Moving from the Philippines to Australia to pursue postgraduate studies was more than just an academic decision for Paltiel. Studying a Master of Leadership and Management in Healthcare at Australian Catholic University (ACU) in Sydney has helped him grow professionally, personally, and as a future leader in healthcare.

From adapting to Australian culture to applying leadership lessons directly into his workplace, Paltiel shares what it’s really like to study at ACU as an international student.

Why Study a Master of Leadership and Management in Healthcare at ACU Sydney

For Paltiel, studying healthcare leadership at ACU provided an opportunity to gain practical knowledge while developing critical thinking and management skills in a supportive classroom environment.

“We do activities that involve the use of critical thinking skills as future managers in healthcare.”

“The instructors are very helpful in terms of guiding us and teaching us the technicalities of the broader perspective of the management and leadership in healthcare.”

The program also exposed him to real healthcare challenges happening within Australia.

“We're able to expose to current cases that actually tackle the Australian healthcare system.”

What Is It Like Living in Sydney as an International Student

Although Paltiel had travelled across Asia before moving to Australia, Sydney still left a strong impression on him once he fully immersed himself in the local culture.

“When I stepped into Australia at first, to be honest, it felt like I was in the Philippines, but the moment I engaged myself, indulged myself in the culture with the Australian culture, I was mesmerized.”

“I was like, this is the first world country that I have been longing to experience.”

View of the Harbour Bridge in Sydney.

Australian Culture and Coffee Shop Lifestyle in Sydney

One of the things that surprised Paltiel most was Australia’s café culture and the way locals support small businesses.

“Lots of coffee shops and people in Australia. I'm getting coffees from the local shops so they're not patronizing other brands from other countries, they're getting in touch with the local products.”

For him, these everyday experiences became part of what made living in Sydney enjoyable and welcoming.

What is the study-work life balance like at ACU Sydney

One of the biggest differences Paltiel noticed compared to studying in the Philippines was the balance between university, work, and personal life.

“Life is actually perfect. In comparison to my unique experience back in the Philippines, we have a different educational system.”

“University life is not really hectic, but it's all up to you to do the assessment in real time, and you do it in a time.”

This flexibility allowed him to maintain a healthier lifestyle while continuing his studies.

Sydney's skyline is always breathtaking.

Support for International Students at Australian Catholic University

Having access to academic support and digital learning tools helped Paltiel adjust to postgraduate study in Australia.

“My instructors are lovely and very gracious enough to help us. Whenever we have assessment questions.”

Although the transition was challenging at first, he eventually adapted to the academic system.

“I'm really good at it now. But in the beginning, when I started to do Masters, it was really difficult.”

“But after the adjustment period, it was just easy, you can even just do it like your eyes are closed.”

How Studying Healthcare Leadership at ACU Helped Career Growth

One of the most meaningful parts of the program for Paltiel has been applying what he learns directly to his professional life.

“Every time there's a topic related to managing people. I always apply it to my staff, so I'm hitting two birds in one stone.”

“That makes the job easier for me. At the same time, I was able to manage my time wisely.”

The program also transformed how he saw himself as a leader.

“I am very proud of myself as I see my growth. I was just a follower back before I started this, this, this, this program.”

“But right after studying, starting to study management and leadership in healthcare, it opens my mind.”

His confidence eventually led to career progression.

“That's the reason why I got promoted to supervisor. I'm really proud of honestly, because I worked hard for that one.”

Student Life in Sydney Beaches, Parks and Lifestyle

Outside of university and work, Paltiel enjoys spending time outdoors and exploring Sydney’s beaches and parks.

“My favorite part is one in the Watsons Bay area. There are a lot of beaches in the eastern suburb. It's really good sunlight. Water is actually serene and crystal clear.”

Nature became an important part of maintaining balance during postgraduate study.

“I always go to parks. There are a lot of massive gardens where you can see birds, different kinds of birds, migratory birds, and you can also see flowers as well at the same time.”

“It's actually therapeutic for me.”

Why International Students Choose ACU Sydney

For Paltiel, one of the strongest parts of studying at ACU has been the sense of community and belonging.

“With ACU, I was able to build a community with my friends, which is actually good from my own college.”

He believes ACU creates an environment where international students can feel supported from the beginning.

“We got very helpful communities. We got volunteers during your orientation days, and we got a church, the chapel that you can just stay in and pray.”

Australian Catholic University

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