Studying a Bachelor of Computer Science at ACU Sydney as an International Student

For Samiha from Bangladesh, moving to Australia to study a Bachelor of Computer Science at Australian Catholic University was not only about earning a degree. It was about stepping outside her comfort zone, meeting new people and experiencing a completely different way of life in Sydney.

From travelling across the Harbour Bridge every day to discussing “the meaning of life” in class, her experience at ACU Sydney has already become far more memorable than she expected.

Why Study Computer Science at ACU Sydney?

One of the things that stood out most to Samiha about ACU’s Bachelor of Computer Science was how different the curriculum felt compared to other universities. She explains that the course does not only focus on technical programming skills, but also on teaching students how to use technology ethically within society.

“They are trying to implement ethical mindset in each student in ACU.”

Samiha says she was surprised when she first saw a unit connected to ethics in her course. Initially, she questioned how it related to becoming a programmer, but after exploring the subject further, she realised how relevant it is in today’s world.

For Samiha, this broader perspective made the degree feel more meaningful than simply learning how to code.

What Is It Like to Study Computer Science at ACU?

Samiha enjoying her interview in front of the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Starting university in another country can feel intimidating, especially when English is not your first language. Samiha admits she was nervous before classes started, but those fears quickly faded after meeting students and staff on campus.

“At first I was a bit scared. But after I went to ACU and met the people there, they were very friendly.”

As someone who describes herself as introverted, Samiha made a promise to herself after arriving in Sydney that she would push herself to become more social and confident.

“When I first went to ACU, my first target was I will talk to everybody in the room.”

She challenged herself to speak to people regardless of language barriers or nerves, focusing on meeting new people and becoming more open.

“I was like, I will talk and break the silence, break the ice.”

What Classes Are Included in the Bachelor of Computer Science at ACU?

One of the classes that surprised Samiha most was a first-year core subject called “Being Human.” Initially, she was unsure what the class would involve.

“I had mixed feelings about the course because what they're going to teach me in being human, I'm already a human.”

However, after attending the lesson, her perspective changed completely. The class focused on discussing the meaning of life and hearing different viewpoints from students in the room.

For Samiha, the discussion became one of the most memorable parts of her university experience so far.

“That two hour session was very helpful. It changed a lot of perspective of my life.”

Alongside these core subjects, Samiha is also excited about the more technical side of the degree, including programming, information technology and maths.

Student Life in Sydney for International Students

Sydney Harbour with a view of the Opera House.

Outside university, Samiha has been enjoying exploring Sydney and experiencing famous Australian landmarks in real life. One of her favourite daily moments is travelling across the Harbour Bridge by train on the way to campus.

“The view is so outstanding. Like, you can just live the moment like that. That's the meaning of life for me, actually.”

Although she had seen the Harbour Bridge and Opera House many times online, experiencing them in person felt completely different.

Samiha also encourages future international students to explore the city, try different foods and make new friends along the way.

“The best way to make a friend is to explore new places together and eat new foods.”

Living in Australia as a Student from Bangladesh

Sydney harbour with the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background.

Before moving to Australia, Samiha worried about language barriers, adapting to a new culture and even whether she would be able to find food spicy enough for her tastes.

But after arriving in Sydney, she quickly settled into life in Australia and realised the transition was easier than expected.

“When I came here, I just adopted things and I didn't feel that much difference.”

For Samiha, studying abroad has become much more than an academic experience. It has helped her become more confident, more open to new experiences and more excited about the future.