📊💭 Volunteering with Genny Liu: Learning about economics and different attitudes towards life
As part of our LIVE in NSW Initiative, we support volunteers at the Study NSW International Student Welcome Desks at Sydney and Newcastle Airports. These students explained to us what they enjoyed most about studying in Sydney, the benefits they have experienced from volunteering and how they’ve been able to make a difference in welcoming fellow students.
Meet Genny!
Area of Study: Masters (Postgraduate) in Economics
Country of Origin: China
Institution: University of Technology Sydney
Hours Volunteered: 43
Anmol’s tip for international students
One thing I wish I had known before I came to NSW was to take advantage of opportunities. NSW schools offer international students many opportunities for networking, academic discussions, and volunteering, and taking advantage of these opportunities can enrich the study abroad experience.
“The [volunteering] role has... given me a chance to give back to the community [and] has also enriched my cultural understanding... through interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds.”
Genny Liu, Student Volunteer
Sign up to volunteerWhy did you choose to study in NSW?
I chose to study in New South Wales, specifically Sydney, for a combination of compelling reasons. Firstly, Sydney's breathtaking beauty and vibrant atmosphere captivated me. The consistently pleasant weather adds to the overall appeal, creating a conducive environment for both academic and personal pursuits.
Secondly, my decision was influenced by the academic excellence of the University of Sydney. The commitment to academic excellence, coupled with a rich history and a global network of alumni, made USYD an ideal choice for me.
What has been your favourite part of the student volunteering experience?
The multicultural environment has also allowed me to build connections with people from different backgrounds. I have gained a lot from making friends with people from different cultures, learning about their life experiences, and learning about their attitudes towards life.
How have you gotten involved in student volunteer work?
I am actively involved in volunteering through the International Students Welcome Desk at Sydney Airport. This role has provided me with a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the welfare of international students arriving in Sydney, fostering a warm and supportive environment right from their first moments in the city. It has been incredibly rewarding to witness the genuine appreciation from students who may be navigating a foreign environment for the first time.
What have you gained from your volunteering experience?
It allowed me to be part of a larger community dedicated to enhancing the overall experience of international students in New South Wales. The role has not only given me a chance to give back to the community but has also enriched my cultural understanding and interpersonal skills through interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Would you recommend volunteering to other international students?
Absolutely, I would highly recommend volunteering to other international students. My own experience as a volunteer has been incredibly rewarding, providing me with a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the community and enhance my overall university experience.
Where do you see yourself going in the future?
I envision a future where I leverage my expertise in economics, particularly focusing on data analysis and activity planning and implementation. I see myself in a position where I contribute to the intersection of economics, data analysis, and strategic planning.
If you'd like to join the International Student Welcome Desk volunteering program, sign up here.
