“When people hear I’m studying Medical Sciences, they always think that I want to become a doctor,” says Tiffany Sia.

“I could become one if I wanted to be in the future, but my current goal is to understand the human brain down to the neuron. Ultimately I want to work towards creating cures for diseases such as cancer.”

The Philippines native says Australia is a great place to be for students interested in medical research.

“Australia is a country full of potential and this is definitely where I want to be,” she says. “I’m involved with Cancer Council Australia, as well as being up-to-date with the latest medical technology advancements.”

Tiffany says her learning experience at Macquarie is greatly enhanced by the University’s billion-dollar investment in infrastructure and facilities, including the use of information technology to supplement face-to-face teaching or to allow her to catch up with a video lecture.

“The way the classes here at Macquarie are very high-tech,” Tiffany notes. “Back in the Philippines lectures were a must – missing a lecture meant being behind in the course.”

“I also I think the tutorials that the Australian system offers are brilliant,” she adds. “It’s an opportunity to ask questions and discuss the topic at hand without interrupting a lecture.”

“In the Philippines system there was a lot to take in, in less time and without the proper facilities/professors to guide us to the right path. The style of teaching here in Australia is more free and supportive. Here I learn because I want to.”

Having been attracted to Macquarie for its well-known support for international students, Tiffany says she is enjoying the challenge of living away from home, with the support of the University behind her all the way.

“Macquarie is the most supportive university I’ve ever been with,” she notes. “There are so many programs and support services for students here that it feels like home.”

“As an international student in an entirely different country, there’s still that safe feeling that you are always in good hands – education and lifestyle wise.”

Though she talks to her parents every week on Skype, Tiffany is relishing in her independence and new-found knowledge.

“I feel that I am growing and learning with each new task I do, and that’s the biggest difference for me.”

Students in the Bachelor of Medical Sciences study a range of sciences underpinning research in medical areas before specialising in Biomedical, Medicinal Chemistry or Psychomedical Sciences.