Studying in Australia as an International Student: Interview series
Jan 23, 2026
💡Hello there! Want to build leadership skills, support your peers, and contribute to a podcast that amplifies international student voices??
International Student Changemakers: Peer Leadership Program is starting soon!
Interested? Express your interest before March 3rd via THIS LINK!
Studying in Australia as an international student can be both exciting and overwhelming, at times.
At Shapes and Sounds, we created this video for international students from Asia who may be navigating study stress, loneliness, cultural adjustment, or mental health challenges while studying abroad.
In this video, we interviewed four Asian mental health practitioners from our Asian Mental Health Practitioner List who once studied in Australia as international students themselves. They share honestly about the challenges they faced, how those experiences impacted their wellbeing, and what helped them cope.
These aren't “perfect success stories”. Instead, they're real reflections from people who have been through the international student experience here, and understand how hard it can be.
What you’ll hear in this video
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What it was like arriving in Australia as an international student
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One challenge that deeply affected their wellbeing
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Practical ways they looked after themselves during difficult periods
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Advice they wish they could give their younger selves
If you’re currently studying in Australia, we hope this video reminds you that what you’re feeling makes sense and that support is available from people who've been through very similar experiences to you too.
Want to get involved?
If you’re an international student in Melbourne who’s passionate about mental health and wellbeing, you may also be interested in our Student Changemakers: Peer Leadership Program, where students learn how to support their peers and build confidence through leadership.
👉 Learn more here
Looking for support?
All practitioners featured in this video (Yi Tong, Natcha, Sian and Sanchana) are part of our Asian Mental Health Practitioner List: a directory of culturally responsive therapists who are passionate about supporting the Asian community.
👉 Find support here
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If this resonates, feel free to share it with someone who might need it 💛
💡For community members:
We created the "Essential Guide for Asian Australian Mental Health" by surveying over 350 Asian Australians during Covid-19 lockdowns.
Download our guide and learn about the three most pertinent areas of concern for the Asian community, with tips and strategies to support you through.
🤝For mental health service providers:
Shapes and Sounds supports mental health organisations and teams to feel confident and resourced in providing culturally-responsive care to the Asian community in Australia.
Download our information pack to learn more.