How global experiences are opening doors for RMIT students

Aditi, a Bachelor of International Studies student, is preparing to undertake exchange at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid in Semester 2, 2026, as the second recipient of the Saskia Loer Hansen Memorial Scholarship.

The scholarship helps make overseas study more accessible by reducing some of the financial barriers associated with global learning.

For Aditi, receiving the scholarship has helped turn a long-held goal into a real opportunity.

“Studying abroad has been a dream of mine for a long time, and this scholarship is what makes it possible. It takes a huge amount of the financial pressure off, but honestly, the bigger thing is the confidence it gives me, knowing I have this support behind me makes me feel so much more prepared to dive into life in Madrid and make the most of every moment there.”

Currently studying Spanish Level 3, Aditi chose Universidad Carlos III de Madrid because it brings together her academic interests, language goals and connection to the city.

Aditi hopes studying in Madrid will help her build confidence in Spanish, create global connections and bring new perspectives back to RMIT.

“I want to come back speaking Spanish with real confidence, having pushed myself well outside my comfort zone. Academically and professionally, I want to represent RMIT well and build genuine connections with people from all over the world.”

Louise, a Bachelor of Professional Communication student, was the inaugural recipient of the scholarship and undertook exchange at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.

Now that she has completed her exchange, Louise said the experience had changed how she thinks about her studies, future goals and what she can pursue.

“It showed me that things which once felt out of reach are actually possible if you go after them. I had so many pinch-me moments, and since coming home it's taught me to dream bigger and back myself more.”

For Louise, the energy of New York and the confidence of the people around her made a lasting impression.

“The way people live so freely and without fear of judgement. New Yorkers really do just express themselves and go after what they want, and being surrounded by that energy pushed me to get up every day and make the most of it...”

Louise's advice to students considering Study Overseas is simple.

Just go. Decide you're doing it and make it work. It might be hard, scary and expensive, but I'd do it all again in a heartbeat. I'd give anything to relive just one day there, it's an experience that stays with you forever.

While the Saskia Loer Hansen Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually, RMIT students can explore a range of Study Overseas opportunities and financial assistance options, including scholarships and grants that may help make overseas study more accessible.

If you are thinking about studying overseas, start exploring your options early. You can find information about available programs, eligibility, funding and key dates through RMIT’s Study Overseas webpages.