Making the move from to Perth from Malaysia, Chantal pursued her dream of working with animals and enrolled in Murdoch's prestigious Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program.
For international student Chantal Ng Xier Yie, choosing veterinary science at Murdoch University was an obvious choice.
"I have always loved working with animals, and I have a strong sense of justice.
"Murdoch offers a good DVM program and is closest from my home country, Malaysia."
Murdoch's five-year combined BSc and DVM degree enables you to study a Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Biology) and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in just five years of full-time study. As the DVM is a master’s level degree, you’ll have the opportunity to not only gain clinical and practical skills, but also to complete a small research project of your choice.
For Chantal, our world-class facilities were also a major drawcard. Not only is Murdoch the only city-based University in Australia with a fully operation on-campus farm, we also have on-campus Animal Hospital, which includes a general veterinary practice, emergency centre, and equine centre.
That means by choosing Murdoch University, you could be attending a lecture one lesson, and on our farm examining some of our horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and alpacas the next.
As part of your study, you’ll complete training in surgery, medicine, diagnostic imaging, anaesthesia and other disciplines, plus field visits with experienced clinical academics to treat livestock and horses.
"I like the opportunities, resources and the facilities that Murdoch offers. It means we get to learn a lot through hands on practical classes."
Arriving in Perth
Moving overseas is a thrilling yet daunting step for all international students, and Chantal was no exception.
"I love experiencing all sorts of adventures and embracing life in general.
"Perth has a lot to offer! With many hidden gems, from different suburbs with their own special perks, including morning markets, to road trips away from Perth, everything is very different whether you're going north, down south or over east."
Just a three-hour drive south from Perth, Margaret River is the perfect weekend destination for international students. With world-class wineries, stunning beaches, and pristine forests, it's no surprise the region was Lonely Planet’s number one destination in the Asia Pacific.
Murdoch was also instrumental in Chantal finding her footing in her new home. Our student support services provide new and current international students with everything you need to help make your studies a success, including information about your course, visa requirements, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), enrolment, and the range of services and facilities around Murdoch.
"Murdoch has been a great help in the transition process with the international student orientation and related activities.
"The staff, whether locally or internationally born, are always very friendly and patient to everyone."
When asked about her favourite moment at Murdoch, Chantal struggled to pick just one.
"My favourite moments at Murdoch include all the times I get to sit in Bush Court, around Club Murdoch or the vet pergola during the good days, or browsing around during Market Daze."
Occurring every Thursday at Murdoch's South Street campus, Market Daze features a wide range market stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to clothing and accessories, jewellery, collectables, candles, cacti, stationary and more.
"Surprisingly, the best part about studying in Murdoch is the opportunities I get here. From volunteering in various events organised by the vet school, Student Guild and various associations to leading two associations - I'm the president for Murdoch Malaysian Association and Murdoch Association for Companion Exotics. I've made tons of friends from networking within and outside Murdoch."
Life beyond Murdoch
When it comes to pursing a job after Murdoch, Chantal is still unsure of what path she'll take.
"Murdoch and the vet school in general have shown me paths I don’t want to follow, but I see this as a good thing. Just like options of elimination. Saying that, I do have thoughts of what I might want to do in the future with the other things that I experienced in and outside Murdoch, but I’m not so sure yet.
"I want to use my study to strive for a change or difference as a Malaysian. I guess I’m still discovering myself and to obtain that opportunity to do something great!"
Thanks to Murdoch's veterinary course being the first in Australia (and the second in the southern hemisphere) to become accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC) and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), graduates are qualified to register immediately and practice as a veterinarian in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Singapore, Malaysia, North America and more, meaning Chantal's options for the future are wide open.
When it comes to recommending Murdoch to fellow international students, Chantal is confident in her endorsement.
"For sure! I've been to other universities in Perth and Murdoch gives the most friendly and welcoming vibe. I also really like the proportion of local to international people here.
"I’d say live your life to the happiest while you’re here and embrace everything that’s around you!"
