to land a job in less than a month.”
It’s welcoming and friendly
As an international student, moving to a new city can be lonely, and it can sometimes be hard to make new friends.
However, Rachel explains that Darwin’s vibrant multicultural community has made it easy for her to settle in and feel at home.
“The community is diverse and inclusive,” she asserts. “There are numerous events and opportunities to build networks and connect with communities, including volunteering.”
When it comes to words of advice, Rachel encourages new or potential international students to take the leap and try new things.
“It’s important to not let the fear of failure prevent us from pursuing the things we enjoy. Instead, we should embrace life and all its wonders, and take advantage of the opportunities that come our way,” she says.
“Remember, you have the potential to achieve great things!”
