By Janelle Tan - Malaysia, 27 August, 2025
Hi, I’m Janelle, and I transitioned to QUT from Taylor's University in Malaysia. Thanks to the credit I received, the move felt really smooth, and it didn’t feel like I was starting all over again. Instead, I had a sense of continuity in my studies, which made settling in at QUT so much easier.
Studying at QUT as a Taylor University student
I chose to study at QUT because of the university’s strong reputation in the field of communication. I was really drawn to how the Bachelor of Communication course blends theory with practical application. QUT stood out to me as a university that not only prepares you academically but also helps you develop the professional skills and confidence needed to succeed in the industry.
While the structure at QUT is a bit different, I quickly adjusted thanks to the solid foundation I had from Taylor’s. Being recognised for my prior learning made a big difference, it saved time, reduced my study load, and allowed me to focus on more advanced units that built on what I’d already learned. It also boosted my confidence, knowing that my previous efforts were acknowledged and valued. I was able to build on fundamental skills I developed at Taylor’s, such as academic writing, critical thinking, and basic media knowledge, which helped me grasp the course content at QUT more easily. From there, QUT took it further by encouraging more practical, real-world applications of those skills, especially in the context of Public Relations. I feel that both institutions complemented each other well in shaping my learning journey.
Why I decided to study Communication
I’ve found the Bachelor of Communication course incredibly useful in developing both my critical thinking and practical communication skills. One of my favourite aspects has been learning how to craft communication strategies and crisis responses, as these are essential in public relations and frequently applied in real-life scenarios. The group projects have been challenging but rewarding, helping me strengthen my teamwork, time management, and problem-solving abilities.
How the scholarship helped me thrive
I’m fortunate to be a recipient of the International Merit Scholarship. It’s been incredibly helpful, both financially and personally. Financially, it eased the burden of tuition fees and allowed me to focus more on my studies without the stress of needing part-time work. Beyond that, receiving the scholarship gave me a real sense of encouragement. It affirmed my academic efforts and motivated me to keep pushing myself. It helped me feel supported and confident as I navigate my university journey at QUT.
Feeling supported
I’ve found QUT’s support services to be incredibly helpful and accessible, especially as an international student. Adjusting to a new country and academic system can feel overwhelming at times, but the International Student Support team made a real difference in helping me settle in. They guided me through things like visa queries, understanding the enrolment process, and adjusting to life in Brisbane.
Studying in Brisbane
I chose to study in Brisbane because it offers the perfect balance of quality education and lifestyle. It’s a vibrant, multicultural city with a friendly atmosphere, which makes it easier to adapt, especially as an international student. The public transport is convenient, the weather is warm most of the year, and there are so many beautiful places to explore, like South Bank, Mount Coot-Tha, and the riverside walkways. It truly feels like a city where you can enjoy both your studies and your life outside of university.
Final advice
I definitely recommend QUT to others. What I appreciate most is how supportive the learning environment is, from helpful lecturers to student services that really care about your well-being and success. The campus facilities are modern, and being located in the heart of Brisbane makes it easy to stay connected and involved. Overall, QUT has given me the confidence, experience, and knowledge to move forward in my career, and I think that’s something every student hopes for in a university.
