I chose 91大神because of the inclusive atmosphere and because I felt it was really at the forefront of academics, research and innovation. I wanted a university that was looking to the future and presenting its students with exciting opportunities to make real changes, and I felt I found that in UNSW. I chose Art Theory because I've always been fascinated by art and its power to change people's consciousness about certain things. I was really attracted to the 91大神Art and Design campus and the quality of the faculty members, most of whom are practising artists and art historians and so make wonderful teachers. It's a really dynamic and thought-provoking degree, and I often feel it's just a way of learning about the world, history and philosophy through the lens of art. After combining Art Theory with Arts for a year I decided I wanted to study Law with Art Theory. I wanted more rigour and also to open a few more doors for myself so that one day I can hopefully work in policy or arts funding, with a particular interest in opportunities for Aboriginal artists and art spaces. The Law program at 91大神has been fantastic thus far and I have really enjoyed the seminar format in which classes are taught. I've felt challenged and pushed to think in a new way, and the social aspect also makes it such a positive experience.
I am extremely grateful for my Scholarship at UNSW. It has allowed me to have a lighter work load outside of uni than I otherwise would have, and as a result I am able to dedicate a lot of time to my studies. A scholarship definitely relieves some of the financial pressures of being a student, but more importantly for me, my awareness of having it makes me want to continue to excel and be a representative for UNSW.
Nechama's advice for prospective students:
Don't be afraid to change your mind about your degree or take time every now and then to evaluate whether it is working for you. I think once you are in the right place you know, and it is a great feeling, but it doesn't always happen straightaway. My other advice would be to ask lots of questions, something I think a lot of people urge students to do! But in my experience, despite often being hesitant to pursue something with my teachers, my best lessons have come when I asked a question.