From football fields to the classrooms of Deakin University, Australia

Indian Express

a day ago

— Anushka Samuel
My journey to Australia's Deakin University began long before I took the flight to Australia. It was nurtured on football fields, during years of representing India at the national and international tournaments. My passion for sports guided every decision I made, and it eventually led me to explore ways I could stay connected to football off the field. That was when I discovered the Master of Business (Sport Management) programme at Deakin University.
I completed my Class 12 in 2018 from Modern School, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi, with a specialisation in the Commerce stream. Thereafter, I pursued my undergraduate degree at Jesus and Mary College, Delhi University, graduating in 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Entrepreneurship.
My decision to study in Australia was not just about a degree; it was about immersing myself in a sporting culture that breathes opportunity. Melbourne, the sports capital of Australia, hosts the AFL, cricket, basketball, netball, the Australian Open, the Grand Prix, and the A-League.
Deakin's strong industry partnerships, research-based curriculum, and opportunities for hands-on experience made it the ideal choice to enhance my skills and transition from athlete to sports management professional. Moreover, my support circle — friends from the Indian sports circuit who had studied at Deakin — highly recommended it, further solidifying my decision.
The admission process to study in Australia was relatively straightforward, thanks to the guidance from IDP Nehru Place, an education consultancy. They helped me streamline my documentation and meet all necessary requirements.
– Academic records: Class 12 marksheet, semester-wise transcripts, and UG degree certificate.
– Proof of extracurricular and professional achievements (especially in sports).
– IELTS score (minimum average of 7).
– Statement of Purpose (SOP) tailored to the Australian Embassy.
– Financial documents: parents' bank statements, employment details, and loan documents (if applicable).
– Documentation covering work experience to bridge any academic gap.
The consultancy support made the application process structured and stress-free, allowing me to focus on my transition from athlete to student.
I also applied for and received an academic scholarship offering a 20 per cent tuition fee reduction, based on my postgraduate academic performance. Deakin University offers this standard scholarship to meritorious students. There is also the Vice Chancellor's Excellence Scholarship, which offers up to 100 per cent funding. However, it has a highly competitive selection process with limited recipients each year. I did not apply for a loan, as my parents had proactively saved for my postgraduate studies in Australia. Their financial planning ensured a smooth transition without the need for additional financial support.
Landing in Australia was a whirlwind of emotions — exciting yet slightly overwhelming. The first week was filled with orientation activities at the university, which were informative and structured. The sessions covered course structure, assessments, university clubs, and support systems, creating a welcoming environment for international students.
Accommodation was initially a challenge to secure remotely. While most students opt for shared housing to reduce costs, I chose a single occupancy setup for privacy and comfort, though this did come with a higher cost. Fortunately, having friends and family in Melbourne helped me settle in faster, making the transition smoother.
Thanks to my international football experience, I didn't experience major culture shock. However, managing everyday tasks like cooking, budgeting, and commuting was a gradual learning curve. One moment that stood out was a local woman who, seeing me struggle with my bags at a grocery store, not only helped me carry them to my tram stop but also shared tips on local stores and cafés. These small gestures made the city feel like home.
The academic environment in Australia is far more concept-driven and practical. There's a strong emphasis on independent research, presentations, and group work. Weekly assignments, often two per week, keep students engaged, making time management a crucial skill. While my UG education provided a solid foundation, studying abroad helped me evolve into a more independent, critical thinker. The system encourages innovation over rote memorisation, preparing students for real-world challenges. Additionally, at Deakin, professors genuinely care about students' growth. My mentor, Scott Field, has played a crucial role in shaping my professional path, offering guidance on career development and networking in the sports industry.
To support myself financially and stay connected to my passion, I coach U-15 girls at Eastern Lions Soccer Club three times a week. I work around five hours per week, earning between $25 and $40 per hour, depending on the session. Interestingly, coaching was never part of my initial plan. However, after being approached by a supervisor from a local club, I decided to give it a try. I soon realised how fulfilling it was to guide young athletes and bring structure to their training. Many of the girls had never followed structured warm-ups or cooldowns before, something I immediately implemented based on my playing experience. This unexpected opportunity has given me immense satisfaction by contributing to grassroots sports development in Australia.
Studying abroad has transformed the way I approach life. It has taught me to be self-reliant, resilient, and disciplined, especially in managing time and finances. Balancing coursework, part-time work, and personal responsibilities has helped me develop a strong sense of accountability. People back home now see me through a different lens — respecting the effort it takes to live and thrive independently in a foreign country. The experience has also deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity and broadened my worldview. My professors and colleagues at Deakin have also shown genuine curiosity about my journey in Indian football, often engaging me in discussions about what I would change if I returned home. These conversations have pushed me to reflect deeply and have made me feel seen, heard, and encouraged to share my insights.
Studying abroad is an incredible journey of self-discovery and growth. However, it is vital to do your research — choose a programme and country that align with your career aspirations and personal values. Once you're in, embrace every opportunity with an open mind and a determined heart.
Whether it is through academics, industry exposure, or unexpected opportunities like coaching, Deakin has provided me with a gateway into a field I'm passionate about. My journey from being a national footballer to stepping into sports management is just beginning, and I look forward to making a lasting impact in the industry.
(This letter is part of a series by The Indian Express where we bring to you the experiences of students at different foreign universities. From scholarships and loans to food and cultural experiences — students tell us how life is different in those countries and things they are learning other than academics)
Mridusmita Deka covers education and has worked with the Careers360 previously. She is an alumnus of Gauhati University and Dibrugarh University. ... Read More