Finish Year 12. Move to the city. Go to university. Start a career. For many young people living in regional and rural areas, moving to the city might be a key step on their to-do lists. However, it’s not necessarily the only option – nor is it always the best. In fact, living – and studying – in regional Australia can offer plenty of unexpected benefits.
When Josh Kable moved to Melbourne to study at university, he realised it wasn’t quite the right fit. After a year, he returned to his hometown in regional Victoria, enrolled in a Bachelor of Education (K-12) at Charles Sturt University (Albury-Wodonga campus) and hasn’t looked back.
Now working in a leadership teaching position and enjoying time with his wife and two young children, Josh says he loved studying in regional Australia during university. And with benefits like a more relaxed lifestyle, lower cost of living and exciting work opportunities, we’re not surprised!
The benefits of studying in regional Australia
A more relaxed lifestyle
“Moving from Mount Beauty to Melbourne was a big change. Everything was unfamiliar and so much busier. The roads, uni, work. It was a lot to get used to.”
Understandably, not everyone enjoys the faster pace of life in the city. In a regional town, the vibe is often slower and more relaxed. There are generally less cars on the road, more green spaces and fewer people. And yet, you can still find vibrant restaurants and cafes, live music events and plenty of opportunities to meet new people. Some might say you can get the best of both worlds!
Lower cost of living
Living in the city can be financially challenging, even when you make a budget (and stick to it!).
“I spent most of my gap year working and saving money, but the cost of living in Melbourne was high and the nest egg I had when I started uni disappeared fast. It was an ongoing challenge to earn enough money while studying full-time.”
When Josh moved back to his hometown, he found it much easier to save money. His expenses were lower, and studying with Charles Sturt gave him more flexibility to work. And that meant – hooray – more money.
“It was great doing some study online because I could fit my studies around work. In my final year, I was able to do some CRT (Casual Relief Teaching), so I was earning money and getting good experience for my career.”
Greater connection with family, friends and community
When you leave your hometown, it can sometimes be a lonely experience – even when you move to a busy city filled with people. Developing new relationships takes time. And when you’re studying and working, time isn’t always easy to find.
Josh enjoyed moving back to his hometown because he was able to spend more time with family, reconnect with friends and join the local football team. Little did he know, Josh would also meet his future wife shortly after moving back home.
It’s beneficial for your mental and physical health to build strong social connections. Do your best to stay in touch with your loved ones and make new friends. Play a team sport. Attend community events. If you’re feeling stuck, reach out to our friendly support services team for guidance and helpful resources.
More time for studying
City living can be a huge adjustment, especially if you’re living out of home for the first time. It often takes time to become established in a new environment and when you throw in a new job and a heavy study load, it can quickly become overwhelming.
Josh said it could be challenging to study while juggling a long commute to both work and university, new friendships, settling into the city football team, and travelling home to visit family and friends.
When Josh moved back to his hometown, he found it easier to study because he had more time and the flexibility to complete some of his course online.
Work opportunities
As part of his studies at Charles Sturt, Josh completed work placement at a school – and he was thrilled when they offered him ongoing work. As soon as he finished studying, he found full-time employment and after two years of teaching, was offered a leadership position.
“There are so many jobs available here, as well as professional development opportunities. And thanks to my placement, I graduated with good connections and opportunities to start my career on the right foot.”
Through work-integrated learning, our students gain practical skills while they study so they can enter the workforce feeling prepared. We’re excited to provide work-integrated learning opportunities for students in a variety of industries, including agriculture and environment, education, veterinary sciences, information technology, social work, and more. A degree and real-world experience? Maybe that’s why employers love graduates from regional universities!
Keen to take advantage of the benefits of studying in regional Australia?
If you’re based in regional Australia, moving to the city isn’t your only option for further study! Check out our regional study locations or consider learning online.
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