From Singapore to IEAA Rising Star – Varsha’s International Student Journey

When envisioning “big cities”, one rarely considers Melbourne, Australia. And yet even people from Singapore are awed – and a little apprehensive – by the enormous sprawl of this city at the mouth of the Yarra River. This was the case for Singaporean international student, Varsha Devi Balakrishnan, who chose Melbourne as the destination of choice to pursue her tertiary education. Despite the city’s enormous size and the challenges she faced as an international student, Varsha was able to overcome this to finish her studies, going on to become a student advocate of championing international student voices. Her inspiring journey is the focus for our latest edition of Student Success Stories.   

Hi Varsha. How did your journey from Singapore to Melbourne begin? 

In 2014, I was a young girl from Singapore who felt ready for something new. Life in Singapore had been comfortable, but I wanted to experience the world beyond my small city. I had always felt drawn to Australia for its culture, diversity, and reputation in education. So, when it came time to choose a university, Monash University in Melbourne stood out to me. Melbourne felt like the right place to establish myself both personally and academically, and it has since become my home away from home. The transition wasn’t always easy, but it was one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. 

Just rewinding a little, how did you first hear about IDP? 

My journey to studying abroad began with IDP, a name many international students would recognise. I attended their study abroad expo in Singapore—it was the first (and only one) I visited. It was there that I met with representatives from several universities. I didn’t know exactly what I was looking for at the time, but the conversations I had with the university representatives helped clarify my thoughts. Monash stood out to me almost immediately, and after narrowing my choices to three institutions, IDP took care of the rest. The whole process was incredibly streamlined, and I felt supported every step of the way. Their guidance helped turn my dreams of studying abroad into a reality. 

What was your experience like with the IDP counsellors in Singapore? 

The IDP counsellors in Singapore were absolutely fantastic. I visited their office several times and met with different people, and each interaction left me feeling more confident about my decisions. Their support wasn’t just limited to paperwork or applications; they provided reassurance during what could have been a very overwhelming time. Both my parents and I felt a deep sense of trust in them. Moving abroad can be daunting, but IDP made it feel manageable. They took the time to understand my personal aspirations and academic goals, which was very comforting. My family and I were navigating new territory and knowing that IDP had our back gave us peace of mind. 

Why did you choose Australia and Monash University as your destinations? 

My decision to choose Australia, and specifically Monash University, was largely based on practicality and timing. I knew I didn’t want to be too far from home, and Australia felt like the perfect balance—close enough to Singapore yet far enough for me to experience independence. Monash’s reputation was another major factor. Their strong ranking in the Arts, particularly International Relations, really appealed to me. It was important for me to choose a university where my degree would be recognised and transferable in Singapore, and Monash ticked all those boxes. 

Timing was also crucial. Monash offered a diploma pathway that allowed me to fast-track my studies. I was able to complete my first year in just six months, which meant I could start my second year in February without having to wait for the next academic year. This saved me both time and money, which was a big consideration for me and my family. I also appreciated that the diploma programme was a cost-effective option while still providing a high-quality education. 

What initially interested you in the areas of International Relations and Communications? 

Diplomacy and the power of soft diplomacy have always fascinated me. I’ve always been intrigued by the subtle nuances of how countries communicate and resolve conflicts without the use of force. International Relations, to me, was about understanding these intricate relationships and how they shape the world. Public relations and communication were also key areas that I found transferable across different sectors, which made the field even more attractive. 

What further solidified my interest was my passion for international education and advocacy. I wanted to understand not just how governments and organisations communicate on a global level, but also how this impacts individuals, particularly students like me. This blend of personal passion and academic interest laid the foundation for the work I do today, where I focus on amplifying the voices of international students.

After arriving in Australia, what was the first major “culture shock” moment you experienced? 

Melbourne is an enormous city compared to Singapore. The sheer size of it was overwhelming at first, and navigating the city felt like a never-ending challenge. In Singapore, everything is interconnected and compact, making travel convenient. But in Melbourne, the distances were much greater, and I wasn’t used to the idea of long travel times just to get from one place to another. I vividly remember the first time I tried to find my way around Melbourne—I was lost for hours! Even now, after years of living here, I still occasionally get lost in the city. My friends always joke about how terrible my sense of direction is, but it’s become part of the charm of my Melbourne story. 

How did IDP and Monash help you settle into your new life in Melbourne? 

Monash quickly became my home away from home. I spent countless hours at the Clayton campus, not just attending classes but building lasting friendships and relationships with my lecturers and tutors. The community I found there was incredibly supportive, and it made the transition to life in Australia much smoother. Monash College was a place where I felt truly at ease. It wasn’t just an academic institution for me; it was where I built friendships that still last today. My lecturers and tutors became more than just academic mentors—they became friends and confidants who helped guide me through my journey. 

IDP, on the other hand, remained a constant support throughout my time in Australia. Whenever I was confused or needed guidance on where to go or who to speak to, IDP was always there to support me. Knowing that I had a reliable support system both from IDP and Monash made settling into Melbourne a much less daunting experience. 

You enjoy cooking and camping, but what else do you enjoy doing in your spare time? 

Aside from cooking and camping, I spend a lot of my free time with my two amazing dogs, Archie and Bruno. They are both full of energy, and we often go to parks or beaches together—they never seem to get tired! Spending time with them keeps me grounded and gives me a great excuse to explore more of the outdoors. When I’m not with them, you’ll usually find me with a book. I’m an avid reader, and it’s one of my favourite ways to unwind. 

Since graduating, you’ve held several key roles in the international education sector. Why were you attracted to the Head of Student Insights and Strategy role? 

My personal experience as an international student gave me a deep understanding of the challenges students face, and I wanted to work within the sector to address those issues. I’ve always felt that students are more than just a percentage or a dollar figure—they are individuals with unique stories and needs. This belief led me to develop #TheSocialSource, a platform that merges qualitative and quantitative data to better understand student sentiment and improve decision-making within the sector. 

I’ve always been passionate about ensuring that student voices are heard, not just at the university level but also by policymakers. Working in the role of Head of Student Insights and Strategy allowed me to focus on exactly that. It’s been an incredibly fulfilling role because I get to combine data and insights with my passion for student advocacy, making a real impact on how the sector supports its students. 

When starting your international education journey, did you ever envision that one day you would actually be working in the sector? 

Honestly, no! Growing up in Singapore, I wasn’t particularly outspoken, nor did I imagine myself in leadership roles. I was more involved in sports, and my life in Singapore was fairly sheltered. But coming to Australia changed that. The experience of being an international student here helped me find my voice and pushed me to develop leadership skills. 

Monash University, along with the lecturers and tutors I met along the way, played a pivotal role in helping me discover my passion for student advocacy. Over the years, I’ve gone from grassroots involvement to representing international students on a national level. Looking back, it’s been an incredible journey of growth, and I’m so grateful for the opportunities that led me here. 

Last year, IEAA announced you as its Rising Star winner, for having “catalysed completely new ways of understanding international student sentiment.” What did this win mean for you? 

Winning the 2023 IEAA Tony Adams Rising Star Award was an incredibly proud moment for me, and now being named The PIEoneer Emerging Leader of the Year has left me truly speechless.  

These recognitions go beyond just personal milestones; they are about the impact of the work I’m passionate about - creating a bridge between students and the sector. It’s about ensuring that international students aren’t just participants in the system, but key players whose voices and contributions shape the future of education, not only in Australia but globally. These voices reflect the collective potential of international students - our resilience, drive, and the unique perspectives we bring. Often, we are underestimated, especially when it comes to opportunities after graduation, and I hope this recognition shines a light on just how much we have to offer. 

My journey mirrors the experiences of countless international students who have had to navigate new cultures, overcome challenges, and work harder to be seen. As a female international student, I’ve faced my share of hurdles, but those challenges have only strengthened my resolve. This recognition is a humbling reminder of the responsibility I carry to continue advocating for international students, to keep pushing boundaries, and to inspire others. It reinforces my belief that our voices matter, that we belong, and that we can drive meaningful change. 

The work I’ve done with #TheSocialSource is incredibly personal to me. It’s about building a platform where student voices are genuinely listened to, and where their lived experiences directly influence the decisions that shape their futures. International students bring so much more than economic contributions—we are catalysts for change, shaping industries, driving policy reforms, and enriching the communities we integrate into. Our impact reaches far beyond any one country; it transcends borders, affecting global perspectives and systems on a larger scale. 

I see myself as part of the bridge between students and the sector—working to close the gap and ensure that international students are not only included but play a central role in shaping the future of education and policy. Our contributions don’t stop at graduation; we continue to influence the world around us. My mission is to make sure that these contributions are recognised and valued in meaningful and lasting ways, ensuring a future where students’ voices drive real change. 

On a personal level, I owe so much to the people who have supported me along the way. I am deeply grateful to the mentors, colleagues, and friends. Their belief in me has encouraged me to continue advocating for students, to keep building that bridge between students and the sector, and to push for more inclusive opportunities. Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. 

What advice would you give to a student who’s looking to kickstart their international education journey? 

Embrace the ride but expect it to be bumpy at times. Studying abroad is a life-changing experience, but it’s not always going to be smooth or fun—and that’s okay. The challenges, the moments where you feel out of your depth, those are the ones that will shape you the most. There will be days when things don’t go as planned, but stick with it, because the growth you’ll experience is worth it. 

Say ‘yes’ to opportunities that come your way. Get involved, volunteer, join student groups, and engage with the community. These experiences will help you build friendships, open doors you didn’t expect, and give you a sense of belonging in a new place. Even when it feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar, stepping outside your comfort zone is where the magic happens. 

This interview was part of our ongoing series, ‘Student Success Stories’. Check out our previous entries below:

• Anika Kalalo

• Sean Fernando

• Cheshna Boolaky

• Jaspreet Gill

• Manisha Shrestha

• Sarbjeet Singh

• Ratih Arruum Listiyandini