Western TikTok icon helping fellow students settle into university life
For newly appointed International Student Ambassador, Nisal Keembiyage, moving to Australia to study at Western Sydney University has been a life changing journey that has allowed him to pursue academic and personal interests.
From coaching badminton, to creating content for student publication W’SUP, to becoming a viral TikTok icon on campus as one of the University’s ‘unhinged’ social media content creators, Nisal has forged a thriving community driven journey at Western since arriving from Sri Lanka.
As a second year Bachelor of Medical Science student, Nisal says living and studying in Australia is a thrilling experience that he is passionate about sharing with others to help guide and welcome fellow new students starting out on their own journeys at Western.
“Moving to a different country has been nothing short of an amazing anxiety filled, exciting, stressful joyride for me. While the independence is quite refreshing, I know all too well the mixed emotions that come with moving to Australia and starting a whole new chapter in life,” said Nisal.
“From even the simple things like ‘how do I make edible food?’ to ‘where do I find a suitable job opportunity?’, it’s all definitely a learning experience. I'm looking forward to assisting my fellow international students through the process of adjusting, learning, and participating to have their best experience at Western Sydney University.”
Nisal is dedicated to his studies in anatomy, physiology, and biomedical science, and is particularly passionate about studying neurodegenerative diseases and working in the neuroscience laboratories at Western Sydney University.
Since coming to Australia in March 2022, Nisal says he has been presented with varied opportunities and experiences to try new things and follow his passions, allowing him to explore and develop not only his academic interests, but also his personal talents and skillsets.
“The great thing about Australia is the endless opportunities that it provides. I’ve learnt to focus more on doing and trying different things rather than just having a singular goal of a person I want to become,” said Nisal.
“When I first arrived, I had a clear single goal to just get my bachelor’s degree but having lived here for a year I’ve gained so many great experiences in many different fields – I’ve wanted to try stand-up comedy, maybe become a host on a late-night show, build a YouTube audience, write a book, build a business – and so much more. The phrase ‘life’s a journey’ truly has new meaning to me now.”
As a student content creator with the University’s social media team, Nisal is regularly engaging with fellow students delivering relatable and educational content that showcases everyday university life at Western.
“We are our authentic selves online and we truly enjoy going to university here at Western. As a student, we all want to be in an environment which is fun, stress free and inclusive, which I think is what Western is all about,” said Nisal.
“I’m extremely excited to be an International Student Ambassador representing Sri Lanka at Western Sydney University. Apart from the amazing co-workers I get to work with, I am looking forward to providing my unique insight and experiences at Western to assist all international students with their questions, queries, and concerns.
“Western Sydney University is a great place to explore your interests, pursue your dreams, and be part of an ongoing movement to change the world for the better. You’ll get the opportunity to truly explore yourself and your interests, so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.”
To find out more about student life at Western Sydney University and chat with Student Ambassador Nisal, click here.
ENDS
1 November 2023
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