Study abroad

In July, 2011, 10 Curtin students from the Faculty of Science and Engineering spent 3 weeks in Siberia, Russia. The Inaugural International Summer School program with Tomsk State University, took students, staff and environmental experts from around the globe on a 1200km journey from Tomsk to Aktru, in the Altai Mountains. The group travelled through urban and rural areas of Western Siberia where they experienced the history, culture and incredible beauty of the land and its people. Students also had the opportunity to observe first-hand, the impacts of climate change on the natural environment around the Altai Mountains. An amazing experience was had by all.

WASM Mining Engineering student, Jack Chaston said: It was an amazing trip especially to go somewhere you wouldn't normally go. The academics on the trip were really helpful and helped explain concepts about the region to us. Jack also said: some of the surprises on the trip included: White water rafting in Siberia and walking on a glacier in shorts and Tshirt.

Scott Drummond, student in the Department of Applied Geology, spent Semester 1, 2011 in Sweden at Stockholm University. Here's what Scott had to say about his experience: I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to study for the spring semester at Stockholm University. Since arriving I have not once doubted my choice of Sweden as my host destination. Although getting off the plane with -15°C temperatures after leaving Australia's summer was a bit of a challenge. Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities, whether it be winter or summer.

Overall the experience was the ultimate for me due to the friends that I made, and the experiences that we all had together. I have made some of the best friends from all over the world. I would recommend to everyone that has the opportunity to study abroad to do so, and would not hesitate in suggesting Stockholm to be his or her choice of destination.

In November, 2011, ten engineering students ventured on a three week Energy Sustainability Study Tour to China. This mobility program, which was partially funded by the Australian Government, took the group to Beijing, Shanghai and Yichang to learn about China and some of the technologies employed in the production of clean energy. Activities included visits to a nuclear research facility, to China's largest offshore wind farm, to the most efficient coal fire plant in the world, and to the Three Gorges Dam project which is a massive hydro-electric facility. The group also enjoyed language, culture and history classes, and getting to know Chinese students through social and sports events. A wonderful time was had by all. From amazing food to amazing sights - including a visit to the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City and other historic sites.